Dignitaries highlight upgrades with official ceremony
Edmonton, Alberta, September 30, 2011 – A large-scale renovation has breathed new life into the Citadel Theatre/Robbins Academy, one ofEdmonton’s most important cultural and community assets. Federal, provincial and municipal dignitaries were on hand today to open the doors, and celebrate the completion of this important project.
“The Citadel Theatre is a fundamental part of the arts scene in Edmonton, and I am glad to see federal investments have supported these upgrades,” said the Honourable Laurie Hawn, Member of Parliament for Edmonton Centre, on behalf of the Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities. “Projects like this demonstrate our government’s commitment to investing in municipal infrastructure that contributes to building strong, sustainable and healthy communities.”
“From the captivating to controversial, classic to cutting-edge, Edmontonians and Albertans of all ages have had the opportunity to experience the unique energy of live theatre at the Citadel,” said Thomas Lukaszuk, Alberta Minister of Employment and Immigration and MLA for Edmonton-Castle Downs. “Alberta Arts Days is the perfect opportunity to showcase this newly renovated facility that is the epicentre of live theatre in our capital city.”
“The Citadel Theatre is a major player in our vibrant and growing arts district downtown,” said Mayor Stephen Mandel. “I am thankful that all orders of government and the community have worked together to support these much needed renovations to one ofEdmonton's iconic cultural institutions.”
“We’re truly grateful that all three levels of government could come together to help rejuvenate one ofCanada’s most important arts facilities,” said Penny Ritco, Executive Director of the Citadel Theatre/Robbins Academy. “The building is more accessible, energy efficient, safe, comfortable, and attractive. We are proud to share it with the thousands who attend productions and events here every year.”
The project received over $2.6 million from the Government of Canada through the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund. TheProvinceofAlbertaprovided more than $2.4 million and the City ofEdmontonprovided $3.6 million.
Work on the multi-phased renovations and renewal of the Citadel complex has been ongoing for two years, and included major replacements to the glass exterior wall, renovations to Zeidler Hall and Rice Lobby, improvements to the dressing rooms and public washroom facilities, and additional repairs to the structure.
Federal funding comes from the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund. As part of the Government of Canada’s Economic Action Plan, the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund is providing funding to over 4,100 infrastructure projects across the country. Since April 2009, 252 projects have received a total federal commitment of over $421 million under the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund acrossAlberta.
Provincial funding was made possible through lottery-funded community investment programs. For further information on these programs visit www.culture.alberta.ca/grantprograms
The Albertagovernment is working to build a better Alberta by fostering economic growth, strengthening health and education systems, investing in infrastructure, supporting safe and strong communities and ensuring a clean and healthy environment.
About the Citadel Theatre/Robbins Academy
The Citadel Theatre/Robbins Academy is a not-for-profit organization that relies on the generous support of donors, sponsors, and foundation and government funders. The Citadel is grateful for the generous support of the many public and private donor and sponsors, as well as the ongoing support of the City ofEdmonton, the Edmonton Arts Council, the Alberta Foundation for the Arts, and the Canada Council for the Arts and our patrons.
For further information on Infrastructure Canada’s investments in Alberta, visit www.creatingjobs.gc.ca.
To learn more about Canada’s Economic Action Plan, visit www.actionplan.gc.ca.
Contacts:
Pierre Floréa
Office of the Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities
613-991-0700
Beryl Cullum
AlbertaCulture and Community Spirit
780-427-6530
Jason Magee
Manager - Media Relations
780-428-2117
jmagee@citadeltheatre.com
Infrastructure Canada
613-948-1148
Toll free: 1-877-250-7154
