Plans to rebuild Roxy Theatre underway as investigation continues

As the investigation continues into what caused the fire that torched the historic Roxy Theatre, the community has already begun planning to resurrect thebuilding.

Crews were called early Tuesday morning to find smoke billowing from the theatre. About 50 firefighters worked to contain the fire, but were unable to save the building.

The fire was not declared officially out until 7 p.m.

A spokesperson with Fire and Rescue says the investigation into what happened is ongoing.

• Roxy Theatre gutted by 'tough old fire'
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Board members for Theatre Network, which owned and operated the Roxy, held an emergency meeting Tuesday night to discuss options.

Artistic Director Bradley Moss said the first priority will be to find a new temporary office space something they may have in place by the end of Wednesday.

And when it comes to rebuilding the theatre itself, Moss said hopes are high the theatre can return to its original location on 124th Street near 107th Avenue.

We rebuild or we reinvent ourselves and go to a new home somewhere or just become a renter but we sure as heck like who we are and what we do and we like being an owner-operator of a theatre and like to keep things status quo and get back on our feet, Moss said.

Moss said the Roxy Theatre building was insured, but does not yet know if the coverage will provide enough money to cover a complete rebuild.

Theatre Network will be going ahead with its annual spring fundraiser this year, and is also accepting donations from the public.

On Wednesday morning, CBC's Mark Connolly spoke withScott Rollans, a former Roxyusher, about his memories of the theatre.

• On mobile? Listen to the full interview here