After 19 years of stage productions under Cambrian College's roof, the theatre group was notified that their 20th season, ending in May 2005, would be their last in that location. To continue on, Theatre Cambrian was forced to rent rehearsal space and stage time at a variety of venues across town, but nowhere that they could call their own.
However, in September of this year, a spotlight came on at St. Eugene's Parish Church on Eyre St. and Theatre Cambrian pounced on the opportunity to purchase the church from the Diocese of Sault Ste. Marie.
"This development represents a huge step in the history of
Theatre Cambrian... that will put us in charge of our own
destiny," said Patricia Park, Theatre Cambrian president.
At the celebratory unveiling of the new permanent venue on Friday morning, Park, happily said, "We own this building and everything that goes with it. It's such a thrilling moment to be standing on what will become our stage."
Greater Sudbury Mayor John Rodriguez joined in the
celebrations as Theatre Cambrian accepted the keys to the
church and unlocked the doors of their future home.
"It's extremely important that this has happened now
because Theatre Cambrian had to continue," he said. "We're
going from the drama of mass to the drama of life which will be
portrayed on the stage of this theatre.
Cast members of Theatre Cambrian graced the crowd with a performance of a number from their upcoming production, The Best of Broadway, which runs Oct. 19-20 at the Sheridan Auditorium.
"This is just a sample of the type of talent that will eventually be showcased here," said Mark Mannisto, executive director of Theatre Cambrian.
For more information on Theatre Cambrian, visit www.theatrecambrian.ca or phone 524-7317.
