Money for Savoy
Three levels of government to provide Glace Bay theatre with $3.5-$4 million
It will be a happy new year for the Savoy Theatre.
The Cape Breton Post has learned the Glace Bay theatre will receive $3.5-$4 million in funding from the three levels of government in early January.
“It’s a huge relief,” said Savoy manager Pam Leader, when asked how she felt about the news. “After 90 years, this building deserves some TLC right now.
“In order for the Savoy to continue to offer great entertainment it needs significant renovations both to make our actors comfortable downstairs and our audience comfortable.”
Leader said the major issue for the Savoy is heating.
“The Savoy was built in 1927, it is all wood, no insulation at all.”
Leader said the other major issue is the bathrooms.
“Getting the bathrooms upgraded Leader is huge.”
Nova Scotia Business Minister Geoff MacLellan said as a member of cabinet and MLA and someone who knows firsthand what the Savoy needs, the province has committed to funding in partnership with the other two levels of government — the municipality and the federal government.
“A funding announcement will be made in January 2018 in conjunction with our funding partners, the other two levels of government,” he said.
“The Savoy is an important institution, a historic pillar for all of us here in Glace Bay and Cape Breton.”
MacLellan said despite the numerous shows and programs at the Savoy, the building needs a significant amount of work for its survival.
“This isn’t about esthetics, this isn’t about beautification, it’s about making sure it exists for the next generation.”
From key structural pieces like the roof to the walls and other remedial work, there’s lots that has to be done, he added.
MacLellan escorted Premier Stephen McNeil on a tour of the
“This isn’t about esthetics, this isn’t about beautification, it’s about making sure it exists for the next generation.” Glace Bay MLA Geoff MacLellan
Savoy Friday to show him the inner workings of the building and to make the premier aware of its challenges.
When asked about the funding, the premier would only say the province is committed to a project at the Savoy.
“(MacLellan) wanted to make sure while I was in town I would be able to have a look.”
McNeil said this iconic building is not only important for Glace Bay but for Cape Breton Island and Nova Scotia.
“I’ve been at the Savoy before and know how important this is to the minister and his riding,” he said.
“I wanted to make sure as we continue with this project and the applications going forward that I’ll be able to see it firsthand and support him along that journey.”