Teck makes big donation to help restoration of Coleman theatre

By Lethbridge Herald on July 22, 2023.

Al Beeber
Lethbridge Herald

Tech Resources has donated a fistful of dollars to the revival of the historic Roxy Theatre in Coleman.

The company has announced it is donating $250,000 to support the restoration of the building “to help make it a vibrant, multi-use community performing arts space once again.”A fundraiser called “Fistfull of Dollars” was staged Wednesday in Coleman to help with restoration efforts of the 275-seat provincial historic site. The event was staged by the Crowsnest Cultural and Recreation Society in partnership with Teck.

Before the donation, it was estimated the work would take about $1.8 million to complete.

When restorations are finished the theatre will play host live performances and show movies once again. It will also be a space to stage community cultural events.

“Teck is committed to making a positive difference in the communities where we operate and knows the value of the performing arts like the Roxy Theatre in building lively communities where we live, work and play‚“ said Robin Sheremeta, Senior Vice President, Coal, Teck in a press release. 

“The revitalization of the Roxy Theatre will expand cultural experiences and amenities for residents and visitors to Coleman and Crowsnest Pass, home to nearly 500 Teck employees.”In that release, Crowsnest Cando president Tim Juhlin, said “Teck’s donation makes significant progress towards our fundraising goals.

“Once reopened, the Roxy Theatre will be a dynamic cultural hub and provide a much needed performing space for our growing arts community in Crowsnest and the Elk Valley.”The Quonset style theatre was built in 1948 and closed in 2003. The style, said the relesse, was popularized after the Second World War as the Canadian military sold off its surplus and decommissioned operations.

Exterior work is expected to begin next month.

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