After nearly four years of comedy, music and dining, Cabbagetown’s the Flying Beaver Pubaret, located at 488 Parliament St, has officially closed its doors following complications from an electrical fire in February 2015.
According to a statement made on its website July 9, Flying Beaver owners Heather Mackenzie and Maggie Cassella explained that the damage from the Feb 20 blaze appeared to be a quick fix, but extensive issues with the property halted the dinner theatre’s reopening.
“Mostly, the delay was caused due to extensive issues at the property that were not caused by or part of the fire,” the statement reads. “Nor were they our responsibility to remedy. However, they were extensive, somewhat complex, and needed to be fixed first and foremost.”
As a result, the Flying Beaver will be closed permanently. The gay-friendly establishment originally had plans to reopen shortly after the fire.
Many comics and musicians performed at the dinner theatre, including comedian Paul Bellini, singer Carole Pope, as well as the monthly psychic reading program, the Psychic Brunch.
As for the two co-owners, Cassella, a comic herself, will continue to focus on her comedy routine and web project, while Mackenzie will work in real estate. Cassella and Mackenzie declined to make a comment to Daily Xtra.
But the pair did write a note on their site thanking the Flying Beaver’s loyal staff and patrons throughout the years.
“We have been grateful to have had a loyal staff, and grateful to those of you who attended, ate, drank, performed, and sometimes even lent a helping hand,” the statement reads.
“Your kindness will be forever appreciated and not forgotten.”
Immediately following the fire on February 20, Toronto Fire Services at the scene determined the fire was caused behind a chest freezer. No foul play was suspected, and the cost of lost property was estimated at $40,000.
Why you can trust Xtra
