Ideas for the GST -- OVCC, Gas Station Theatre

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Subject: Ideas for the GST

Author:
Gerry Atwell

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Date Posted: Thursday, January 13, 10:11:29pm

I have an idea to increase bookings at the GST. I am thinking of a series of ethnically diverse weekend cultural festivals featuring art and culture from various nations. We would make the series available to ethno-cultural organizations in Winnipeg. They would pay a base rental and tech rate, share part of the proceeds with GST and be responsible for the costs assoiciated with presenting their weekend.

This series differs from Folklorama in that we would present between late fall and early spring and avoid summer. As well, we would focus on one country per weekend and would include fine arts, contemporary art, classical art and original local creations as opposed to exclusively folk art and popular presentations. If organizations representing say, 5 different countries were interested, we could book up 5 slow weekends. GST could establish a standard Thurs-Sunday template such as:

Thursday: readings/lectures
Friday: films
Sat: performing arts
Sunday: children's progrmaming

Or whatever works.

GST could assist each group in planning and producing their event. We would draw audience from both the featured community and the community at large. The Folk Arts Council of Winnipeg could be approached to assist in the development, promotion and running of this series. The series could be run once a month, or in blocks. It could be booked first come, first serve or by lottery or it could be programmed by GST.

Many of Winnipeg's diverse communities have talented artists and performers. As well, many communities would be willing to bring in films, lecturers, artists and performers to share with the community at large. They just need an affordable place to do it.

Submitted for you consideration,

Gerry Atwell

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[> Subject: Re: multicultural series

Author:
Todd Pennell
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Date Posted: Sunday, January 16, 04:18:40pm

I think this is an excellent idea. First it provides a stream of users for the Gas Station Theatre, expanding the base into many new communities. Second, it is reflective of Winnipeg's multicultural nature. Third, it will attract many newcomers to the entire Osborne Village area, thereby increasing business traffic for the many merchants and amenities.

As I recall, there have been a number of bookings in the past by some of our cultural organizations.

There are a number of considerations: The resources available at the OVCC are limited; putting a program such as this in place will need significant volunteer effort to ensure its financial viability. A multicultural series will require significant organization and liaison with the many diverse groups - as you suggest, the Folk Arts Council may be a potential partner in such a venture.

Potential audience size is another: some communities are very large and our facility is actually too small for their needs. What we can offer is a professional venue for some of the smaller ethnic communities - which in itself could make for a highly interesting and exciting program.

It is a good suggestion, one which can be explored by the Board as we work on the future of our theatre.