The curtain has fallen on efforts by the Huronia Players to construct a new theatre.

Speaking to Midland council on Aug. 18, president Susan Cook revealed the estimated price had risen to nearly double the figure initially provided by the design/build team.

“The costs were significantly more than anticipated,” she said.

With the tender for the parking lot coming in 50 per cent higher than expected, the project cost suddenly loomed at more than $1 million.

“(That is) clearly beyond our current financial capacity,” Cook stated in a letter to council, adding the developments represent “an unexpected blow to our planning.”

Huronia Players has been engaged in a $510,000 fundraising campaign to construct a new theatre adjacent to its existing facility on William Street. The current building was to have been renovated to create rehearsal and storage space, as well as to serve as part of the new entrance lobby.

“The cost of doing business does escalate,” Mayor Jim Downer told Cook. “But I know your group will pull together.”

In fact, that process has already started. Cook said Huronia Players will now focus on identifying appropriate commercial properties to renovate.

“We remain confident that we will achieve our goal of a new theatre,” she said. “We’re hunting very hard right now for a new location.”

Given the uncertainty, the group will be moving forward with a full season at the existing Studio theatre on William Street.