Like most sectors, the entertainment industry has had to find creative solutions to safely operate amid the pandemic. Glace Bay’s historic Savoy Theatre is among those making big changes to enable audiences to watch live performances, virtually.

“We will continue to provide support to those who need it. Creating economic opportunities for organizations to build back better is our priority. Today’s announcement speaks to the diverse range of businesses we are helping to keep the economy going throughout the global COVID-19 crisis.”

-  The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA

“The Savoy Theatre has long been a pillar of Cape Breton’s famed culture and entertainment sectors. This project will promote economic growth at a time when the community needs it the most. Moving performances online will bring Cape Breton talent and traditions to audiences here at home and away, offering a brief escape from reality and some holiday cheer.”

-  Mike Kelloway, Member of Parliament for Cape Breton – Canso

“The Savoy is known as Cape Breton’s entertainment showplace and has always been able to roll with the climate of the world. It has withstood wars and pandemics before and we will adapt, persevere and rise to the challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic as well. This project will help us keep people employed and keep the Savoy relevant.”

-  Pam Leader, Executive Director, The Savoy Theatre 

• December is the Savoy Theatre’s busiest time of year, typically selling out all 760 seats per show. 

• In November, the Savoy Theatre brought back all five full-time employees, including box office and tech staff, who have been laid-off since March.

• December 12 will mark its opening day of a series of online events.

• Established in 1927, the Savoy Theatre is one of Cape Breton’s most popular and iconic entertainment venues. 

• The funding announced today is provided through ACOA’s Business Development Program (BDP) program, which helps businesses adopt innovative technologies that support scale-up, productivity and competitiveness.

Catherine Mounier-Desrochers
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Economic
Development and Official Languages
catherine.Mounier-Desrochers@canada.ca

Chris Brooks
Communications Director, Nova Scotia
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-830-3839
chris.brooks@canada.ca

Pam Leader
Executive Director
The Savoy Theatre Society
902-842-1599
pamleader@savoytheatre.com