Rush bassist Geddy Lee was on hand yesterday for the official rollout of the $135M revamp of Massey Hall, the legendary music venue that’s played host to Neil Young and Charlie Parker, among heaps of other big names, throughout its 120-year history. The revitalization will be done in two phases over seven years. The first, costing $32M, is underway, with the demolition of the Albert Building that stood adjacent to the south wall of Massey Hall. In its place will be built a new addition to the venue, including its first-ever loading dock, plus an enhanced backstage area and back-of-house facilities.

The project was made possible by the transfer of a 4,804 SF property along the south wall of the hall by MOD Developments and Tricon Capital Group, the firms behind Massey Tower, a 60-storey condo (seen above) under construction at 197 Yonge St. Phase 2, slated for 2019, will entail the exterior and interior restoration of the historic music hall, with space for artist and patron amenities. “Massey Hall has hosted countless memorable experiences over the years,” noted Corporation of Massey Hall and Roy Thomson Hall CEO Charles Cutts. “This revitalization will ensure it continues to do so...”