Looking forward to a new arts and events centre
To the Expositor:
In response to Steve Lindsey’s thoughtful letter about the Manitowaning waterfront (‘The SS Norisle gone, sights settle on the Burn’s Wharf Building’s’ The Expositor, October 11, 2023, Page 4), I would like to mention three things:
First, Mr. Lindsey points out that waterfronts can be reclaimed for community use, and specifically mentions concert venues. One of the buildings he refers to that “occupies” the waterfront is, in fact, a theatre called “Burns Wharf Theatre.” It is an intimate concert venue that has delighted performers and audiences alike for decades. It already exists on the waterfront, and I miss being able to use it.
Secondly, Mr. Lindsey suggests that the buildings need to be removed as past industrial buildings, so that the waterfront can be enjoyed by everyone. (Is the water treatment plant on this prime land less industrial?) People may not know that years ago the Burns Wharf Theatre building was offered to the Burns Wharf Theatre Players for $1. Frankly, one of the main reasons we declined to purchase the building was our belief that it is a public building for everyone, not just one group.
Finally, as regards a concert venue, I would look forward to seeing the Arts and Events Centre plans that Assiginack Township has commissioned. I think it would be nice to finish plans for making something before anything else gets destroyed.
Sincerely,
Ray Scott, music director
Burns Wharf Theatre Players
