Provincial funding bolsters Souris theatre upgrades

SOURIS, P.E.I. — It’s on with the show for some planned upgrades to the Souris Show Hall, after an injection of provincial money.

In a July 16 release, the P.E.I. Department of Fisheries and Communities said the centuryold community theatre may be revived as a community or cultural centre with its support.

Through funding from P.E.I.’s Rural Growth Initiative, the Souris Show Hall Foundation Ltd., which is the non-profit that operates the hall, received $21,500.

The release said $9,000 of that money will support an upgrade to the hall lobby, and $12,500 will subsidize potential extension into the nearby Leard Building – another historical property.

“We are very pleased to support the Souris Show Hall to help them prepare for their 2021 season,” said Fisheries and Communities Minister Jamie Fox.

“Theatre spaces play an important role in the economy and in community life. I think many people will be glad to see the theatre return to activity as we continue to relax COVID19 public health measures.”

The release said a renovated hall will allow for year-round performances in the community.

If incorporated into the plans for the hall, the Leard Building would include office spaces, a gallery, café and community and retail spaces, noted the release.

“The plan ideally would be to see these areas become a local cultural centre,” said Katharine Roney, Souris Show Hall Foundation chair, adding she knows musicians who praised the acoustics of the hall.

“There’s a great deal of musical talent and artistic activity in the community and a lot of interest in the hall as a place to see music and theatre.”