Stanstead’s Théâtre Sans Frontières to receive $2.1 million federal renovation grant

STANSTEAD, QC — The Théâtre Sans Frontières at the Stanstead Arts Centre is set to undergo extensive renovations thanks to a federal investment of more than $2.1 million, announced by the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Member of Parliament for Compton-Stanstead and Minister of National Revenue.

The funding, provided through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) program, will allow the theatre to host a greater variety of shows, film screenings, exhibitions, conferences, and other cultural events, enriching the cultural life of Stanstead residents and offering educational and artistic opportunities.

The renovation project includes modernizing the auditorium with the addition of 320 seats and a retractable screen for film presentations, as well as outfitting a mezzanine to accommodate Stanstead College students and the programming of the Arts Centre and several community groups. The building’s electrical and mechanical systems will also be upgraded to ensure efficient and sustainable operation.

In addition to its entertainment value, the renovated theatre is expected to serve as a driving force for the local economy, helping to revitalize downtown Stanstead and make it a prosperous border town.

Jody Stone, Mayor of Stanstead, praised the project.

“Gabriel Safdie and the Stanstead Arts Center are bringing back with this project a gathering place for the Arts to a modern theater with a lot of history,” Stone said. “This investment adds to our growing offering of cultural activities in Stanstead while helping the revitalization of the heart of our city.”

Gabriel Safdie, Director and Founder of the Centre des Arts de Stanstead, expressed gratitude for the grant, emphasizing the theatre’s commitment to ecological standards.

“With a vision aligned with ecological standards, our new theater will not only honor our past, but also embrace a sustainable future,” Safdie said. “Designed to be a vibrant space for Stanstead residents, students and visitors, the theater will serve as a pathway to cultural enrichment, providing the community and beyond with quality arts programming. We are delighted to embark on this transformative journey, marking a pivotal phase in the evolution of the Stanstead Arts Centre.”

The GICB program aims to improve community facilities across Canada by cutting pollution, reducing costs, and supporting thousands of good jobs while helping the country move towards its net-zero objectives by 2050.