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Toronto’s much-loved micro-venue The Unit 102 Theatre in Parkdale has been hosting independent comedy, music, and art events for, I believe, just over two years.  Performers have ranged from the toast of Toronto’s music and comedy scenes to degenerate weirdos and the scum of the earth, lending the place a unique local flavour as both an offbeat venue and a freaky artsy fartsy clubhouse.  Up till now it’s served double duty as a theatre and residence, but that’s all changing now as managers Luis Fernandes and Liz White are moving out and the place is undergoing a major overhaul and paint job designed to take full advantage of the huge 1800 sq ft space.

Previously run entirely by Fernandes and White, the theatre is now turning over to a collective. They are still looking for members, and I highly recommend that anyone in need of a venue for performances, art shows, auditions, rehearsals, or whatever strange things you get up to, drop Luis a line and give the all-new 102 a look.

Here’s a message from Luis:

Liz and I are moving out, allowing for the space to become a full-time theatre arts studio. With us out of there, the space will double in size as half of the space will no longer be used as our living environment.

In an effort to streamline the theatre, we’ve knocked out a number of walls, so the space know seems REALLY FRICKIN’ HUGE! The space was always 1800 square feet, but only now with all the rooms taken out does it really feel like it. We are now starting to paint the place so it looks as spiffy as it feels.

With Liz and myself out, a theatre collective is forming to take on the running of the space. We are looking for 8 members to split the rent and time share studio hours. So far, six members have joined up with another two spaces still available.

That is why I send this message: If you are an artist in need of a studio space, we are currently interviewing for the remaining two spots. Essentially, the monthly cost would be $225, which would give you 52.5 studio hours (that’s $4.28/hour) and includes wireless internet and studio phone line. If you are interested, I have written up a package that explains the price breakdown and would be happy to send it out to any interested party. Just message me back!

So keep you eyes peeled after November 1st as we launch our first season as a collective. I’m sure there will be a lot of exciting work happening once our resident artists get to work! And thanks to all those people who supported this place while it was still in transition…it is because of your kindness and support we’ve gotten this far at all!

It’s a great, intimate venue and a fantastic opportunity for comedians, theatre troupes, and artists of all stripes.  For more info please visit the Facebook Group or give Luis a shout at luisfernandes397[at]hotmail[dot]com.