PERSEPHONE THEATRE GETS PROVINCIAL BOOST

Released on March 24, 2006

One of the province's major professional theatres got a significant boost today from the province with a $2.5 million capital contribution.

Thanks to the growing number of people taking in performances at Persephone Theatre in Saskatoon, it has outgrown its current facility, a renovated church. The provincial commitment will go toward the capital costs associated with a planned new facility located in the River Landing Development in the city's south downtown.

"A thriving arts community is a reflection of a strong social fabric, which in turn contributes to a strong economy," Culture, Youth and Recreation Minister Glenn Hagel said. "The province is very proud to support Persephone Theatre's continued success and the economic and social enrichment that will result from it."

"With this generous and strong support, the curtain is beginning to rise on a new Persephone Theatre for Saskatoon," Persephone Capital Campaign Chair Dr. Bill Thomlinson said. "This contribution forms one of the pillars of our capital campaign and gives us great confidence that we will meet our goals and realize our vision. The new theatre, to be built on the banks of the South Saskatchewan River, will be an attractive and convenient destination for quality performing arts and entertainment. It is a win-win for the city and the province."

The Persephone Theatre was founded in 1974 by well-known actors Janet Wright and the late Susan Wright. Since then, it has grown operationally and artistically and now encompasses an annual operating budget of over $1.2 million, a subscription base of nearly 3,000 and an annual attendance of 40,000 for its main stage and touring productions.

Persephone Theatre will officially launch its capital campaign this spring. The provincial contribution complements a $2.5 million commitment announced today by the federal government, $1 million from the City of Saskatoon and a $1 million gift from Ellen Remai on behalf of the Frank and Ellen Remai Foundation.

"It's important that facilities like Persephone Theatre keep pace with the growth we are seeing in Saskatchewan's performing arts," Hagel said. "The new theatre will be great for patrons and production teams alike, providing an excellent showcase for our province's phenomenal talent."

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For More Information, Contact:

Janet Peters Culture, Youth and Recreation Regina Phone: (306) 787-4967

Irene Seiferling Persephone Theatre Saskatoon Phone: (306) 384-2126