Copper thefts an expensive headache for victims

Stuffy seats and sweaty claps are inevitable at any theatre matinee.

Add a damaged air conditioner.

"The show must go on," said Colin Foster, executive director of the Palace Theatre, which was left with up to $20,000 indamages after copper from its air conditioning unit was stolen.

Since September, the Dundas Street theatre in the Old East Village has been the victim of three thefts that left the 350-seat auditorium without air conditioning throughout its 44th season.

The external generator was broken into and disassembled to gather copper piping that could be sold for up to $100, estimated Foster.

"We're here to introduce the public to the magic of the arts and to be so incredibly derailed for such a small amount..." he said.

The theatre has taken steps to increase security so copper thefts don't happen again. The Palace had to budget $10,000 for an alarmsystem, armour meshing and video monitoring. The air conditioning unit was fixed in May.

Insurance covered a good chunk of the repair costs, but thefinancial burden is weighing heavy on the theatre's upcoming season.

"We feel so vulnerable now," said Foster.

An annual fundraiser in Aprilsaw money diverted from building maintenance into securing thebedroom-sized air conditioner. The theatre isplanning another fundraiser for next year to help offset further anticipated costs.

Copper thieves strike again

London police reported more than 50 metal and copper thefts last year, the lowest number in the last four years. So far, there have been 22 reported cases this year.

A slew of churches across the city have also felt a similar wrath.

The Metropolitan Church was struck by thieves three years ago when copper from its generators raked up $9,000 in losses. Although the church hasn't been hit since, staff installed security cameras last year to deter the possibility of another theft.

"People need money and copper is an easy way to get it," said Carol Morton, who's observed two copper thefts in the last 10 years at the church. "I don't like it but I understand it."

Many break and enters at the church involve hungry people looking for food, she said. The church offers free weekly meals, which could drivepeople to look for more, she added.

The church's public location along Wellington, across from city hall, instills a sense of comfort in Morton.

However, Foster doesn't feel the same way.

The Palace Theatre staff circles around the building regularly, anxious burglars may return.

"If it happens once it could happen again," said Foster.