Government invests in theatre upgrades to improve performance and visitor experience

Atlantic Canada’s rich offering of arts and culture experiences is a key driver of tourism across the region, attracting thousands of visitors before the pandemic. That is why the Government of Canada is investing to help Harbourfront Theatre in Summerside modernize its facility, as the tourism industry moves through recovery and beyond.

Federal Government supports tourism and the arts

Today, Bobby Morrissey, Member of Parliament for Egmont, announced a federal investment of $765,000 to the Regional Cultural Event Centre Inc. to improve visitor and performance experience at Harbourfront Theatre.  

The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA, and the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Canadian Heritage.

This contribution will allow Harbourfront Theatre to complete exterior and interior renovations, and modernize mechanical and electrical software and systems.

Investments like this one demonstrate the Government of Canada’s commitment to support local events and increase tourism across Atlantic Canada. 

Quotes

“We are committed to helping the tourism industry on its road to recovery. As tourism operators prepare to welcome visitors from home and away, investments like this one will help showcase Atlantic Canada’s unique stories, cultural experiences, arts, and entertainment.”
– The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA

“The Government of Canada is proud to support local cultural spaces such as the Harbourfront Theatre, which has been a premier venue for showcasing the region’s cultural and creative talent for 25 years. This funding will ensure that Summerside, as well as all of Prince Edward Island and its visitors, will continue to enjoy memorable, safe and enjoyable experiences.”
– The Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Canadian Heritage

“As Summerside’s tourism operators begin to build back their services and attractions, I want to acknowledge their resilience and creativity.  Today’s announcement for Harbourfront Theatre acknowledges the hard work and dedication to enhance our province’s world-class tourism industry. Our communities will come out stronger than ever before.”
– Bobby Morrissey, Member of Parliament for Egmont 

“This funding is crucial for Harbourfront Theatre. The building is showing its age and equipment upgrades are becoming vital. It was really coming down to ‘How are we going to be here 25 years from now? How are we going to continue to offer the same high-quality experience for our guests, performers, staff, volunteers, and crews?’ What better way to emerge from a pandemic than celebrating our 25th anniversary with this investment in our theatre’s future.”
– Kieran Keller, Executive Director, Harbourfront Theatre

Quick facts

• Harbourfront Theatre is a 520-seat venue and multipurpose performance space which has been in operation since 1996.  
• The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) provided a non-repayable  contribution of $352,000 through the Innovative Communities Fund (ICF).
• Canadian Heritage provided a non-repayable contribution of $413,000 through the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund.