The Other Guise Theatre Society is a step closer this week to realizing its dream of establishing an arts hub on Johnson Street.
The theatre company has signed an agreement with Thrive Impact Fund that will provide up to $400,000 in flexible debt financing to establish the space at 716 Johnson St. as a performing arts venue.
The theatre company has been raising money to repay a $1.8-million loan it was given in 2022 when it bought the former Tomley Market building. Kate Kempton, who provided the forgivable loan to purchase the building, is now ill and has been forced to recall the loan.
“I have long had a vision for a performing arts hub in downtown Victoria and this project is finally realizing that dream. While I can’t provide the level of financial support I had intended to, I still believe this is an ideal place to give performing arts a stable home in Victoria,” said Kempton, adding she hopes local businesses and government will step in.
The Thrive Impact Fund invests in and supports non-profit, co-operative and for-profit social enterprises that generate social, environmental or cultural benefits.
Matthew Payne, artistic director of Other Guise, said they have already paid back about $550,000, and are hoping the City of Victoria will come through with a $250,000 grant from its Major Community Initiatives and Events Grant Program.
Payne said if the city approves the $250,000 award, the theatre will only have to raise about $600,000, now that Thrive has come aboard.
“Several things are in the works to move us closer to our goal. Overwhelmingly we are hearing this is something that the community wants and believes in. And the research shows it is needed,” he said.
The project would see the existing building converted into three performance spaces and two rehearsal spaces, as well as office work spaces. The venue would be tailored to smaller professional productions that struggle to find affordable places to produce and present work. The top floor of the building is leased by Raino Dance.
Victoria council will make its decision on the grant Dec. 12.
The Other Guise also issued a public call for support this week. To donate, visit or go to the charity’s sa国际传媒 Helps page at .
