A Chance to Make History

Michael Grit, Theater Manager,
Richmond Hill Centre for the
Performing Arts

A true theatre fanatic, Michael Grit first experienced the theatre in public school. Little did he know that this experience would become his calling in life. He was bitten by the theatre bug and there was no escaping it.

In high school, he was invited to audition for a play. He soon began spending most of his time enjoying the theatre every chance he got – whether he was performing, producing or just taking part as an enthusiastic spectator.

His first musical role was in Cabaret – playin “the nasty, Nazi Ernst.” He remembers the first show jitters being quickly replaced with the thrill of performing live on stage. It was like nothing he had experienced before.

Although Michael took on many roles on stage his true passion was behind the scene. “I enjoyed acting and singing, but I LOVED producing. It was a way to get involved in all aspects of the theatre,” he said.

Born in Orangeville, he’s earned the title of “critic” amongst his family and friends. Over the years they have grown accustom to asking Michael for his review before deciding on any show. “They just realize my passion and they wisely tap into it,” Michael said with a chuckle.

His favourite production of all time is Blood Brothers, presented by Canstage in the Dream. “It was an incredible show. It was the most powerful and well-done production I have ever seen,” he said proudly. Ironically, admission was free, which, according to Michael, proves that the ticket price doesn’t dictate the show’s quality!

In 1981, Michael graduated from Sheridan College with a degree in Business Administration and a major in marketing. He was now a theatre junkie who was armed with the knowledge of running a successful business.

With his new found skills, Michael was now determined to run his own theatre. After graduation, he passed his days as a sales associate for an industrial filtration company and his nights as a volunteer for a community theatre.

In 1993, he landed a job as the General Manager of the Elora Festival. Five years later, he achieved his goal and became the General Manager of the Sanderson Centre in Brantford.

During his time at the Sanderson Centre Michael had grown both personally and professionally. It was time for a change – as Michael toyed with the idea of leaving the Centre, the opportunity of a life time came knocking on his door.

The Town of Richmond Hill was looking for a theatre manager to head up their most ambitious construction project in the town’s history.

In June of 2006, with his trusty sidekick Max, a 15-year-old Miniature Pinscher, by his side, he packed up his belongings and moved to Richmond Hill to take on the role as the town’s new theatre manager.

“It was a dream come true getting the job with the city. I’m going to be part of something that has never been done before in Canada,” he said with excitement.

The municipally owned theatre, Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts, will be the first in the nation to present an annual season of professional entertainment that celebrates the ethnic diversity of its community and country.

“My goal is to build relations with every community and insure that they participate in this amazing program,” he paused and continued with a smile, “and to hopefully build a successful model for future theatre projects that will develop in our nation.”

Since the groundbreaking of the theatre, on October 5, Michael has had his hands full – from booking shows to meeting with construction crews – and he loves every minute of it. He can’t wait until the gala opening.

“How many people can say their life’s greatest passion is also their full-time job?”