Weekly shows part of the plans for former Movie Palace
It used to be the place to go to see a movie.
Now they’re hoping the Old Mountain Theatre on Concession Street will be the place to see live music.
“We’re going to bring in the biggest acts we can,” said Bobby Hebert, a 50-year veteran of the Hamilton music scene who recently came on board as entertainment manager at the former Movie Palace.
Live music shows will complement the Internet television business that began operations in the theatre back in November.
“Right now we’re opening the theatre and getting it started,” Hebert said. “It’s one of the best-sounding venues in southern Ontario. The acoustic design of the theatre is phenomenal.”
The first music show at the 250-seat theatre is slated for Saturday night featuring local and area performers Sue Ramsay, Mike Branton and Jerry Johnson.
See: www.newmediastar.tv for ticket information.
Hebert, who grew up in the area, recalled going to dozens of movies at the theatre as a youth.
He said their goal is to hold one or two music shows each week in the coming months with the emphasis on local talent.
“I’ve got a big contact list,” he said.
Hebert noted a two-tier stage has been installed at the venue along with new lighting, a new public address system and the dressing rooms behind the stage have been restored for use by bands and other performers.
