REGINA — The Government of Saskatchewan is providing one-time emergency funding of $200,000 to the Regina Symphony Orchestra (RSO.
The organization is facing financial challenges that threaten its future and this investment will help the RSO avoid insolvency and work toward financial stability, according to a government press release.
"The RSO, in common with similar orchestras across Canada, has emerged from the pandemic with diminished audiences and increased inflationary expenses,” RSO Board Chair Ian Yeates said
“Losses over the past three years have endangered the survival of the 115-year-old RSO that has been a cornerstone of Regina's and south Saskatchewan's cultural scene. We will continue our appeals to our supporters and our donors, and work to increase attendance at our concerts. This contribution from the Saskatchewan Government will provide breathing room to assist the RSO's survival into the immediate future."
The RSO has a long history of connecting people to the arts through performances and education, the release states. Musicians employed with the RSO teach music lessons to hundreds of children across southern Saskatchewan.
For orchestral non-profits such as the RSO, ticket prices cover only about 25 to 30 per cent of operating expenses, which include venue costs and salaries for staff and musicians. Fundraising initiatives are essential to make up the difference.
Over the next few months, the organization will work to modernize its business model, launch new fundraising initiatives and reach out to the community to help people rediscover the symphony and all it has to offer.
For more information on the Regina Symphony Orchestra, visit: https://reginasymphony.com.
