Changes underway in auditorium

The University Centre Farquhar Auditorium has been welcoming audiences for 25 years, but this summer its doors are closed while the facility undergoes a much-needed refit.

In a project that was in the planning stages for two years, the auditorium will receive a major acoustical upgrade as well as seismic improvements and new curtains by Victoria artist Carol Sabiston to replace those she created for the facility a quarter-century ago.

"The auditorium won't look noticeably different, but the audience will notice an improvement in the sound quality once this project is completed toward the end of August," says Martin Segger, the auditorium's director.

This summer's improvements are the first of many in store for the auditorium. A multi-year upgrade will eventually result in a range of technical modernizations, new seats, carpeting and additional special access seating.

Original facility architect Terry Williams, who designed the University Centre, is overseeing this summer's renovation — the first major refit of the facility since it was built in 1978.