Government of Canada Announces Funding for the Vic Juba Community Theatre
LLOYDMINSTER, January 25, 2003 -- Senator Tommy Banks, on behalf of Minister of Canadian Heritage Sheila Copps, today announced funding of $120,000 for the Lloydminster Regional Theatre Foundation to help complete the Vic Juba Community Theatre in the City of Lloydminster."I am pleased to announce this funding to complete this major cultural resource centre in our region: the largest and best-equipped theatre between Saskatoon and Edmonton," said Senator Banks. "The new theatre allows everyone in this area greater access to the performing arts."
The Vic Juba Community Theatre, which officially opened in March 2002, includes a multi-purpose theatre which can accommodate music, theatre, and dance productions. The new complex boasts seating capacity for 550 patrons and a 2500-square-foot reception area. The theatre is attached to Lakeland College and shares its cafeteria, administration area, heating system, and parking facilities. The impact of the new complex is significant for the area; the city has been trying to build a local theatre facility since 1985.
The facility will be used to stage performances by local arts presenters like the Lloydminster Music Festival, Black Box Theatre, Lloydminister Little Theatre, and various community dance companies. The Theatre is also planning to establish its own theatre school.
Financial assistance is provided by the Department of Canadian Heritage through the Cultural Spaces Canada program and the Arts Presentation Canada program. These two programs are part of a $568-million investment in the arts and culture, announced by the Prime Minister of Canada and the Minister of Canadian Heritage, on May 2, 2001.
Funding for this project was provided for in the December 2001 federal budget and is therefore built into the existing fiscal framework.
Information:
Sonya-Kim St-Julien
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
(819) 997-7788
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