The wraps are off a $1.5-million rebuild of the downtown London Music Hall.

The concert venue, closed for three months for the massive renovation, is set to open its doors Monday with the its capacity to hold up to 2,000 concert-goers, more than double its former capacity.

“It needed a wow factor and this is what we gave it. People are amazed. They can’t believe it when they come in here,” said Vicki Manuel, general manager and co-owner. “It looks like a new building.”

For all intents and purposes, it is, added owner and founder Mike Manuel.

Along with a big new stage and main floor space, a second floor mezzanine now surrounds the main floor. It also features three new private boxes, more bars and exits, and an expanded green room where entertainers can relax before and after the show.

“We should be able to host even more recognized names,” said Mike Manuel. “We have been talking to a lot of promoters and agents and we send them pictures — they love the room.”

Demetri Manuel, vice-president of operations and Vicki and Mike’s son, said he believes the rebuilt music hall will draw more major acts to London.

“We can now look at B and C acts that will draw 2,000 people — it opens up a lot to us,” he said.

Although 2,000 is capacity, a curtain can be drawn around the mezzanine for smaller shows, making for a more intimate atmosphere that can handle concerts for as few as 500 people on the main floor.

It’s a big win for music lovers, but also for downtown businesses that love to see the investment and confidence in the core, said Downtown London general manager Janette MacDonald.

“If we want to be an entertainment centre, we need venues like this,” MacDonald said. “We’re happy they are getting the business that warrants this. We hope people will come for dinner and stay after the show.”

Mike Manuel agreed, saying his new space will be a game-changer that offers a mid-level option between large arenas and small clubs that will bring a new wave of entertainment to the core.

“Any project of this magnitude is positive for downtown London. We had the full support of the city. Whenever we asked for help they were there,” said Mike Manuel, who has been running businesses downtown for 30 years.

He began thinking a year ago the hall needed a new look — and that became a massive rebuild.

“It needed housekeeping and we needed to increase capacity. I said, ‘If we’re going to do this, let’s go all the way.’ ”

The main entrance remains off Queens Ave. and the parking lot just east of Richmond Row. Among the changes, an entire floor was removed.

The music hall is also looking to add other events, from fashion shows to corporate events. Two weddings are already booked for next summer.

“Anyone who wants something different from a banquet hall, this gives you the atmosphere of a trendy space, not chandeliers and waterfalls. It has an industrial look and some people like that,” Mike Manuel said.

norman.debono@sunmedia.ca

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LONDON MUSIC HALL