The Nelson Civic Theatre Society was incorporated in June of 2012. Now, the society — a community-driven success story — is approaching its first annual general meeting on Sunday, September 22 at 1 p.m.
When the society received the green light from city council, the theatre was partly gutted, with piles of dusty seats on the stage and an old film projector and mono speaker mouldering in the shadows. Now, the Nelson Civic Theatre is fully digital, with a crystal clear DCI projector and surround sound, enjoyed in clean, comfortable seats. The theatre has been showing Hollywood and independent films all summer.
“It took a lot of hard work to get here — with a few good laughs along the way — thanks to the dedication of our directors, committees, staff and volunteers, and the goodwill of a community that rose to an ambitious fundraising challenge,” says society president Anne DeGrace. “Of course, we have a ways to go to reach our goal of three theatres, but there is much to celebrate.”
DeGrace emphasizes the importance of attending the AGM.
“Our constitution calls for 10 per cent of our membership to make a quorum. That means, as we have 2,000 members, we need 200 people at the Annual general meeting,” she says, promising an efficient, enjoyable meeting followed by a free movie for attendees.
Four two-year board positions must be filled, and to that end the society is accepting applications until September 1 at 5 p.m. for potential election at the AGM. Additionally, new memberships and notices of motion must be received by that time for inclusion in the AGM.
A motion for a change in the constitution to allow for a quorum of less than 10 per cent of the membership will be on the table, because, as DeGrace points out, “when we started, we never imagined we would be so wildly successful in our membership drive. But it does present a challenge for the AGM.”
She adds that, with the level of community engagement and sense of ownership in the Civic Theatre and its future, she expects an excellent turnout.
Information about the AGM and the process for applications to the Board can be found at civictheatre.ca/AGM or call 250-352-5833.