Edmonton, AB – Today, the Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Public Works and Government Services, Minister for Status of Women and Member of Parliament (Edmonton–Spruce Grove), accompanied by the Honourable Laurie Hawn, PC, CD, Member of Parliament (Edmonton Centre), on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, announced an investment from the Government of Canada in the Edmonton Opera Association. This investment will support renovations and infrastructure improvements to the organization’s new production facility.
“I am very pleased to be a part of this important investment in our local arts scene. This funding comes at a fitting time, as the Edmonton Opera Association celebrates its 50th season this year. This organization has been an important aspect of arts and culture in Edmonton, and our Government is happy to be a partner in its continued success,” said MP Laurie Hawn.
Funding will allow the Edmonton Opera Association to renovate a 22,500-square-foot warehouse in northwest Edmonton for use as a new, consolidated production centre. The facility will provide space to create and store sets, as well as props and costumes. It will also house the Opera’s artistic and production staff and will be available for use by other theatre organizations in the Alberta Capital Region.
“Funding such as this shows our Government’s commitment to the arts and community building, and will allow this organization to improve its facilities to ensure they continue to provide excellent artistic experiences for Edmontonians,” said MP Hawn.
“We are thrilled the Government of Canada is investing in arts and culture by supporting our new production facility,” said Sandra Gajic, Chief Executive Officer, Edmonton Opera. “This facility allows us not only adequate storage and set and costume build space, but the opportunity to be active in our community, as an employer of numerous trades and a strong member of the arts and culture scene in Edmonton.”
The Edmonton Opera, founded in 1963 as the Edmonton Professional Opera Association, will celebrate its 50th anniversary this year. The company predominantly serves audiences in central and northern Alberta, Saskatchewan, and northeastern British Columbia, with close to 18,000 patrons enjoying its main stage productions each year.
“Personally, as a frequent patron of the Edmonton Opera, I can attest to the high quality performances they produce, as well as the success they have in promoting all aspects of arts and culture in Edmonton,” concluded MP Hawn.
The Government of Canada has provided $450,000 through the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program seeks to improve physical conditions for artistic creativity and arts presentations or exhibitions. It is also designed to increase access for Canadians to performing arts, visual arts, media arts, museum collections, and heritage displays.