The Government of Canada invests nearly half a million dollars in the Neptune Theatre
HALIFAX, Jan. 17, 2018 /CNW/ - Andy Fillmore, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Democratic Institutions and Member of Parliament (Halifax), today announced funding of $499,978 for upgrades to the Neptune Theatre. Mr. Fillmore made this announcement on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage.
With this investment, the Neptune Theatre Foundation will carry out technical and general enhancements to Neptune's Fountain Hall Theatre (main stage), as well as improvements in customer service.
This support is being provided through the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage. In Budget 2016, the Government of Canada dedicated $168.2 million to the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund over two years. Budget 2017 provided an additional $300 million for the fund over 10 years.
Quotes
"Our government is proud to support arts and culture by investing in high-calibre cultural spaces such as the Neptune Theatre. Audiences can enjoy the work of professional artists in facilities that meet industry standards and also contribute to the quality of life in communities all across Canada."
—The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage
"I am delighted that our government is supporting upgrades to the Neptune Theatre, which has been a significant feature of Halifax's cultural infrastructure since the early 1960s. This well-loved theatre offers Nova Scotians and visitors a variety of professional theatre presentations, while contributing to local economic activity."
—Andy Fillmore, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Democratic Institutions and Member of Parliament (Halifax)
"Advice and investments from the Department of Canadian Heritage have helped Neptune Theatre plan and make smart decisions about its infrastructure and technology requirements. This investment will enhance the experience of visitors to the theatre and better position Neptune to respond to the needs of the community and long-term sustainability."
—Rebecca Hiltz LeBlanc, President of the Neptune Theatre Foundation
Quick facts
The Neptune Theatre, which staged its first show in 1963, is the largest production theatre in Atlantic Canada.
The Neptune, a registered charity, is owned and operated by the Neptune Theatre Foundation and is run as a not-for-profit society.
The upgrades made possible through this funding will help fully integrate the new specialized light and sound equipment that Neptune purchased thanks to earlier support from the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund.
Some of the main upgrades will include modernizing the stage area, upgrading the box office capacity, and installing a new heating and ventilation system.
The Canada Cultural Spaces Fund plays a key role in improving physical conditions for artistic creativity and arts presentation or exhibition. It is also designed to increase access for Canadians to performing, visual and media arts, and to museum collections and heritage displays.
Associated links
SOURCE Canadian Heritage
For further information: (media only), please contact: Simon Ross, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage, 819-997-7788; Media Relations, Canadian Heritage, 819-994-9101, 1-866-569-6155, [email protected]
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