Arts Centre Moving Ahead

Posted by ACES on Sep 15, 2012 in Press Release

Arts Centre for Edson Society Press Release
September 12, 2012
Facebook Page: “Arts Centre for Edson Society”

Arts Centre Moving Ahead

The Arts Centre for Edson Society (ACES) is still moving ahead with their plans and continues to work hard at developing a new performing arts theatre in Edson.

“We have a very dedicated team working to see this dream come alive,” says ACES President Peter Taylor, referring to the plans the local group has prepared since it began meeting in October 2007. “Our group has put countless hours into this project, from consulting community user groups to completing a business plan to designing the drawings.”

ACES’s plan is to attach a 500 seat theatre and visual arts gallery to the Edson and District Recreation Complex. In addition, the facility will see some major upgrades including an insulated curling rink, bleachers in the curling rink, an expanded deck next to the lounge and upgrades to the electrical and the sprinkler systems. The plan was approved by Edson Town Council in principle in June 2011.

“This idea has the ability to become a major draw for future residents and visitors,” says Taylor. “Essentially, we are taking a something our community considers a need (a new theatre and art gallery) and combining it into an existing facility in order to make it more multiuse.” Taylor adds that is a tremendous plus that the new building will have the ability to house arts and culture, sports, business functions, large community events and much more. “This facility defines the term multiuse.”

Currently, ACES is working with Gregory McClung of McClung Architects on finishing the 3-dimensional drawings of the proposed facility. The drawings should be completed in the next few weeks and ACES’s wishes to present them to both Edson Town Council and Yellowhead County Council in the coming months.

The group recently held their Annual General Meeting where a number of new faces were seen in attendance. “The word is out,” says Taylor. “Arts and culture is very important in our community, and we need a place for our local artists to call home. And now more and more people want to help anyway they can.” The new members who will serve as Directors on the Executive Committee include Gemma Christie, Kristie Gomuwka, Patti Shea, and Greg Templeton. “This group is made up of some of the most well-respected people in the community. They want to make Edson and the surrounding area a better place.”

The above group joins the already serving members: Taylor (President), Dave Michie (Vice-President), Shari McDowell (Secretary-Treasurer), Helen Payette, Robyne Wilock and Doug Woodhouse (all Directors). Even though they have an official executive committee, the organization remains a public group, meaning anyone can attend their meetings. “We have no secrets,” says Taylor. “We want to remain completely transparent.” Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of the month, 7:00 pm at Holy Redeemer.

ACES also recently unveiled their new website, www.artscentreforedson.ca, which has all the information on the organization including the business plan, proposed designs, and meeting minutes. The website should live by September 17.

When asked how long the facility will take to see construction begin, Taylor did not put an official timeframe on it. “All I can say is this is happening,” says Taylor. “A lot of progress has been made thus far and we will continue to work hard raising awareness and support of this amazing new centre.”

If you would like more information on this article please feel free to contact Peter Taylor, President of ACES at 780-725-2006 or join the Facebook page: “Arts Centre for Edson Society”.