Waiheke theatre receives council support

MEDIA RELEASE

16 September 2002

Waiheke theatre receives council support

Performing artists will benefit from a $45,780 Auckland City Council grant made to the Waiheke Community Theatre, located at Artworks in Oneroa.

The operational grant continues to support a venue for the performing arts on Waiheke Island.

Councillor Graeme Mulholland, chair of Auckland City Council’s Community Services Committee, says the grant was made due to the fact that there had been significant progress made in addressing the theatre’s operational and organisational issues. This was assisted by the temporary appointment of a theatre development manager, and the launch of a new business plan for the facility.

“Historically, the theatre has provided a focus for the local community in the absence of a community centre on the island. I am pleased with the new business plan. It is comprehensive, and clearly reflects the future direction of this dedicated community performance venue. The theatre also plays an key role in fostering amateur theatre and community involvement in the arts”.

Committee member, Hauraki Gulf Islands Councillor Faye Storer says the theatre is a very important venue for Waiheke Island.

“The theatre is an integral part of arts and culture on Waiheke. It has been operating for a number of years now and has a good local following.” This is a truly accessible and community based approach to the performing arts, and one which is to be admired and encouraged”.
The funding agreement between Auckland City Council and the Waiheke Island Community Artworks Charitable Trust includes performance indicators ensuring that the business plan is implemented and that the venue is affordable and accessible to the community performing arts sector.

ENDS

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