Bushplane Heritage Centre throttles forward

The Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre will be getting a new multimedia theatre show, thanks to a half-million dollar FedNor grant.

The money won't go directly to the Sault museum, however.

It will go to Science North in Sudbury, which will work with the bushplane centre to create two versions of the theatre experience - one for the Sault and one for Sudbury.

The productions will use multiple video screens and special effects to depict the history of the bushplane in Northern Ontario.

The FedNor funding was announced yesterday by Sault MP Carmen Provenzano (shown).

The following is the official announcement from FedNor:

**************************************************************** FedNor provides support for new attraction at Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre SAULT STE. MARIE, Ontario - Sault Ste. Marie MP Carmen Provenzano is pleased to announce, on behalf of the Honourable Andy Mitchell, Secretary of State (Rural Development) (FedNor), FedNor funding of $500,000 to Sudbury’s Science North to create an object theatre experience, in collaboration with the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre, featuring the bushplane and its role in the development of Northern Ontario.

"This project will lead to economic development in the form of additional jobs in Sault Ste. Marie and Sudbury," says Mr. Provenzano.

"Development of the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre as a major tourism attraction is specifically highlighted as a priority item in our city’s economic diversification strategy." The multimedia object theatre experience will profile the bushplane and its history in Northern Ontario.

An object theatre is a highly effective entertaining experience that incorporates special effects, multiple video screens, and venue-appropriate objects into a theme environment.

Two versions of the theatre show, one for each centre, will be created.

The shows will include the same central elements and messages, but will be staged differently to take advantage of the distinct spaces available, and the diverse characteristics of the two venues.

"The Government of Canada is committed to supporting community-based tourism initiatives that help develop Northern Ontario's economy," says Mr. Mitchell.

"Investments in tourist venues and events pay off many times over by attracting an increased number of visitors."

FedNor funding will assist with costs of production, post production, non-film components, translation, a Science North non-film component, and installation. "With FedNor's support and Science North's expertise, we will be able to provide an even more exciting and educational visitor experience," says Dave Blair, President and Chair of the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre.

"We certainly couldn't have done this alone."

FedNor works in partnership with Northern Ontario businesses, economic development stakeholders and key tourism partners to ensure Northerners enjoy full access to the information and services they require to be successful. By supporting Science North through its programs and services, FedNor is opening doors and building futures for a prosperous Northern Ontario.

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