Re: ‘The Final Curtain’ (PQB News, Feb. 2)
I read with interest the front-page article and its related letters of concern about the demise of Bard to Broadway (B2B).
On behalf of ECHO Players, I would like to acknowledge the incredible contribution that B2B have made to the cultural life of Parksville Qualicum Beach during the last 20 years or so. Between ECHO Players and Bard to Broadway, our communities have had a wonderful variety of quality live theatrical performances during the entire year.
I venture to say that few smaller towns and cities in our province have had this opportunity. Many of our talented thespians, whether on stage or backstage, have been involved with both groups and Bard to Broadway have contributed greatly to our youth through their excellent educational programs. So many of our young people have gone on to further education in the performing arts because of this.
While we regret their demise, we salute their energy, talent and commitment to our region. I can assure your readers that, despite this sad news, community theatre is alive and well in Parksville Qualicum Beachanside as ECHO Players continues to offer a season of four productions and more.
We are currently planning our 2022-23 season. Our president, vice president and treasurer are in talks with board representatives from B2B on ways to preserve some of their contribution to the arts in our community.
In terms of legacy, we are also working with them to ensure that the investments they have made in youth theatre live on, as we explore continuing their excellent summer educational theatre programs and maintaining scholarships and/or bursaries. While we will miss our regular summer tenant and the great entertainment they have provided over the last two decades, we recognize it does open up opportunities for us to consider how our playbill might develop and expand in years to come.
We welcome all of B2B’s talented people to join us in maintaining and enhancing a significant artistic profile.
Alistair McVey, President
ECHO Players Society
Qualicum Beach