GUYSBOROUGH — With nine per cent of the project’s cost left to be raised, the fundraising finish line is within sight for Mulgrave Road Theatre’s (MRT) new Centre for the Arts on Rte. 16 in Guysborough.
All three levels of government have already contributed to the $9.3 million project, as well as businesses, foundations and individuals. MRT hopes to have the facility completed this coming winter.
“We’re sprinting to the finish line,” said Artistic Director Emmy Alcorn as she took The Journal on a tour of the building under construction on Aug. 20. The theatre hopes to secure that final nine per cent in the coming weeks. MRT has been fundraising for the new centre since 2017.
Over the coming months, the final stages of construction – including drywall, parking lot, painting, installation of a sprung floor in the theatre, seating and technical components – will be completed.
On Aug. 19, acclaimed actor, author and film director Ethan Hawke had a tour of the facility, which is certified zero carbon. With a background in theatre, Hawke was very pleased to see what’s taking shape in Guysborough.
“This building is at the intersection of professional theatre and community development,” said Alcorn. “He was really passionate about that, because we seem to have the same philosophy on that – the impact that theatre can have on community, on society.”
A further comment from Hawke is posted to MRT’s website, including: “Mulgrave Road Theatre and its new facility have my unequivocal support. Looking forward to opening night!”
Those wishing to learn more about MRT’s new Centre for the Arts can visit the theatre’s website. In addition to donations in support of the project, MRT will seek community support through various volunteer roles once the centre opens.
