As we enter the third week of the Great Canadian Giving Challenge, we want to shine our light on access to the arts, as the arts are the heart of who we are.
Performing artists are still in post pandemic recovery, with performing spaces and opportunities decreasing, which makes access to and activation of the arts incredibly important to us.
With programs like our Emerging and Professional Artist Residencies, artists were given funds and opportunity to create and perform in our spaces. With the financial barrier to creation lessened, these artists were able to develop pieces that can reach new audiences and expand their professional practice.
Our Artist Access Program provides affordable rentals to a wide range of artists and artistic organizations of all levels and experiences. Through access, artists can build and nurture a community, rallied around the common goals of learning, developing, and creating the arts.
Our new Studio Series, including Global Tea Series and Old School Music Hall, provide paid opportunities for professional artists to reach new audiences. Global Tea events are Pay-What-You-Can, allowing for more access to the arts for a greater population. With the amount of performance spaces decreasing, or becoming too expensive for independent artists to book, programs like Old School Music Hall give these artists a space and place to perform. And we make arts accessible by offering ticket prices below market rate.
These programs have been possible with the support of funders like the Province of British Columbia and The City of New Westminster, but to do more, we need more funds.
If you have the means, please consider donating today as part of the Great Canadian Giving Challenge and join the global giving movement. If not, share with your friends and tell them what the Massey Theatre means to you.
The Great Canadian Giving Challenge is designed to help charities fundraise during the slow summer months when donations tend to decline and people are out enjoying the summer sun.
As it is the 10th anniversary of the challenge, from June 1st to 30th, every $1 donated to the Massey Theatre Society through CanadaHelps gives us the chance to win $10,000. Additionally, every $10 donation that you make gets you an entry to win incredible adventure-themed prizes!
During this challenge (and always) we’re fundraising for community, as community is the heart of who we are. From our Community Kitchen to our Garden/Gathering Space. From Artist Access to Artistic Collaborations. From Audience Members to Performers and Crew. These funds will help us connect more with our community as we enter our 75th year.
