PROVINCE PLEDGES $533,000 TO GLOBE THEATRE RENOVATION

The Globe Theatre will be receiving $533,000 from the Government of Saskatchewan to help fund a major renovation to the historic Prince Edward Building on the Frederick W. Hill Mall in downtown Regina.

Over the past seven years, attendance at main stage productions at the Globe Theatre has doubled from 30,000 in 1997-98 to 60,000 in 2004-05. Increased attendance has resulted in larger operating budgets and staff complement.

"The Globe Theatre has seen tremendous growth within the past few years and its space needs to grow with it to sustain its success," Culture, Youth and Recreation Minister Joan Beatty said. "Saskatchewan's arts community supports economic growth through the development of a strong social fabric. By supporting the arts, we help attract people to our province and sustain an excellent quality of life that makes people proud to call Saskatchewan home."

"The renovations and expansion to the historic Prince Edward Building have created one of the finest performing arts facilities in Canada, a wonderful space for artists and audiences to come together to enjoy live theatre," Globe Theatre Artistic Director Ruth Smillie said. "With the Province's generous support, the theatre has completed a significant capital project that strengthens our presence as a cultural anchor in Regina's downtown and as the pre-eminent performing arts organization in the province of Saskatchewan."

Renovations to the heritage building include an expansion to the production shops and administration offices, increasing the size of the women's washroom facilities, upgrading the elevator and bringing the building into full compliance with building code requirements and fire and safety regulations.

Provincial funding accounts for approximately one-third of the renovation's total cost of $1.59 million. The department of Canadian Heritage and the City of Regina have also made funding contributions.

"The Globe Theatre was our province's first professional theatre company and it is fitting that we have an opportunity to support its continued success as we celebrate Saskatchewan's centennial," Beatty said.

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For More Information, Contact:

Shelley Fayant Culture, Youth and Recreation Regina Phone: (306) 787-2047

Ruth Smillie Globe Theatre Regina Phone: (306) 525-9553