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Nelson Civic Theatre's Community Challenge

Businesses who contribute $500 or more earn a place on the donor wall, while seat sponsors receive special sponsorship acknowledgement
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Hollywood movie magic at the Nelson Civic Theatre Kickoff Gala and the screening of the James Bond film Skyfall brought out the glitter as tuxes, pearls and Bond girls walked the red carpet.

The highlight of the evening was the announcement of an anonymous local donation of $60,000 towards the purchase of a new digital projection and sound system.

Digital projection and sound is essential to ensure the future of the Nelson Civic Theatre. After this year, 35mm movie prints will no longer be made. That means that without digital, Nelson’s big screen will fade to black.

Project manager Roger Ley issued a Community Challenge: to match that generous donation, coupled with $15,000 already raised, to reach the $150,000 price tag for full-digital projection and sound.

“If the community can match that $75,000 by May 1st, we can go digital by summer,” says Ley. “When you break it down, it’s easy: 750 people donate $100, or 300 people sponsor seats. This is absolutely achievable.”

Businesses who contribute $500 or more earn a place on the donor wall, while seat sponsors receive special sponsorship acknowledgement as well. All donations made via the City of Nelson are eligible for a tax receipt.

The Nelson Civic Theatre Society was given the green light in October 2012 to begin the work of reopening and renovating the theatre. Three screens are essential to be successful as a non-profit enterprise, and so the goal is a complete upgrade and renovation to become a multiplex. The theatre can then show new, classic, and independent film at the same time, show streaming satellite TV sports and cultural events, or be used as an alternate rehearsal or performance venue. It’s a multi-year project, Ley explains, with the Community Challenge aimed at reaching the first fundraising goal.

“The possibilities are exciting,” says Ley. “Our kickoff weekend, with more than sell-out crowds, proved that the community wants their theatre back. We’re confident that Nelson can rise to the Community Challenge.”

The Society is accepting donations of any size by cheque at Nelson Civic Theatre, 719 Vernon Street, Nelson BC V1L 4G3 or online at civictheatre.ca/challenge via Paypal. Donations by cheque made to the City of Nelson and earmarked for the Nelson Civic Theatre are eligible for a charitable tax receipt. For more information go to the website or call 250-352-5833.