PETERS: It’s time to strike up the band

Significant tours have booked shows for Kelowna, Prince George and even Vernon.

For the most part, Kamloops has heard crickets.

It’s unfortunate, and it brings us back to something that we last discussed almost exactly one year ago – a performing arts centre for Kamloops.

Don’t groan. Stop it.

The issue of borrowing to build a performing arts centre was about to go to referendum last spring when it became clear the COVID-19 pandemic would throw all our lives into turmoil.

The referendum was scrubbed amid talk that governments would be devastated financially.

COVID-19 did do a lot of damage, but we are beginning to recover and look to the future.

Last July, we spoke in this space about how a venue to develop and showcase performing arts such as music and theatre isn’t just a luxury – a nice-to-have.

Not only are performing arts absolutely essential to quality of life, a venue like this would be a major attraction and economic driver.

It’s not simply an expense; it’s an investment.

If Kamloops hopes to emerge stronger than ever from this huge challenge, it’s not too outlandish to suggest it get back to work on this potential crown jewel for the city.

Get the band back together this fall, have a proposal ready by New Year’s Day and set the referendum for next spring.

As COVID-19 exits stage left, we can lift the curtain on a new era of optimism for Kamloops.

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Editor’s Note: This opinion piece reflects the views of its author, and does not necessarily represent the views of CFJC Today or Pattison Media.

by James Peters

PETERS: It’s time to strike up the band

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