A local arts leader is pushing ahead in its bid to build a multi-use design space to help fill the void for Greater Victoria rehearsal and performance space. However, The Other Guise Theatre Company has hit a wall when it comes to volunteer labour, launching a campaign to raise $50,000 for skilled work and supplies.
Armed with hammers, brooms and paint brushes, the downtown performing arts hub at 716 Johnson St. has been inching towards an opening day with a series of work parties and volunteer groups, The Other Guise said in a news release. The hands-on support is keeping costs down while maintaining the project’s momentum.
“We are moving ahead with our plans to activate the space and are reaching out to the public to support this project to become a community amenity. This will directly support local performing artists and move them closer to having their work seen by audiences. It will also add to the vibrancy of that block through beautification of the storefront as well as bringing more pedestrian traffic to the block,” executive director Matthew Payne said. “The sooner we can open the doors, the sooner we can move to a self-sustaining model and be a contributing member of the downtown community.”
To move the Arts Hub into the next phase of the renovation, The Other Guise launched the Spring Clean Campaign to help with construction beyond the scope of volunteer skills. Contributions will be used for cosmetic upgrades to the former grocery store as well as upgrades to areas such as bathrooms. Funds will help buy paint, lumber and flooring as well as professional builders to complete structural pieces.
To kick off the campaign, playwright Rick Waines will match the first $1,000 raised.
“Becoming a matching donor in the effort to increase affordable performance and rehearsal space was a no-brainer for me,” Waines said. “The arts are a critical part of our community and I am grateful for the opportunity to move this initiative forward and support current and future artists. I invite others to join me in supporting this important addition to our community with a matching donation.”
Donate through the link online at otherguise.ca or the group’s CanadaHelps page. Anyone interested in a future work party can register using the form on the contact page.
