Show your Support for Canadian Theatres!

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During this challenging time we want to rally support for Canadian theatres. By participating in this campaign, you have the opportunity to let your elected officials at all levels of government know the social and economic impact of Canada's theatre sector.

This is an opportunity to celebrate the joy, value, and contribution of theatre on a local and national level. However, as we all come together to celebrate, there must be a strong call to action to raise awareness and support for the sector during this difficult time, ensuring officials at the municipal, provincial, and federal level are aware of the challenges the sector is facing.

Your email will be sent to your federal, provincial, and municipal representatives. We need many voices involved in this effort to make a larger impact for the Canadian theatre sector, including yours.

Please read the letter carefully. You can edit the text.
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If you have any questions about the letter please reach out to the PACT team: info@PACT.ca

First Name *

Last Name *

Email Address *

Postal Code *

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Dear [recipient position will go here] [recipient name will go here],

Your Letter *

As your constituent I am writing you on an important matter for me and our community. As a result of years of public health restrictions on large gatherings, live theatres today are faced with hesitant audiences and dwindling support from sponsors, donors, and governments. At the same time, there have been significant increases in operating expenses so that many theatres are struggling to keep the lights on and doors open for audiences. There is an urgent call to action that without immediate support from all partners, Canada’s world-class theatre sector is at serious risk of more cancelations and permanent closures.

As our representative I would like to encourage you to show your support of the importance of the live performing arts in our society through the following:

1.	Arrange a visit in the near future to a theatre organization in your riding or a neighbouring community. You can find a list at: https://www.pact.ca/worldtheatreday

2.	Share your support of Canadian theatres through your communications channels using #RallyforTheatre

3.	Support increased public sector arts funding at all levels of government that keeps pace with inflationary pressures and invests in a thriving cultural industry.

With studies reporting a national rise in feelings of loneliness and isolation, Canada’s theatres offer an opportunity. Theatre is about connecting – the spark between audience and performers as the curtain rises, the shared experience as a community, and the conversations that linger after the final bow. In addition to fostering economic development through employment and tourism, our theatres play a vital role as places for community members to come together, to share, and be inspired.

The Impact of Canada’s Cultural Sector:
•   Canada’s theatres directly employed 26,711 people last year;
•   Canada’s cultural sector accounts for 2.3% of the country’s GDP;
•   Canada’s cultural sector employs 4.4% of Canadian workforce, more than the forestry and mining sectors combined;
•   Cultural tourists stay longer and spend nearly three-times more while they’re here, supporting other local businesses.

The current economic and social climate is disproportionately impacting some sectors. As a result of some of the longest and most restrictive lockdown measures in the world, Canadian theatres were among the hardest hit by the pandemic, and are still struggling significantly in the midst of recovery.

The State of Canadian Theatre:
•  Member theatres report a 35-41% increase in operating expenses since 2019 including a 17% rise in facility operating costs, and 23% in artistic expenses;
•  Audience participation remains 46% below 2019;
•  Philanthropic donations were down 45% in 2023;
•  Government funding for the arts has not grown with the sector, leading to significant inflationary devaluation.

Canada’s theatre sector is facing unprecedented strain and without immediate support from audiences, donors, sponsors, and government, many companies will close their doors for good. I hope we can count on your ongoing support towards Canada’s vibrant cultural landscape.

Sincerely,
[your name will go here]
[your email address will go here]
[your location will go here]

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This campaign is hosted by Professional Association of Canadian Theatres (PACT). We will protect your privacy, and keep you informed about this campaign and others.