November 24, 2011 – The Bloor Cinema renovation is steadily underway as the project begins its second phase.

“We are excited to be entering this stage of the renovation process and working alongside Blue Ice Group, bringing our vision for the cinema to life,” says Chris McDonald, executive director of Hot Docs. “It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity and we’re taking the necessary time to properly renovate this treasured landmark.”

The project, led by Hariri Pontarini Architects, will enhance the century-old cinema’s atmosphere while still respecting its grandeur and architectural details. Inspired by previous incarnations of the cinema, the expanded lobby will feature a large transparent wall that will enable open views from the street directly into the auditorium, much as when the building first opened as a vaudeville theatre in 1905. Furthermore, commemorating the cinema’s façade in the 1940s when it was known as the Midtown, the refurbished marquee will boast a large vertical sign rising along the front of the building.

Additional improvements include new plush seating, expanded washroom facilities, a larger screen, and state-of-the-art projection and sound equipment.

Launching in 2012, the newly christened Bloor Hot Docs Cinema will host a series of opening events including special open house screenings for the public. Details on the opening will be announced in January.