A Stage for All Seasons The Port Stanley Bandshell Committee, led by Chairman, Ed Finlan, is progressing with its vision for a community bandshell as part of the Central Elgin Waterfront Master Plan. “The plan has designated two potential sites – Hofhuis Park and the Berm – as possible locations for a venue, whether a bandshell or an auditorium,” Ed explains. Following public consultations conducted around the start of COVID-19, there was strong community support for a performance venue, prompting the committee to bring the concept to life. With backing from Central Elgin Council, Ed and a committee of eleven passionate members began raising funds. “I approached Council on November 13, 2023, to present our idea and seek their support,” he notes. The Council, supportive but clear that they could not financially back the project, encouraged the committee to pursue external funding and grants. Already, the committee has raised approximately $25,000 through a range of events, including concerts, a golf tournament, and this year’s New Year’s Eve party. Ed hopes to continue building on this momentum to cover initial costs, even though a bandshell is estimated to cost between $800,000 and $1 million. He and his wife, Jane, both experienced in grant writing, plan to apply for provincial infrastructure grants to bolster funding. The Port Stanley Bandshell Committee is committed to maintaining transparency throughout the process. “We’re open to suggestions and feedback,” Ed emphasizes, stressing the
importance of community involvement. To ensure a collaborative approach, a steering committee that includes two Council members, two staff members, and two committee members has been established to work on design and site planning. “This is a community project, and we want everyone to be part of it,” he adds. For Ed, the value of a bandshell extends beyond music per- formances. Reflecting on his own experience playing in bandshells across Ontario, he notes, “These spaces become a focal point for communities. They host picnics, dance parties, art shows, and even outdoor theatre. It’s a gathering space, not just a stage.” The vision is to create a welcoming environment with shaded benches and open green spaces, encouraging families to enjoy the park and fostering a sense of togetherness. In addition to fostering community connection, the bandshell will create new opportunities for local performers, especially young artists. “It’s important to provide children a platform for performing arts, whether it’s music or theatre,” Ed emphasizes. Proper management will be key to ensuring an accessible and engaging schedule for all community members, allowing the bandshell to serve as a cultural hub. To learn more or share input on the Port Stanley bandshell project, Ed invites community members to reach out at efinlan3@gmail.com.
GIFT UNFORGETTABLE MOMENTS! them with a ticket to entertainment.
A perfect gift for family & friends!
GIFT CERTIFICATES SEASON SUBSCRIPTIONS SINGLE TICKETS Great performances should be shared. PortStanleyFestival FestivalTheatre
www.psft.ca 519-782-4353
To advertise here, please contact Geoff@villagerpublications.com
Port Stanley Villager • December 2024 • Page 3
Made with FlippingBook - Online catalogs