Cultural Scan Creates Community Legacy

A simple municipal audit has transformed a town’s arts community and provided a theatrical legacy for future generations. With a $4,245 grant from Creative Communities, the Town of Princeton conducted an audit of its arts and cultural assets. Results unearthed a bounty of previously untapped theatrical skill and desire. Harnessing this creativity, interested residents learned the elements of theatre operation and management, including the artistic and technical aspects of running a production. The resulting Princeton Performing Arts Society is the town’s new, fully-functioning performing arts theatre.

In addition, the arts group now has a home. The old town school, which had been converted into a wellness centre, had no need for the attached auditorium. The facility was deemed an ideal location for the society, which has since built a stage for its community productions. In the past year, the Princeton Performing Arts Society has presented a number of shows for family audiences. With productions catering to local residents, as well as theatre classes for people of all ages, the society has become the heart of the community. Its long-term goal is to present an historical play to commemorate Princeton’s 150th birthday in 2010 – an artistic legacy that residents will enjoy for years to come.

Creative Communities assists local governments to take stock of their cultural assets and identify strengths and challenges in their local arts and cultural sector. The program also guides governments through community consultations to determine how and where to expand local arts and cultural programs and projects. The program is supported by the Province of British Columbia.