A.E. Peacock Collegiate will be embarking on a major three-month campaign that is aimed at raising $250,000 to upgrade its Centennial Auditorium.
The school made the announcement at a press conference today.
The Centennial Auditorium which was built in 1931 is home to many major performances and events throughout the year, not only for students but the Moose Jaw community and surrounding area.
Peacock Collegiate announced that the Auditorium needs extensive upgrades to maintain a state-of-the-art facility for years to come.
“We want to do a great job in ensuring that this space, performance venue is available for use for the future. This auditorium was constructed in 1931 and this continues to be a very large theatre performance stage, not only in Moose Jaw but in the province,” said Principal at Peacock Collegiate, Dustin Swanson.
“It is one of the largest auditoriums available and the single-largest school auditorium in the province. It is also one of the largest single purpose facilities here in Moose Jaw for performances, which is why it is used so much by the community. It’s a wonderful asset for Moose Jaw and a very unique space.”
The Centennial Auditorium seats up to 800 people and Swanson says the time has come to make upgrades to the facility.
“This is the venue that has supported thousands of performers, bands, choirs, speakers, musicals, dancers and more for the last 87 years. It has a lot of great amenities that are great for the arts. It has a giant stage; large wings, green rooms, dressing rooms, sound system and seating for 800 people. Over the last 87 years, a lot of o upgrades have happened to this facility. We want to take this time to outline what’s next...”
Swanson outlined some of the work that will take place during upgrades.
“Thousands of students and youth in Moose Jaw and surrounding areas have been a part of this facility in some way or another. With this in mind, we’re undertaking a campaign to fundraise to ensure we can renew this auditorium so that it can remain state-of-the-art for the next 90 years. The last major renovation at the Centennial Auditorium was in 1966—53 years ago. Through this fundraising, we are going to be able to redo the flooring, put in new seating, upgrade lighting and sound, refresh the change room facilities and all of the backstage amenities. We can’t do this work without the support of the community.”
Principal Swanson went on to add that the campaign will run for three months, with the aim of raising $250,000. The school wants to begin upgrades this summer. He says anyone can get involved.
“There are many ways to be involved in this project. We have a committee and a group of volunteers who will be connecting with local businesses and organizations about becoming a supporter of the auditorium. However, any individual, family, student, alumni are welcome to get involved and donate to this cause. It is very easy to get involved. You can do this by visiting www.newseats.ca or contact the school or the commission to find out more about how you can become involved,” said Swanson.
“We are looking for a lot of support. In fact, we are looking to raise $250,000. We have ways that can help us reach this goal through platinum sponsorship or different businesses and organizations who would love to have naming rights for a portion of the auditorium or individuals who would like to make a small donation to a new seat. There are many opportunities available for all to be involved. Our aim is to raise this in three months so we can get started this summer. We can’t do this without your support. It’s an exciting opportunity for all of us.”
Meanwhile, Tim McLeod, Chairman of the Prairie South School Board has announced Prairie South’s support for this campaign.
“The Prairie South School Board is always excited when opportunity arises to improve one of our facilities in a way that will enhance student learning and improve the overall educational experience. I can still remember standing on this stage over 30 years ago as an elementary school student.
"It was always a highlight to travel to Moose Jaw to participate in and perform on this stage. I always appreciate the opportunities that facilities like this offer to communities and students.”
He continued, “This facility is more than just a school auditorium. It is a community hall, dance studio, concert stage and a launching pad for performing arts careers. It is all of these things for more than just students in Prairie South. It benefits the entire community, surrounding communities and people across the province who come here to take advantage of this wonderful place.
"On behalf of the Prairie South School Board, I’m pleased to announce our support for this worthwhile campaign and encourage others to donate to the revitalization of this facility that brings so much benefit to so many people.”
