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McPherson Playhouse facts for kids

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McPherson Playhouse
The Mac
McPherson Playhouse, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada 04.jpg
Address 3 Centennial Square
Victoria, British Columbia
V8W 1P5
Coordinates 48°25′43″N 123°22′00″W / 48.42861°N 123.36667°W / 48.42861; -123.36667
Owner The Royal and McPherson Theatre Society
Type Theatre and concert hall
Capacity 772
Opened 1914

The McPherson Playhouse, often called The Mac, is a special place in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. It works as both a theatre for plays and a concert hall for music. You can find it in the Centennial Square area, right in the heart of downtown Victoria.

History of The Mac

The McPherson Playhouse has a long and interesting history.

How it Started

The building first opened its doors in 1914. Back then, it was known as a Pantages Theatre. These theatres were famous for showing different kinds of live entertainment.

A Gift to the City

Many years later, in the 1960s, a kind person named Thomas Shanks McPherson gave the theatre to the people of Victoria. He also gave money to help fix it up. This gift helped make the theatre what it is today.

Modern Updates

The theatre became part of a bigger project called the Centennial Square redevelopment. This project finished in 1965. During this time, the theatre got some big updates. Workers carefully kept the beautiful old design of the main hall. But they also added a new, modern entrance area. They also improved the sound and lighting systems.

What Happens at The Mac Today

The McPherson Playhouse is a busy place all year round.

Events and Shows

The theatre hosts many different kinds of events. You can see shows put on by professional groups. There are also performances by local community groups and amateur artists. It's a place for everyone to enjoy.

How it's Managed

The Royal and McPherson Theatres Society runs The Mac. This group also manages another big theatre in Victoria, the Royal Theatre. They make sure the theatre is available for different groups to rent and use.

Inside the Theatre

The McPherson Playhouse can hold many people. It has a total of 772 seats. Inside, you'll find a large balcony where more people can sit. There are also two sets of special small rooms called boxes. These are great spots to watch the show from.

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