April 19, 2023 · Sydney, Nova Scotia · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
Creative communities play a key role in strengthening Atlantic Canada's reputation as a culturally-rich destination of choice. That is why the Government of Canada is helping complete improvements to the Highland Arts Theatre, so audiences can continue enjoying made-in-Cape Breton theatre experiences as well as visiting productions, driving economic development.
Today, Jaime Battiste, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Member of Parliament for Sydney-Victoria, announced total Government of Canada contributions totalling $625,000 to the non-profit Highland Arts Theatre Association. The investment will help enhance the Highland Arts Theatre, a popular performance venue in downtown Sydney known as "The HAT."
The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), and the Honourable Pablo Rodriguez, Minister of Canadian Heritage.
A non-repayable contribution of $375,000 is being made through ACOA and $250,000 is from the Department of Canadian Heritage for a modern fire suppression system at the Highland Arts Theatre. Work began in January and is expected to be completed in June with the bulk of the improvements finished by the end of April. The Cape Breton Regional Municipality is also contributing $25,000.
The Government of Canada is committed to supporting projects like this one that help grow strong, vibrant communities, and enhance quality of life for Atlantic Canadians.
