After years of planning and hard work, a new centre for the arts is set to open in Tatamagouche, N.S.
“Tatamagouche has always been a vibrant community. So this performing arts centre is really going to enhance the whole area,” says Mike Gregory, county councillor.
The Creamery Square Project is a complex of buildings that celebrate local history, culture, and entertainment.
The 160-seat arts centre is in the last phase of a three phase plan that began more than a decade ago.
It all started when the old creamery building was donated to the community and it became home to five different museums. A farmers market was built on the site, then work began on the arts centre itself.
“There are places with a performing arts centre, there are farmer's markets and there are museums, but to have it all in a town square, in a small village like Tatamagouche, is, that's what makes it unique,” says Fred Maybee, of the Creamery Square Association.
Marilyn Driver is a member of the Heritage Society. She says the Creamery Square Project will create endless opportunities for the area.
“We're all excited about it and also the possibilities for Tatamagouche, because this building is open, we will be bringing people into the North Shore that haven't been here. Hopefully we'll get on the map,” says Driver.
Other parts of the complex include an outdoor performance stage and a boat shop.
The former creamery ice house has been converted into the centre's main foyer, where local paintings will hang on the walls.
“With the people coming in, either just to view the art, or for the entertainment venues, it'll be a lovely opportunity,” says local artist Barbara Gregory.
The official opening of the arts centre happens this weekend.
“The arts people have been waiting a long time. The arts community has been waiting a long time for this to finally get in place, while we watched the square grow,” says Maybee.
With files from CTV Atlantic's Dan MacIntosh
