Build Back Better - Taking the Show on the Road

Hello Friends,

It's been an interesting couple of years as we navigated the challenges of COVID-19. Now we are beginning an exciting upgrade and expansion. Our current facility will more than double in size, with the addition of a beautiful new public library and expanded meeting/event space. We are calling it a "Cultural Hub" because it will bring together many cultural groups and experiences. While our theatre will not grow in size (it is the PERFECT size), it will get a top-to-bottom refresh. We have one of the best sounding rooms in Atlantic Canada and a venue that draws patrons from all over, so we "are not gonna fix what is not broke". After eight years of planning and consultation, we are excited to be building a facility that addresses so many of our challenges and opportunities.

Although we will need to continue to adapt, and find new ways to keep the shows and events rolling, it will be worth it when we can reopen as one of rural Nova Scotia's most innovative art centres. Look forward to:

• Stage and production improvements allowing us to deliver bigger productions, while enhancing the patron experience for every event.
• Complete exterior refresh merging Pictou's heritage flavour with bold new architectural style. The building is designed to welcome residents to the downtown and waterfront.  
• Expanded and improved parking, washrooms and lobby space.
• Greatly improved capacity to host visual art throughout the facility.
• Enhanced accessibility, with a goal of attaining Rick Hansen Accessibility Foundation standard.
• Incorporation of design principles, building systems and materials choices to achieve maximum reduction of carbon footprint and ensure climate resiliency.
• Enhanced kitchen facilities, allowing us to better host catered events. 

Learn more about the project by visiting our micro-site: http://www.culturehubpc.ca

In order for construction to occur efficiently, we are taking our shows on the road, partnering with  awesome venues throughout Pictou County including: 

• Glasgow Square, 155 Riverside Parkway, New Glasgow, NS
• Merigomish Schoolhouse Community Centre, 1682 Shore Rd., Merigomish, NS
• Pictou County Wellness Centre, 2-2756 Westville, Rd., Pictou Co., NS
• Royal Canadian Legion - Pictou Branch, 130 Veterans Drive, Pictou, NS
• St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church, 105 Coleraine St., Pictou, NS

The deCoste opened 40 years ago in November of 1982. We are planning to celebrate this important milestone from November 2022 until November 2023. Taking our shows out into the county to various communities and venues is a great way to say, "Thank you for 4 decades of support." 

While we are preparing to start construction, our community fundraising campaign continues. We have reached the 85% mark and are thrilled with the fantastic support we have received from patrons, companies, foundations and community organizations. Pictou County has long embraced the deCoste as a true gem and important element in our amazing quality of life.

No donation is too small, and we welcome “in memoriam” donations and pledges over up to three years. Donations over $25 will receive a charitable receipt and donations over $250 will be acknowledged on a donor wall in the new facility. Keep an eye out for a "Take a Seat" campaign in 2023 to fund brand new seating for the theatre. For more information, visit (www.culturehubpc.ca) or contact Troy to discuss a contribution (troy@decostecentre.ca).

Thank you for your incredible and continued support as we navigate through our next adventure!  We can't wait to see you at one of the shows!