Federal government spending $1.2M on Mermaid Theatre in Windsor, N.S.

Performers are pictured on stage at the Mermaid Theatre in Windsor, N.S. (Source: Facebook)

The federal government announced it will spend $1.2 million to upgrade and revitalize the Mermaid Theatre in Windsor, N.S.

Kody Blois, Member of Parliament for Kings-Hants, announced the funding, which he said was an investment in cultural spaces and the future of communities.

“With this funding, we continue to encourage residents and visitors to experience local culture and local talent, while also encouraging artists to innovate and share their talent at this iconic space,” Blois said.

Canadian Heritage is providing $800,000 “to help support revitalization efforts at the Mermaid Theatre, which will lead to improved spaces and better access to the arts for residents and visitors,” said a news release. Renovations will include building updates and the purchase of specialized equipment.

The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) will provide a non-repayable contribution of $400,000 through its Innovative Communities Fund. The funding will be used for accessibility, safety and energy efficiency upgrades and the purchase of new equipment, said the release. This will be in addition to $210,000 dollars provided by ACOA to “enhance the theatre’s digital animation programming, such as MermaidTV’s Animalingo, by hiring expertise and upgrading computer equipment.”

“For 50 years, Mermaid Theatre has wowed kids and families at home and abroad, earning international attention for its digital programs,” said Gudie Hutrchings, the minister of Rural Economic Development and minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. “These upgrades mean even more people will get to enjoy their shows in an accessible, year-round space.”

The Mermaid Theatre was founded in 1972.

For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page