Should Snagglepuss every play the Strand, he would have a problem.   When the mountain lion went to “Exit Stage Right”, there would be no place to go.  The chant “Heavens to Murgatroyd!” would follow.  

Strand Board Member Bob Schlick had the stage right exit on his to-do list.   This was something that had become important.  Starting in March 2009 the Strand began showing films.  Our 20′ x 30′ movie screen blocked of the upstage exits when it was in its down position.  If you wanted to get to the dressing room basement, you would have to very gently pull the screen back to pass.   It was only a matter of time before our screen was damaged. 

To prevent this, it was determined that we could open up a passage above where the existing exit was located.   After our stage extended all the way right, it blocked the auditorium level exit.    The first hurtle was to move our heating and A/C duct work.    The bottom vent was in the way of the new exit.  Bob removed 18″ of duct and re-attached the transitions.   He commented that the original installer in 1954 was a master installing the sheet metal.  He said the workmanship was outstanding.

Below is a picture of the finished duct:

Next the door opening was cut, and new stairs installed.   The work was completed and is being painted this week.  This will be a great enhancement to the functionality of our stage.    Below is Bob and his handiwork: