In the heart of Saint John, the Imperial Theatre has been bringing people together for more than 100 years. Built in 1913, this beautiful building is part of the city’s history and a space where people gather for music, plays and celebrations.
While the stage lights kept shining, the behind-the-scenes systems were starting to show their age. The building was difficult to heat and cool, the air quality was a challenge, and energy costs were on the rise. The theatre needed an update that would protect its history and prepare it for the future.
That’s when they turned to SaveEnergyNB.
A Theatre for the Whole Community
The Imperial Theatre is more than just a performance space. It’s a non-profit organization that works to make the arts welcoming and accessible. It hosts shows by local groups, touring artists and school programs. Staff, performers and audiences all share the space.
“We want this building to be a safe, comfortable place for everyone,” says Angela Campbell, the theatre’s Executive Director. “That means taking care of it, and finding better ways to run it.”
A Big Footprint, and a Big Opportunity
Angela says the arts sector often gets overlooked when people think about the environment. But it leaves a mark.
“People don’t always realize it,” she explains, “but touring shows leave a footprint. Artists fly in, trucks bring equipment and we use a lot of power for lights and sound.”
Getting Started with an Energy Audit
The Imperial team began with an energy audit. This is like a check-up for the building. It showed where energy was being wasted and what upgrades would help most.
“The audit helped us focus,” says Campbell. “It gave us a clear plan, made us eligible for funding and helped us apply for rebates.”
Making Smart Upgrades
With help from SaveEnergyNB and a federal grant, the Imperial Theatre made several big changes:
Comfort for Everyone
“We used to get complaints that it was too hot or too cold in the theatre,” Campbell says. “Now, we don’t hear a thing. That tells us it’s working.”
Before the upgrades, the dressing rooms were often too hot, especially during performances with big casts. “We had groups like school choirs or dance troupes backstage, and it would get really uncomfortable,” she says. “Now, those spaces are cool and much easier to work in.”
The theatre also upgraded the ventilation system which has improved air quality. This helps keep staff, performers and audiences healthier - especially during cold and flu season.
“It’s made a huge difference,” Campbell says.
Saving Energy and Reducing Emissions
After just two months, the theatre already saw a 33% drop in greenhouse gas emissions. That means the building is now cleaner, greener and less expensive to operate.
Support Along the Way
Throughout the process, SaveEnergyNB’s support was key. “They were easy to work with, responsive and helped us navigate a complex process,” Campbell explains. “We’re not HVAC experts. But with their guidance, we didn’t have to be.”
Having one point of contact, a streamlined claims process, and clear benchmarks made managing the project ,and reporting to public funders, far more manageable.
Advice for Other Organizations
Campbell encourages other groups to take that first step even if the project feels big.
“Start with an audit,” she says. “You don’t have to do it all at once. Just learn what’s possible and take it from there. There’s help out there and it’s worth it.”
Planning for the Next 100 Years
The Imperial Theatre is a special place. Saved by the community in the 1980s, it’s now stronger than ever, and ready for the future.
“This building belongs to everyone,” Campbell says. “We want to take good care of it and leave it even better than we found it.”
Thanks to smart planning and support from SaveEnergyNB, the Imperial Theatre is now more comfortable, more energy-efficient and more welcoming for the Saint John community today, and generations to come.
