A new initiative to engage the performing arts sector
in building positive change through collaboration and innovation
(Kjipuktuk/Halifax, NS – April 14, 2021) Neptune Theatre and Prismatic Arts Festival today announced a creative partnership for the mutual benefit of both companies and the regional creative arts community. Prismatic will become the Company in Residence at Neptune, collaborating to establish an accessible and inclusive cultural hub in the heart of Kjipuktuk/Halifax. The partnership will also see Prismatic’s annual festival (an artist-centred festival that brings innovative work by leading Indigenous artists and artists of colour from across Canada to the stage), anchored at Neptune.
The companies will forge a shared vision to best serve the needs of artists and audiences across the province and throughout the region. The partnership is a critical step in creating a space in Nova Scotia’s arts community where all are welcome to learn, experience, work, create and build a sustainable arts practice.
“As a leading arts organization in Atlantic Canada, Neptune needs to advance change in our sector to address systemic barriers that have stifled creative voices,” says Neptune’s artistic director Jeremy Webb. “Social values and cultural interests are changing; this partnership is a great opportunity to tackle the issues faced by our sector by creating space. A willingness to learn and explore is the way forward for the arts, so that we continue resonating with our audiences.”
“Prismatic exists to create a necessary platform to showcase and uplift the voices of Indigenous artists and artists of colour,” says Raeesa Lalani, Prismatic’s artistic director. “It’s about community, collaboration, and the artists. We are thrilled to be building this relationship with Neptune Theatre with the aim of establishing a cultural hub where ALL are welcome in the space.”
Both organizations see this partnership as an opportunity to broaden connection with artists and audiences, to help build a sustainable performing arts sector by further exploring and developing work that is vital to keeping the arts relevant, accessible and reflective of the community.
“One of the best aspects of life in Halifax/Kjipuktuk is its vibrant arts scene; we really punch above our weight!” states Dr. Jacqueline Warwick, Chair of Prismatic Board. “This is possible because of the extraordinary spirit of generosity and collegiality in our various arts organizations, who share resources and help one another out. The partnership of Neptune Theatre and Prismatic Arts Festival is an emblem of how arts institutions lift one another up, to the benefit of everyone.”
“We don’t want to react to change; we want to lead through change and to do this we need to build capacity in the performing arts,” says Paul LaBerge, board chair of Neptune Theatre. “I believe that this partnership will not only help both organizations flourish, by creating a safe space for collaboration and the development of new work, it will also help strengthen our community.”
Neptune and Prismatic partnered to present two productions (Finding Wolastoq Voice and Huff) during Neptune’s 2020-2021 season. The pandemic prevented these plans from going forward. Looking to support artists during this time, the two organizations modified Neptune’s Open Spaces program in September 2020 to make performance and rehearsal space available to underserved artists. More than 20 artists/organizations have benefitted from this collaboration during the pandemic.
With this new partnership, Prismatic, a festival based in downtown Halifax, will find its new home at Neptune Theatre. Neptune will provide an office, rehearsal and work space, as well as access to both Fountain Hall and the Scotiabank Stage for future performances and productions during its annual arts festival.
