The Shuswap Society for the Arts and Culture has just announced the start of a facilities feasibility study for the creation of a multi-functional performing arts centre.
The society’s hope is to eventually build a facility in Salmon Arm that can serve the needs of the community for many generations to come. The building would have a 400-seat main auditorium with a 200-seat balcony and a 150-seat “Black Box” stage.
The feasibility study has been awarded to Miki Andrejevic of m.a. Arts Immensus Corp., located in St. Ives, a well-known researcher who is also the president of the Kamloops Symphony.
The first phase of the study will look at the strength of community support and produce a “case for support” white paper. Andrejevic will also be looking for possible funding opportunities.
The project will be financially self-sufficient and not rely on operational funding from the City of Salmon Arm or any ongoing grants. They plan on achieving this goal by having permanent rental space available in the building for many of the local non-profit arts, crafts and social organizations. The large capacity main theatre will attract many well-known acts that currently travel through the area seeking an auditorium that will seat at least 500 people.
The real challenge will be assessing the community’s needs for the future and anticipating an expected increase in population over the next 50-75 years.
If you want more information, have any suggestions or want to become involved in this project, please contact the society through their website, www.s-sac.com, or call Jake Jacobson at 250-832-2300.
-Submitted by Jake Jacobson.