Two NorthIsle arts organizations are getting a big boost from the provincial budget this year. The funding is coming from the Arts Infrastructure Program that gives money to organizations to upgrade their buildings and equipment.
For a long time, that kind of money went to big companies in big cities. But the BC Arts Council that guides how the money gets spent wanted to do more to fund diversity and reconciliation.
So 50% of this year’s funding is going to organizations in smaller, more remote communities. Like the BC Movement Arts Society in Sointula and Gate House Theatre in Port McNeill.
The BC Movement Arts Society got started just as the pandemic hit. But the group is resilient. And now they’re featuring talented dancers from right here at home. And they bring in dancers from all over the world.
The Gate House Theatre hosts everything from plays to concert nights to music festivals. And they want to build a bandstand in Port McNeill to host even more outdoor events.
These types of arts organizations are mighty. They’re a huge part of life in small places.
And maybe next time you see a show, they will have gotten a bit of an upgrade!
