Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan asking for permanent venue

A long-running Saskatoon theatre festival is asking for a more permanent home for its productions.

Since 1985, Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan has been staging the bard's plays at a former snow dump site along the South Saskatchewan River.

The festival's tent has always been set up on grass located at the site. A concrete base would give the site extra stability.

Now, the festival is asking for permission to built a permanent concrete base for the main stage, as well as permanent tiered seating.

It's also asking for permission to build two pavilion buildings: one for dressing rooms for actors and one for a combination box office, gift shop and concession/bar.

In 2017, council agreed to allow the festival to use the site from May 1 to August 31 for a five-year term, with the option of another five-year renewal.

Right now, permanent buildings are not allowed on the festival grounds, as it is located on the city's flood plain. In its report, administration said the festival would have to give the city options to build outside the area.

Administration is recommending city councillors agree to a memorandum of understanding with the festival, provided the municipality and the Meewasin Valley Authority approve the final design for the site.

Councillors will debate the issue at the Standing Policy Committee on Planning, Development and Community Services on Monday morning.