Minister opens new Waterside Theatre

Arts Minister Nelson McCausland today officially opened the newly refurbished Waterside Theatre in Londonderry.

Speaking during the opening Minister McCausland said: “The Waterside Theatre is one of a number of projects that received funding from the £4million North West Challenge Fund which was announced in December 2005. We have made significant progress since then and the new Gateway Studio, along with the refurbished foyer, box office and coffee bar is evidence of this.

“My Department contributed over £800,000 to this project and I welcome the tangible results that have been produced. Londonderry needs a facility like the Waterside Theatre which I am sure will have a positive impact on the lives of both local people and visitors alike. This city has long been known for its artistic and creative talent and the Waterside has been an important contributor to that reputation.

“DCAL has made a significant contribution to the improvement of our arts infrastructure throughout Northern Ireland. This demonstrates the Government’s commitment to investing in local arts and the recognition of the array of social, economic and physical benefits that the investment generates.

“Only last week I attended the unveiling of the threshold stone at the Lyric in Belfast, which DCAL committed over £9million funding for. This investment in arts venues here in Londonderry and across Northern Ireland, is essential to maximise the benefits from the growth in cultural tourism.”

Also speaking at the opening, Brian Sore, Board Member, Arts Council of Northern Ireland said: "As funder and supporter of the Waterside Theatre for many years, we are delighted to see this project coming to fruition. The refurbishment of the building will make a major contribution to the delivery of the arts in the area, making this venue an invaluable part of the cultural infrastructure in Northern Ireland."

The Minister concluded by congratulating Glen and Iain Barr and their team at the theatre for all their hard work, enthusiasm and commitment to the project and wished the theatre well in its future endeavors. The Minister also commended the performance given by the International School for Peace Studies which gave a snapshot of the full production of ‘We were brothers’ which will run as part of the theatre’s programme in November.

Notes to editors:

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