March 20, 2015
Manitoba Government, City of Brandon, Local Groups Support Repairs, Upgrades to Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium
– – –$380,000 for Roof Repairs, Stage Equipment Replacement
The Manitoba government, City of Brandon, the Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium Corporation and the Brandon Area Community Foundation proudly contributed $380,000 to the Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium (WCMA) for important repairs and equipment upgrades, Tourism, Culture, Heritage, Sport and Consumer Protection Minister Ron Lemieux and Mayor Rick Chrest, City of Brandon, announced today.
“This facility is a vital part of the historical and cultural fabric of Brandon and the surrounding area,” Minister Lemieux said. “We want to see it maintained and remain a top-notch facility available for the community and the groups that use it.”
The auditorium hosts a variety of performances including professional ballet, symphony orchestra, community and high school theatrical productions and cultural festivals. These renovations and improvements will help ensure the facility remains in excellent condition and will serve the community for many years to come.
“If you need proof of the importance of the Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium, just drive by it on any given night and you’ll see vehicles parked on the streets for blocks around and a steady stream of patrons in and out,” Chrest said. “We are so fortunate to have such a high calibre of performing arts facility in Brandon and we are so pleased to continue being a partner in its excellence.”
“Anyone who is involved in the cultural community in western Manitoba knows how important this facility is to the arts and arts programming,” said Franz Lehrbass, general manager, WMCA. “Investments like these ensure the WMCA will continue to host world-class events in Brandon.”
In addition to the roof repairs, the stage rigging will gradually be replaced over the next three years. The project also received support from the Brandon Area Community Foundation and the Brandon Centennial Auditorium Corporation.
“The Westman Centennial Auditorium has played and continues to play a vital role in showcasing arts and culture in Brandon,” said Phil Weiss, chair of the Brandon and Area Community Foundation. “Ensuring this facility’s long-term viability is critical as we solidify our city’s place as a hub for the arts in western Manitoba.”
“The people of Brandon know the importance of this facility,” said Municipal Government Minister Drew Caldwell, who was at the announcement on behalf of Minister Lemieux. “We continue to work together with our partners and look forward to the years of entertainment that will grace the stage and provide enjoyment for local audiences.”
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