WESTERN EDGE THEATER

WESTERN EDGE TO REMAIN
IN NANAIMO ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE

Nanaimo’s Western Edge Theatre has announced that it will present the remainder of its 2008-09 season in the downtown Nanaimo Entertainment Centre. In making the announcement, Western Edge Theatre artistic producer Frank Moher thanked the facility’s owner, Paul Manhas, for helping Western Edge out of a tight spot.

“Back in October, we suddenly had to find a new venue in which to produce. On short notice, Paul made the Nanaimo Entertainment Centre available to us. The reaction of our audience and artists to the facility was extremely positive, and as a result we’ve decided, with Paul’s cooperation, to present the remaining three plays in our current season there as well.”

The Nanaimo Entertainment Centre, formerly the Caprice movie theatre, is located at 46 Nicol Street. Originally built in the 1970s, it was equipped for live performance three years ago.

“As a small arts organization, we can’t pay commercial lease rates,” said Moher. “Fortunately, Paul recognizes the value of the performing arts to Nanaimo, and particularly to downtown.”

Moher noted that Manhas, through his various downtown businesses, has been a long-time supporter of Western Edge. “Back in 2004, we presented our first New Waves Festival of new plays at the old Dizzy’s Nightclub, where the conference centre now stands. The year after that we premiered the play 'Some Random City' at what is now Club 241.”

In addition to equipping the former Caprice for live performance, Manhas is responsible for the impeccable restoration of the historic Rendezvous restaurant, now called Basque, on Wallace Street. “That was another terrific contribution to both the heritage and liveliness of downtown Nanaimo,” said Moher.

“Our partnership with Paul at the Nanaimo Entertainment Centre is a good example of how business and the arts can work together to benefit the community."

Western Edge Theatre’s next production is the rock musical “Hedwig and the Angry Inch,” opening January 23rd at the Nanaimo Entertainment Centre. Tickets are available at 325-7777 or 1-888-320-3343.

Western Edge Season Sponsors, in addition to Paul Manhas, are the Government of British Columbia, KopyKo, MusicMaxx, The Wave 102.3FM, The Wolf 106.9FM, the Nanaimo News-Bulletin, The Nanaimo Daily News, and The Harbour City Star.