The city is getting set create a “cultural map” through its first theatre policy.
Over the next year, the city plans to consult with the community to understand its vision for the performing arts and to consult with stakeholders including the Massey Theatre Society, the Vagabond Players, the Arts Council of New Westminster, the New Westminster arts commission, artists and performers and other key cultural organizations. With the assistance of a consultant who specializes in cultural planning, the city will develop a theatre strategy that includes recommendations for the city.
Coun. Chuck Puchmayr said he’d like to ensure that representatives from all theatres in the city, including The Columbia and the Douglas College theatre, are included in the process. He’d also like to hear from the representatives from the high school, which uses Massey Theatre for events.
“I would like to see all performing arts venues in the city be part of that consultation,” he said.
Caroline Armanini, the city’s economic development coordinator, said there will be an opportunity for community groups to participate in stakeholder sessions that are planned.
“The process is just starting over the summer,” she said. “We want to be able to prepare the background and get prepped for September. “
A staff report indicates the city will hold discussion groups to identify New Westminster’s strengths, opportunities and competitive advantages in the fall and winter. The report will tie into the new arts strategy that’s currently being developed.
