ROCK HILL, S.C. – Winthrop University’s Johnson Theatre was damaged by a fire Oct. 26. Students and faculty had to evacuate the building and classes were also canceled.
Officials say the fire, which started at approximately at 8:30 a.m. on the main stage, was caused by electrical lighting equipment at the back of the stage. A stage curtain covered the lights, which started the fire. A student in the auditorium saw the smoke and immediately informed authorities.
No one was injured in the fire.
Officials maintain that the flames did not cause much harm; however, damage was caused to the theatre by heavy smoke and water from fire hoses. Repairs could cost as much as $50,000. The replacement and repairs of the lighting system, curtains and stage could take several weeks, officials said.
Classes in Johnson Hall, where Johnson Theatre is located, were canceled the day of the fire but commenced the Oct. 29.
Students were preparing for the opening show of the play “Dead Men Walking” to take place Oct. 30. Officials had not determined whether the show was going to be moved to another location on the campus.
