After seven years of putting on plays in the Ponoka, the Klaglahachie Fine Arts Society (KFAS) says it’s ready to improve their seating.
The group signed a 20-year lease with the Ponoka United Church to host productions and they have invested quite a bit of money into a proper sound and lighting system, explained Marion Raugust, KFAS treasurer.
She spoke to members of the Ponoka and District Chamber of Commerce April 15 about the group’s plans to have elevated seating to the sanctuary where plays are staged.
In 2010 KFAS registered as a non-profit society and each year 1,600 to 2,100 people are entertained because of the plays, said Raugust. “We have brought in busloads of people.”
They have seen such growth that during auditions of their most recent productions of the Sound of Music, kids had to be turned away. To meet this growing need for young thespians to act, the society started a drama club.
Raugust said they hosted a fall and a winter class and both were full. Kids from six to 12 years of age explored their creative side twice a week. “It turned out to be very popular.”
“It’s amazing the talent we’ve got in this town,” she added.
Costs for the elevated seating are estimated at $100,000 and the group has applied to both the town and county of Ponoka. KFAS is hosting Anne of Green Gables in the fall with auditions set for May 6, 8 and 13.
New play coming up
Raugust said a new play, Dry Streak, by Leeann Minogue is already in rehearsal stages and dates are set for May 23 to 25, May 30 to June 1. For more details contact KFSA at 403-783-4087.