Funding helps kick-start school theatre project

A proposed new theatre space, which was roughed-in when the new St. Mary’s College was constructed, will be a functional space by March, says the school’s principal.

While the theatre space was roughed in during construction, the plan was to raise more than $2 million for its completion, said principal Cindy Sawyer.

“Right now it’s a shell, but it’s not considered a safe place — we can’t bring students in there,” said Sawyer.

After raising almost $1 million, along with $100,000 in federal funding announced today, work has begun on the first phase of construction.

“This first phase will put seating in there, and it will put an HVAC in there and just the regular lighting,” said Sawyer.

With bare walls, no sound system or theatre lighting, the space will be functional for school use — allowing the 500-seat space to be used for assemblies and the like.

Currently, the school uses the gymnasium for many assemblies — which Sawyer said is not ideal.

Upon completion of fundraising, construction of the second and third phases will commence, eventually making the space a community theatre.

MP Terry Sheehan announced the $100,000 funding on behalf of FedNor, from the federal government’s Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program.

Similar announcements have been made recently for projects like the Algoma Conservatory of Music, Sault College, Algoma University, the Kiwanis Community Theatre Centre and the rehabilitation of the RYTAC site, among others.

“These are great little announcements that are creating construction jobs, they are creating spaces that are making our community a better place to live, a better place to retain and attract people,” said Sheehan.

The eventual opening of the 500-seat theatre venue will be a welcome addition to the community, said Sheehan.

“And the short-term jobs are much needed,” he added.

The following is a news release issued by MP Terry Sheehan:

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The Government of Canada is investing $100,000 to assist with enhancements to the Community Theatre located at St. Mary’s College.

The funding will enable the Huron-Superior Catholic District School Board to modernize the facility and create a more conducive environment to welcome local theatre performances and learning.

Terry Sheehan, Member of Parliament for Sault Marie, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for FedNor, today announced this Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program investment.

The new mid-sized theatre will allow festivals to bring in more acts, and provide local performing groups with more space to perform and hold productions.

The Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program (CIP 150) funding, delivered in Northern Ontario through FedNor, is part of the Government of Canada’s coordinated approach to mark the 150th anniversary of Confederation.

These investments across Canada will help create jobs, boost economic activity, strengthen communities, and celebrate Canada’s rich heritage and history.

Quick facts

• Canada CIP 150 is designed to leave a lasting legacy by supporting the rehabilitation or improvement of existing community infrastructure assets and facilities across the country that promote community and cultural benefits for the public.
• FedNor is delivering this program in Northern Ontario with an allocation of $10.4 million over two years, ending March 31st, 2018.

Quotes

“The Government of Canada recognizes the importance of investing in key community assets, such as the Community Theatre at St. Mary’s College, which will provide an opportunity for residents of all ages to enjoy and participate in artistic and cultural activities.”  

- The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for FedNor

“In addition to being able to host a wide variety of celebrations to honour and celebrate Sault Ste. Marie’s cultural diversity and rich history, the venue will also be used for educational opportunities in performing arts and production technologies.”

- Terry Sheehan, Member of Parliament for Sault Ste. Marie

“I would like to thank the Government of Canada for investing in our community theatre which will serve the student body, as well as local and visiting artists and patrons. These improvements are a fitting way to celebrate Canada’s 150th anniversary.”

- John Caputo, Chair, Huron-Superior Catholic District School Board

Associated links

To find out more about our programs and services, please visit: fednor.gc.ca and follow us on Twitter @FedNor.

Follow the Minister on Twitter: @MinisterISED 

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