Courtenay's Old Church Theatre will now be known under a new name: The Regier Theatre 鈥� Home of the Arts.
Courtenay鈥檚 Old Church Theatre Society have recently announced the re-naming of their iconic building in homage to Beryl and Gene Regier. Gene, who passed away in 2010, was a respected teacher, loving father and grandfather, and tireless advocate for the theatre. He spearheaded the Society, oversaw the purchase of the building, His oversight and leadership in the renovation process transformed the building to what it is today.
Located downtown, the building was designed by a local architect William Hagarty. The ivy covered, steep roof and steeple are recognizable features of this building that was built in 1938.
As a measure to preserve the church from demolition, a society was formed to purchase the building from the Catholic church and create an intimate venue for people to enjoy theatre, music, as well as community gatherings and special events.
Beryl Regier has made a massive contribution to the musical theatre in the Comox Valley. Her tireless leadership to the Theatre as well as her performance group CoVal Choristers found her playing the role of director, technical director, set designer, teacher, mentor and arts administrator.
The Regiers both dedicated a lifetime to this beloved building, instrumental in the founding of the Society in 1992, the purchase of the building, and the renovations needed to create a functioning theatre. They both contributed and immense amount of love and energy to both the Theatre and to the arts within the Comox Valley and are pioneers of the arts here on Vancouver Island.
Innumerable people have attended events at the theatre, shared laughs and tears, companionship and community.
"We are proud to recognize Beryl and Gene Regier and their contribution to keeping this jewel of the Comox Valley, The Regier Theatre 鈥� Home of the Arts, alive and prospering towards the future," a release from the Old Church Theatre Society.
