The committee for the Glenboro Gaiety Theatre has been fundraising to upgrade their lobby in keeping with COVID regulations and guidelines.  The new guidelines have created their own set of challenges for the theatre.  This renovation project comes at a critical time for the community, shares committee members.

Committee secretary and Council representative, Leanne Gates, says the renovations will make the theatre more Covid-friendly and have better lighting and indoor traffic flow.

“Since COVID-19 has been a part of our life, we have had to shut down completely since April 2020,” said Gates. “That has been a huge financial burden with respect to loss of revenue. To reopen, we have to comply with public health guidelines and the layout of our lobby currently does not allow that.”

Gates says this loss in revenue has impacted them significantly, even in just trying to maintain the building.  “We’re a non-profit organization so it’s nice to have a little extra funding for capital investments in the building and the equipment we use,” she explains, “and none of that is happening.”

“We run a neutral budget as it is but there’s just no extra income for maintaining this asset, like looking ahead at the building’s expenses like replacing the water heater, things like that.  Being open gives you some profitability to help invest in the future.”  

The committee is taking the opportunity of the current theatre closure to fundraise and get started on the renovations, so that when health restrictions are lifted, they are ready to open.

The Glenboro Gaiety Theatre has been in operation for 80 years, opening its doors to the public back in 1941.  “It is an integral part of the social fabric of our community,” she adds.  “Having a local theatre to offer a movie on a rainy day or just to get out of the sun is win-win for the province and our municipality!”

The project is estimated at close to $30,000.  Thus far they have raised $5,300 with an additional $250 received recently from Westoba Credit Union.

“So right now we’re trying to get enough funds to go ahead with the project,” she explains.  “We do have a price and a contractor and so we’re just trying to get all of our ducks in a row right now.”

Carberry & Glenboro Westoba Branch Manager, Marie Bodnarchuk awards $500 to the Glenboro Community Playground Executive Members (submitted by Westoba Credit Union)

The Glenboro Community Primary Playground also received funding from Westoba Credit Union.  The $500 will be used to help replace old and unsafe playground equipment and to develop a small playground in the existing park area.

“Investing in our community is a priority for Westoba,” said Marie Bodnarchuk, Carberry & Glenboro Westoba Branch Manager. “We see so much value in both community facilities. Our staff is proud to support the work of these volunteers.