Concern about lack of English-language theatre

On September 28, members of the Theatre Lac Brome non-profit corporation learned some interesting facts at our well-attended Annual General Meeting in Knowlton. Most present were concerned about the paucity of English-language theatre in our community compared to the recent past.

First, our president lives in the United States (though she does spend summers in Knowlton). Moreover, since TLB has no term limits, she and the other sitting directors can remain in charge forever. She and another director have already been there for eight years, and show every indication of staying. Other directors were elected through 62 proxy votes held and cast by the board alone, despite majority opposition in the room.

Second, the existing board apparently has a veto over any other member that may be nominated as a director. If they don’t like you, you’re not eligible. Consequently only the board’s slate of directors were nominated.

Third, MEF Muse, a musical group that performed at the theatre on September 6, apparently has not been paid.

Fourth, the board has an odd interpretation of its crystal-clear legal objects in its articles, which are:

(a) To establish and operate an English-speaking theatre in the Eastern Townships in the region of Brome County;

(b) To promote activities in relation to the theatre and performing arts in the English language.

The current board has somehow transformed this mandate into a so-called Mission Statement, namely “to present theatre and multidisciplinary shows in English and French throughout the year, featuring artists from the region, Quebec and elsewhere.” This is not what the articles say. One new director did assure the meeting that there would be English theatre in 2020, with details to come.

Fifth, TLB’S auditors, in giving a rare “qualified opinion” on the financial statements, stated: “We were not able to obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding some revenues from fundraising and tickets totalling $20,245 and some expenses totalling $239,557 for the year ended December 31, 2018.” This is because the board has not kept complete and proper records or receipts as required by law.

Sixth, the many donors who give money to TLB are no longer automatically members as in the past. So donors who were never told this, have no right to speak or vote at general meetings.

Many members feel that changes are needed. There is grave concern about the further erosion of English-language institutions in our community. Stay tuned.