Blyth Memorial Hall and Blyth Festival Theatre (BlackburnNews.com photo)Blyth Memorial Hall and Blyth Festival Theatre (BlackburnNews.com photo)
Midwestern

Ontario Invests Millions In Blyth Centre for the Arts

The Blyth Centre for the Arts is getting a huge commitment from the Province.

Ontario is investing $3.3 million to support the reconstruction of the nearly 100-year-old Blyth Memorial Community Hall.

Deputy Premier Deb Matthews announced the investment today and acknowledge the centre's contributions to the community.

Over 20,000 people attend the Blyth Festival each season.

The year-round arts centre draws even more people from across Ontario to its annual festivals, professional exhibits and community shows.

The Blyth Centre for the Arts, including the Blyth Festival, was founded in 1975 to produce professional Canadian theatre.

Peter Smith of the Blyth Arts and Culture Initiative 14/19 stated in a news release, "The Province of Ontario's partnership in creating a cultural hub in Blyth is contributing to a unique rural revitalization. The partnership will see the revitalization of Blyth Memorial Community Hall, home of the nationally celebrated Blyth Festival, the establishment of the Canadian Centre for Rural Creativity, an innovative and arts incubator, and the creation of the Rural Trust for long term sustainability. This is a game-changer."

Read More Local Stories