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.

- 30 -

Media contacts: