Hamilton’s Westdale Theatre fundraising for $1.5M restoration

The Westdale Theatre could be back in business by next summer thanks to crowdfunding and local volunteers.

Graham Crawford, with the Westdale Cinema Group, said the goal is to restore the original art deco look while adding some new elements.

“We’re adding new projection equipment, new sound equipment, that you will see and you will notice,” he said. “And of course you’ll notice comfortable seats, you’ll notice an extended concession stand.”

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Crawford said the community response to the revitalitzation effort has been incredible.

“We’ve had master electricians not only say ‘I’d like to help’ but actually show up and do stuff that only a master electrician can do, legally, free of charge,” Crawford said.

According to the group behind the restoration, the Westdale was Hamilton’s first dedicated movie theatre when it opened in 1935.

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An estimated $1.5 million is needed to complete the work required, and the group is currently taking donations at Buildingmagic.ca to cover a portion of the costs.

According to the website, more than $37,000 has been raised thus far.

Once the theatre is up and running, the plan is to use the space to show independent films as well as host musicians, authors and other performances.