The move has drawn swift backlash from the local arts community, which fears the changes could undermine the region’s creative ecosystem.
News of the plan to convert some of the arts center’s rehearsal spaces, offices, and studios into classrooms surfaced on social media after Generation Dance Productions posted that they would lose their rented space at the college beginning next year. The dance company shared its plans of the proposed changes, which show the footprint of Keyano Theatre and Arts Centre being signifcantly reduced.
Keyano issued a statement earlier this week
“While changes to the footprint of the Theatre and Arts Centre are indeed forthcoming, we want to assure you that the Keyano Theatre and its essential support areas—such as dressing rooms and shop space—will remain operational and supported by additional spaces on the Clearwater campus. The theatre will still be available for rental by local schools, organizations, and businesses. And dedicated Keyano Theatre staff will keep staging community theatre productions and presenting performances by both local and touring artists. Thank you for your understanding and support”
Many in the arts community remain concerned about the potential loss of specialized facilities.
The Arts Council of Wood Buffalo has also weighed in, encouraging residents to voice their support for preserving the arts centre. As of today, the petition has garnered more than 1,000 signatures.
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