Innovation, Trade and Rural Development
Tourism, Culture and Recreation
November 2, 2009
Rising Tide to Enhance Theatrical
Production with Provincial Government Support
The Rising Tide Theatre Association, a
mainstay of professional theatre and the province�s
tourism industry, is undertaking steps to modernize its
facilities in Trinity with a $77,000 investment from the
Provincial Government. The renovations will enable
the theatre company to improve the theatrical experience
for audiences and its ability to attract visitors to the
area.
"For more than 30 years, Rising Tide
has entertained audiences from around the globe and
emerged as a significant attraction for the province�s
residents and visitors alike," said the Honourable Shawn
Skinner, Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural
Development. "Its success has additionally
resulted in benefits for local businesses from increased
traffic to the area. This investment will enable
the theatre company to advance its marketing efforts,
improve the experience for audiences, and ultimately
increase visitor traffic."
The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister
of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, said the support is
in addition to the $70,000 in operational funding
provided this year through the Cultural Economic
Development Program (CEDP).
"Each year Rising Tide promotes and
celebrates our culture, while providing emerging and
established artists with an opportunity to develop their
craft," said Minister Jackman. "Through engaging,
entertaining theatre � and a wealth of talent, skills
and creativity � Rising Tide captures the essence of
Newfoundland and Labrador and shares it with its
audiences."
Facility upgrades include renovations
to the interior and exterior of the main theatre
building, improved seating and lighting systems, along
with a new building for storage and construction.
The association is also launching new marketing
activities such as redesigning its website with
e-commerce capability and developing a marketing
strategy.
"This support is critical to our
continued sustainability and growth as both an artistic
and economic engine," said Donna Butt,
Artistic/Executive Director, Rising Tide Theatre
Association. "It enables us to showcase our province and
its rich history and culture to the world and to our
fellow Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. We are deeply
appreciative of the faith and trust placed in us."
Rising Tide Theatre is a theatrical
organization that creates and presents a variety of
theatrical presentations throughout the province, with a
major focus on the Trinity Bight region. It is operated
by the Rising Tide Association, a non-profit
incorporated organization that is made up of a nine
member board of directors.
"Rising Tide Theatre attracts over
20,000 visitors to the Trinity Bight region each year,"
said the Honourable Ross Wiseman, MHA, Trinity North.
"The Provincial Government�s commitment to its continued
growth marks an important step in the sustainability of
a local industry that has a significant impact on the
region�s tourism sector."
This initiative was funded through the
Regional/Sectoral Diversification Fund (RSDF), which
through Budget 2009: Building on Our Strong
Foundation was increased to an $8 million fund.
Administered by the Department of Innovation, Trade and
Rural Development, the RSDF provides non-repayable
contributions to economic development agencies for
initiatives that address regional and sectoral
development and diversification.
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