08/23/2026
DAVID!
I could probably write a whole book on David, the stories he tells, and all of the skills I’ve come to learn that he has.
If you’ve been in a production at the Palace, you’ve likely had David in your company. If you’ve seen a production at the Palace, then you definitely have seen David’s work come to life.
Thank you, David, for all that you do for our theatre and for our greater community. đź’™
Thank you, Old East Village BIA, for shining the spotlight on David and the Palace Theatre!
For nearly half a century, David Long has helped build more than sets at the Palace Theatre. He has helped build a lasting home for community theatre in London.
David joined London Community Players in 1976. He began as an actor, but once the group discovered his talent for building sets, his acting career quickly gave way to life behind the scenes. Since then, his dedication has become so deeply connected to the organization that the Palace Theatre’s main stage now bears his name.
Located at 710 Dundas Street, the Palace itself has a remarkable history.
Built in 1929 as a silent movie theatre, it later became home to London Community Players, which purchased the building in 1991 and opened it as a live theatre in July 1992.
Today, the Palace remains one of Old East Village’s most important cultural anchors. It presents six main-stage productions each year, along with additional performances in Procunier Hall. Its growing London Youth Theatre Education program introduces young people to acting, set building, prop making and the many skills required behind the scenes.
Keeping the theatre operating is no small task. Box office revenue, rentals, fundraising, memberships and grants all help, but dedicated volunteers remain the heart of the organization.
The Palace also faces significant challenges. Security costs alone now reach between $25,000 and $30,000 annually during performances, money that comes directly from its limited operating budget.
Yet David’s message remains simple and powerful: support local theatre.
When audiences attend the Palace, they are not only enjoying a performance, but they are also supporting local artists, volunteers, young people and a historic institution that has been enriching London for generations.
The Palace Theatre is more than a building. It is part of the story of Old East Village.
