Revitalizing the Old Border Theatre has long been a meaningful objective for the Centre des arts de Stanstead. This project was envisioned as a way to rekindle a sense of pride within the community and to further foster creativity and cultural vitality in our region.
We were therefore extremely proud and honoured to learn, in May 2024, that our project had been awarded $2.1 million through the federal Green and Inclusive Community Buildings Program.
Over the past several months, the Board has undertaken a thorough and thoughtful review of the project. Following careful consideration, we have made the difficult decision not to move forward with the project at this time.
This decision is based on a combination of factors. The Haskell Opera House, is now functioning full time and contributing to meeting the community’s cultural and performance needs. In addition, the remaining $1.9 million required to complete the project has proven difficult to secure.
Given that the initial application was submitted five years ago, evolving economic conditions and rising construction costs made long-term planning more complex. At the same time, funding priorities among organizations have shifted, with less emphasis being placed on infrastructure projects of this nature.
This was not an easy decision. The vision for the Old Border Theatre remains deeply meaningful to us, and we remain committed to supporting arts and culture in Stanstead in ways that are both impactful and sustainable.
We would like to sincerely thank all those who have supported and believed in this project, and we look forward to seeing you this summer to enjoy the summer and fall programming we have planned.
