Press Release: Orangeville Town Council Approves Loan Supporting Theatre Orangeville’s Long-Term Future

ORANGEVILLE, ON  – Theatre Orangeville is grateful to Orangeville Town Council for approving a $300,000 loan that will support the organization’s long-term future while allowing it to continue delivering professional Canadian theatre, arts education, and community programming.

Approved at Council’s July 13 meeting, the loan follows months of collaboration between Theatre Orangeville’s Board of Directors and Town staff to develop a responsible financial plan that supports the theatre’s continued operation while providing a clear path for repayment.

“This decision provides Theatre Orangeville with an important path forward,” said Laura Austin, Board Chair. “Council’s confidence means a great deal to our Board, staff, volunteers, artists, and everyone who believes in the importance of live theatre. We recognize the responsibility that comes with that confidence and remain fully committed to repaying the loan in accordance with the approved agreement while continuing to build a strong future for Theatre Orangeville.”

During the Council meeting, members recognized Theatre Orangeville’s significant contribution to the cultural, educational, and economic vitality of the community. Since opening in 1994, Theatre Orangeville has developed and premiered new Canadian plays, provided arts education opportunities for thousands of young people, welcomed audiences from across the region, and supported local businesses through cultural tourism.

For Artistic Director Jennifer Stewart, the true value of Theatre Orangeville has always been found in the power of live theatre to connect people and build community.

“Live theatre creates a place where people can come together, forget their problems for a few hours, and share an experience that is increasingly rare in our isolated age. It encourages us to step into someone else’s shoes, see life from a different perspective, and build the empathy we need more than ever. As we look ahead to our Season of Discovery, we’re excited to welcome audiences with stories that offer something for everyone while continuing to make Theatre Orangeville a place where our community can gather, connect, and discover.” said Jennifer Stewart, Artistic Director.

Theatre Orangeville also extends its sincere appreciation to Mayor Lisa Post and Members of Council for their thoughtful consideration, to Chief Administrative Officer David Smith, Chief Financial Officer Cheryl Braan, and Town staff for their guidance throughout the process, and to Alison Scheel, Executive Director of the Orangeville Business Improvement Area, for speaking in support of the theatre and its contribution to Orangeville’s downtown and local economy.

Looking ahead, Theatre Orangeville remains focused on delivering an exciting Season of Discovery, expanding community partnerships, supporting Canadian artists and playwrights, and inspiring the next generation through arts education.

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About Theatre Orangeville

Theatre Orangeville is a non-profit professional theatre company whose artistic vision guides every aspect of what we do. To enrich the community with a high quality, professional theatre experience, that showcases the development of new Canadian works; to provide youth with unique opportunities to transform their lives through the performing arts; to provide vibrant, engaging and creative opportunities that grows the cultural experience through community partnerships; and nurture diversity, promote acceptance and celebrate all abilities.

Media Inquiries

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Theatre Orangeville
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