ANNAPOLIS ROYAL, Nova Scotia, June 15th, 2012 – People who live in and visit Annapolis Royal will be able to enjoy films and other artistic presentations, thanks to a new investment in the local economy from the Government of Canada. Support for the King’s Theatre Society was announced today by Greg Kerr, Member of Parliament (West Nova), on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

The funding will support the King’s Theatre Society in purchasing a cinema-quality digital projection system. The new equipment will enable the theatre to present public screenings of films that would not ordinarily be offered in Annapolis Royal, international films, contemporary art films, and films featured at festivals. With the new technology, the theatre will also deliver more contemporary and sophisticated live performances, expand its youth engagement and community outreach, and increase income opportunities.

“Our Government received a strong mandate from Canadians to invest in organizations like the King’s Theatre Society,” said Minister Moore. “By supporting this new technology, our Government is delivering on its commitment to strengthen our economy and support our arts, culture, and heritage.”

“I am pleased to see our Government’s support for the King’s Theatre Society, a vital cultural organization in this region of Nova Scotia,” said Mr. Kerr. “By expanding cultural experiences for residents and visitors, the Society will help boost tourism and create economic growth in the region.”

“The support received from the Government of Canada over the years has played a vital role in ensuring that King’s Theatre continues to offer accessible and diverse cultural experiences to people of all ages throughout the Annapolis Valley,” said Wayne Currie Chairman, King’s Theatre Society. “This funding for digital projection technology through the Cultural Spaces program will allow King’s to continue to bring the best in international and Canadian cinema to our film audiences while it also offers opportunities to broaden live performance experience and opens new avenues for youth engagement.”

The King’s Theatre Society was incorporated in 1988 with a mandate to provide opportunities for communities to partake in arts and culture activities. Its mission is to foster the discovery and enjoyment of the performing arts and other forms of creative expression through performances, educational programs, and community-based activities.

The Government of Canada has provided funding of $35,585 through the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program seeks to improve physical conditions for artistic creativity and arts presentation or exhibition. It is also designed to increase access for Canadians to performing, visual, and media arts, and to museum collections and heritage displays.