CHESTER – For 85 years, audiences have been delighted and entertained at the Chester Playhouse on Nova Scotia’s South Shore. The theatre has hosted local and international artists and become a source of pride for the municipality and the province. Despite extensive damage caused by a fire in 2021, the community rallied around the theatre, determined to reopen and welcome audiences and performances again.
Andy Fillmore, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry and Member of Parliament (Halifax), announced new funding of $1.05 million towards infrastructure upgrades, renovations, and the reconstruction of the newly reopened Chester Playhouse. He made this announcement on behalf of Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Canadian Heritage, and Gudie Hutchings, Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and Minister of Rural Economic Development.
These funds will contribute to enhanced experiences for performers and artists, as well as for audience members, staff, and volunteers. A new commercial grade projector, sound system, and screen will deliver world-class performances to audiences. Accessibility has been improved with fully accessible spaces, a stair lift to the second floor, and a Bluetooth Hearing Loop system for use by people who are hearing impaired. Electrical systems have been upgraded and HVAC systems have been replaced to comply with modern standards.
This funding to the Chester Theatre Society includes $700,000 from the Department of Canadian Heritage’s Canada Cultural Spaces Fund and $350,000 from ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund. In addition to funding from the Government of Canada, the Province of Nova Scotia has provided $200,000; the Municipality of the District of Chester has provided $200,000; and private donations totaling more than $1 million have helped ensure the Chester Playhouse’s rebuild and reopening.
“Theatres are the cultural heartbeat of communities across the country. We are proud to support the Chester Theatre Society so they can continue doing their great work to promote and encourage the performing arts in the region. The Chester Playhouse and its supporters have overcome a significant challenge, and I wish the performers, staff, and volunteers the best in their upcoming seasons.” – Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Canadian Heritage
“The Chester Playhouse is a beloved community gathering place where people of all ages can experience and share in the magic of the arts with friends and family. We are pleased to help the theatre build back better than ever after the ravages of the 2021 fire. With improved accessibility and state-of-the-art upgrades, the Chester Playhouse will raise the curtain on a new era of amazing productions and year-round entertainment for residents and visitors alike. – Gudie Hutchings, Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and Minister of Rural Economic Development