Kelowna’s Task Force On Performing Arts says the Kelowna Community Theatre (KCT), with some improvements to the front of the house, should remain and be renovated.
During the final council meeting of 2024, city councillors will hear four recommendations from the task force.
The task force was formed last year with the goal of exploring options to advance the redevelopment of the 62-year-old KCT.
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The task force began meeting once a month in January and has held eight meetings in total.
In those meetings, the task force met and received presentations from city staff, consultants, KCT staff, the Citizens for a New Performing Arts Centre Society, Arts Commons of Calgary and Live Nation.
According to the report headed to council on Monday, there is a recognized need for additional performance spaces and without additional venues, the arts community will face significant limitations.
The task force said the existing KCT would be able to maximize space and services with some improvements and a new performing arts centre should be built at a site “to be determined.”
The task force said creating opportunities for additional performances would have a positive economic, cultural and social impact on the community.
Based on those considerations, the task force made the following recommendations:
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The existing Kelowna Community Theatre Facility should remain in place to serve the community.
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A new Performing Arts Centre should be constructed at a site to be determined.
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The existing Kelowna Community Theatre should be renovated to enhance front of house amenities.
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The Community Task Force should continue to work to advance its remaining objectives in an advisory capacity.
According to the report, the task force is also recommending a series of both medium and long-term initiatives to promote performing arts in the community.
If council accepts the recommendations, city staff will start work on an implementation plan, including stakeholder engagement, location and functional space analysis, planning and design.
A report would be brought back to city council for consideration.
