Funding to Restore Lunenburg Opera House
Residents of Lunenburg County will see a major transformation of the Lunenburg Opera House with an investment from the Community Economic Development Fund.
“The Opera House fills a significant need in Lunenburg’s cultural sector, providing a much-needed arts, cultural and performing arts facility,” said Economic Development Minister Susan Corkum-Greek. “The restoration of this beautiful and iconic facility in Lunenburg ensures the continued celebration of the culture and history of Nova Scotia through music and live performances.”
The Lunenburg Folk Harbour Society applied to restore and revitalize the Lunenburg Opera House into a community asset offering year-round entertainment and an event space.
The project is divided into three phases: Phase 1 – building condition assessment and project definition; Phase 2 – completion of architectural plans; and Phase 3 – construction and restoration.
This project will develop more specialized aspects of construction, materials supply, artisanal skills and general awareness of Lunenburg’s national historic site and UNESCO designations. It is expected to be complete in the next three to five years.
Quotes:
“This Department of Economic Development funding will bring the Lunenburg Opera House to a shovel-ready stage for its extensive restoration, renovation and revitalization. Upgrading this 116-year-old landmark concert hall, in the centre of Lunenburg's UNESCO district, has been a longtime goal for Lunenburg Folk Harbour Society, as well as for other music, film, theatre, dance and comedy presenters. The Lunenburg Opera House will be a high-profile, full-use, all-year setting for expanded performing arts activity, larger audiences, more public enjoyment and new cultural tourism spin-offs.”
— Tom McFall, Vice-President, Lunenburg Folk Harbour Festival board
Quick Facts:
- the Lunenburg Folk Harbour Society received $207,000 through the Community Economic Development Fund to restore and revitalize the Lunenburg Opera House
- total financing for this stage (Phase 2) of the project is $414,150
Additional Resources:
Community Economic Development Fund application information: https://beta.novascotia.ca/apply-project-funding-community-economic-development-fund