Manitoba Theatre For Young People Raises $9 Million For Capital Campaign
On Wednesday, September 10th, Manitoba Theatre for Young People (MTYP) announced the successful completion of the largest fundraising campaign in its forty-three year history. Outcomes of this historic campaign include modernization and renewal of MTYP’s purpose-built facility to build capacity, improve climate performance, and expand accessibility for future generations of young artists, audiences, and their families. The Play It Forward Campaign recently met and surpassed its $9 million goal, earmarking $1.5 million for debt elimination, $6.5 million for facility improvements, and $1 million to establish an endowed New Production Fund.
Play It Forward Campaign Co-Chairs, Matt and Jane Johnston were excited to bring the work they have been doing on behalf of MTYP to a successful conclusion. “It’s very meaningful to achieve this goal.” says Mr. Johnston, of Johnston Group. “We’re continually amazed by the generosity of the many community leaders who joined us in supporting MTYP. The Play it Forward Campaign will set the foundation for the next 25 years, ensuring that MTYP continues enriching the lives of young people across our Manitoba.”
Peter Janzen, Chair of MTYP’s Board of Directors, emphasized the value of the Play It Forward Campaign “This is a tremendous milestone for MTYP, reached with the generosity of many Manitobans and through significant support from Federal and Provincial Government partners. These remarkable investments strengthen not only MTYP, but the entire cultural sector that enriches our community.”
Over the past season, MTYP’s facility has been improved and modernized. This included greening, accessibility, and capacity-building renovations and upgrades that have resulted in a barrier free facility, an accessible and expanded Quiet Room, and the transformation of Richardson Hall to the Richardson Studio Theatre. The first play of MTYP’s new season, Gather, is set to open in this new performance space on October 3rd.
In addition, MTYP was able to retire the $1.5 million debt accumulated between 1998 and 2012, as well as establish a new $1 million MTYP Production Fund that will support new play development and production.
Manitoba Theatre for Young People is recognized as a leader in the development, creation, and presentation of professional, world-class theatre for children and youth, and the adults who care for them. MTYP shares innovative productions that spark exploration and imagination, presenting ideas and encouraging contemplation in ways that reflect and represent its young audiences. Grateful to be based in Treaty 1 Territory at 2 Forks Market Road, Winnipeg, Manitoba, MTYP annually reaches approximately 90,000 Manitobans through its productions and presentations on its Mainstage and tours, the largest theatre and drama educational programs serving children and teens in Canada, and the activities of numerous and varied community partners the facility is shared with.
