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Centre court appeal

Posted on May 14, 2014 by Taber Times

Winter sports have ended and pristine baseball diamonds, soccer pitches, tennis courts, a skateboard park, golf course, and  a soon-to-be-added Taber Spray Park are ready for those who love, support and benefit from those activities for part of the year.

However, opportunities for creative endeavours and performances for those of the performing arts that can be year-round activities have no reliable place to gather.

It is mind-boggling to know that a theatre and other performing spaces are almost completed, but for code and financial hold-ups that can be overcome.

The iconic and historic buildings of the former police station, the old library and the historic court house are well into the process of being converted to a place for people to gather and pursue the activities they love and wish to follow.

Grants and donations are being made. Volunteer work is well underway by many who want to see the the centre completed.

The centre, named Centre Court, must encompass more than a couple of plays a year. There are so many talented performers: e.g. dancers, singers, musicians, soloists and bands, instrumentalists, speech arts, workshops, revues, etc. that could do so much to enhance Taber and area.

A woman in Cornwall, UK envisioned an outdoor theatre with seating on concrete risers on the side of a cliff that sloped to the sea. Questions were asked: What if performers fell off  into the sea? What if it rained?

Some answers were: “We will use flats and Grecian Columns to keep them on the stage… we will have light-weight raincoats for sale in the Gift Shop… if a show has to be cancelled we will phone you.” Completed in 2007 it is now a prime resort with on-going performances, a restaurant and… a gift shop.  

Can we get some of that attitude, determination, and exciting vision for Centre Court in Taber? Can the iconic and historic buildings from the past be not only made beautiful again, but also brought to community usefulness for the future?

HAZEL WEST

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