The Jorat Theater in Mézières (VD) needs a facelift. Estimated at 9.7 million francs, this in-depth restoration aims in particular to improve the reception of the public. A vast fundraising campaign is launched.
During a press conference on Tuesday on the premises, the chairman of the Foundation Board Christian Ramuz detailed the terms of thecall for donations public and parapublic institutions, foundations, companies and individuals. The public will be able to participate in targeted financing, for example to plant a tree or install solar panels.
“Thanks to our own funds, one million francs have already been secured. We are counting on solid support from the canton of Vaud and even from the Confederation. Ideally, it would take between five and six million from the cantonal authorities”, Christian Ramuz told Keystone. -ATS.
Work over two seasons
The Foundation Board hopes to collect some 10 million francs by autumn 2023, the date scheduled for the start of the work. “It’s not going to be easy, but I’m very optimistic,” says Christian Ramuz. The renovation of the historic theater is planned over two seasons, without altering the reception of around fifteen shows on average per year, until May 2025.
This third project follows two others that had failed, including the 2018 project that caused a stir. The Department of Monuments and Sites of the Canton of Vaud and the Federal Office of Culture (OFC) had indeed put their veto: the elimination of the internal structure of the stage cage and its refurbishment had been deemed “unsuitable ” for a listed building. A niet that had led to the resignation of the executive board of the Foundation Board.
“After nearly fifteen years of discussions, I believe that this time is the right one”, rejoices Christian Ramuz. This new version has been resized, “in strict compliance with the regulations on the protection of historic monuments” while remaining “as essential as it is ambitious”. “We have obtained the green light from the Cantonal Service for Monuments and Sites, working in partnership with them and also with the OFC”, underlines the president.
Little affected room
While the 1,000-seat hall will not be transformed, the annex located behind the stage, which includes spaces dedicated to the reception of artists, administrative services and technical services, will be completely redesigned and rebuilt. The stage cage must be brought up to current safety and practicality standards.
Major outdoor developments and the construction of a pavilion for the refreshment bar and the holding of events will improve the care of spectators and will replace the temporary installations used up to now.
ats/kkub