Money is starting to roll in for the Bert Church Live Theatre expansion project, which is expected to start sometime in the new year.
On Dec. 14, MP Blake Richards announced the federal government will provide half a million dollars to help renovate Airdrie’s theatre, located in Bert Church High School on East Lake Boulevard.
Richards made the formal announcement at City Hall just after 5:30 p.m.
“I’m proud to make this investment,” said Richards to the community members, local politicians and handful of media present.
The $500,000 will be provided through the Canadian Heritage department’s Canadian Cultural Spaces Fund, which was created to increase access to performing arts, visual arts, media arts, museum collections and heritage displays.
“This money will allow the arts and culture of the community to grow and thrive,” Richards added.
The announcement came days before Airdrie City council approved $3.3 million in the capital budget earmarked for the expansion, Dec. 17.
“Airdrie is a vibrant and growing community,” said Deputy Mayor Ron Chapman, who was on hand to accept the cheque from Richards. “Council is committed to supporting the arts in Airdrie.… We are fortunate to be home to the Bert Church Live Theatre,” he said.
The 7,500-square-foot expansion will include construction of a new lobby, ticket office, dressing rooms and a rehearsal space as well as a new stage and the installation of a new lighting system and seating.
Denis Tinkler, theatre manager, he said the announcement was wonderful news.
“The funding is going to enhance services we provide to the community and support the world-renown entertainment and space we provide to our users,” he said.
He said the theatre is a user-based facility and this project will enhance the services for people using the space.
This is the theatre’s 24th season.
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