A New Era for the Arts in Maple Ridge

Maple Ridge is now home to a new cultural facility. On May 17 and 18, 2003, the growing communities of Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows, BC celebrated the grand opening of the Arts and Theatre Centre (ACT).

Grand opening of the Arts and Theatre Centre, Maple Ridge, B.C.

The opening events featured a public ribbon cutting and a gala evening with live entertainment from the Uzume Taiko Drummers, Ballet BC, Robert Silverman, Safa, Fiona Blackburn, and a number of local performers. Located in Maple Ridge, the ACT features a 500 seat professional theatre, in addition to a 150 seat studio theatre, art gallery, three art studios, and conference rooms. The Department of Canadian Heritage is proud to support the ACT's purchase of specialized theatre equipment systems. This equipment will allow the ACT to continue to attract professional performers and enhance the arts experience for its audiences.

"By allowing people from here to discover different aspects of our culture and to have access to high caliber shows, the Maple Ridge's Arts Centre and Theatre will enrich the life of your communities," said Minister of Canadian Heritage Sheila Copps.

The ACT will play an important role in the development of Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows. The two communities, with a combined population of 75,000, will now have access to a well-equipped arts facility. It will serve local theatre and music groups, arts program participants, local artists, visiting performers and artists, arts presenters, and a wide variety of audiences within the region.