December 10, 2020 · Glace Bay, Nova Scotia · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
Like most sectors, the entertainment industry has had to find creative solutions to safely operate amid the pandemic. Glace Bay's historic Savoy Theatre is among those making big changes to enable audiences to watch live performances, virtually.
Federal government supports Savoy Theatre's transformation to digital
Today, Mike Kelloway, Member of Parliament for Cape Breton - Canso, on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages, announced a non-repayable contribution of $71,163 to the Savoy Theatre Society.
The funding is enabling the Theatre to upgrade its website so it can transition its performances online, including live-streaming and offering pay-per-view events. This project will help the Savoy Theatre increase its ticket sales, rehire staff and performers, and resume its offering of live entertainment while operating under public health restrictions.
Today's announcement further demonstrates the Government of Canada's commitment to helping Canadian businesses not just survive, but thrive, in the new global reality. Projects like this one will help ensure the entertainment industry can rise up to the challenges presented by COVID-19 and get people back to work.
Quotes
"We will continue to provide support to those who need it. Creating economic opportunities for organizations to build back better is our priority. Today's announcement speaks to the diverse range of businesses we are helping to keep the economy going throughout the global COVID-19 crisis."
- The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA
"The Savoy Theatre has long been a pillar of Cape Breton's famed culture and entertainment sectors. This project will promote economic growth at a time when the community needs it the most. Moving performances online will bring Cape Breton talent and traditions to audiences here at home and away, offering a brief escape from reality and some holiday cheer."
- Mike Kelloway, Member of Parliament for Cape Breton - Canso
"The Savoy is known as Cape Breton's entertainment showplace and has always been able to roll with the climate of the world. It has withstood wars and pandemics before and we will adapt, persevere and rise to the challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic as well. This project will help us keep people employed and keep the Savoy relevant."
- Pam Leader, Executive Director, The Savoy Theatre
Quick facts
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December is the Savoy Theatre's busiest time of year, typically selling out all 760 seats per show.
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In November, the Savoy Theatre brought back all five full-time employees, including box office and tech staff, who have been laid-off since March.
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December 12 will mark its opening day of a series of online events.
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Established in 1927, the Savoy Theatre is one of Cape Breton's most popular and iconic entertainment venues.
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The funding announced today is provided through ACOA's Business Development Program (BDP) program, which helps businesses adopt innovative technologies that support scale-up, productivity and competitiveness.
