Ponoka’s Klaglahachie Fine Arts Society, a musical theatre company, received a huge boost last week to the tune of $13,476.
The funds come from a Community Initiatives Program (CIP) grant.
Lacombe-Ponoka MLA Ron Orr met with society members to present a ceremonial cheque on Sept. 18 at Ponoka United Church, the stage on which this year’s production Forever Plaid will be performed.
Orr said the society is, “definitely a contributor to the value of Ponoka,” adding the creativity of the local people is well worth seeing.
Arts and culture in a town not only brings value to current residents, but enhances economic development, as many families look for those kinds of things when deciding where to live.
“Mr. Kenney is very supportive of the arts,” said Orr.
Part of the UCP’s platform in their election campaign was about promoting culture and cultural events.
Orr himself is the former critic of Culture and Tourism and helped to write that component.
The money will go a long way to funding the society’s endeavours.
Last year’s production of SUDS: The Rocking 60s Musical Soap Opera, cost about $15,000 to produce.
The theatre portion of ticket went towards licensing (22.5 per cent), advertising (28.6 per cent), building operations (33.6 per cent) and lesser percentages to sets, props, costumes, sound and lighting and programs.
Forever Plaid, a comedy about a 1960s men’s pop group, opens Nov. 23, 2019.