By David F. Rooney
The School District 19 Board of Trustees is considering a proposal to allow alcohol at appropriate events in the new performing Arts Centre.
The proposal was brought forward during last Wednesday board meeting and was supported by Chairman Alan Chell and Councillors Jeff Nicholson and Brian Dubasov. Trustee Mauro Morrone opposed this proposed new policy and Councillor Elmer Rorstad was undecided.
Trustees did not vote on the proposal. However, they referred it to Superintendent Mike Hooker and SD 19 staff for comment. Performing arts and traditionally su
“The Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre is set up to host performing arts events and traditionally events such as these serve alcohol, be it a glass of wine during the interval at a theatre show or a beer at a comedy show,” the proposed pro-alcohol policy said. “It is seen as a sophisticated and pleasant addition to an evening out. During an interval of 15 or 20 minutes there is only time to consume one drink and no alcohol is served after a show.”
The Arts Council, which manages the centre, created the proposal. It would apply under certain conditions that include:
- Alcohol cannot be consumed during school hours or before 7 pm;
- RSS senior staff must sign off on any events where alcohol will be consumed in order to prevent a student presence in the foyer at those events; and
- Alcohol will be available 30 minutes before a show and during intermissions, which will be limited to 20 minutes. No alcohol will be served after events and alcohol supplies will be supervised at all times.
The Arts Council said the Centre is in danger of losing some prestigious events because of the current no-alcohol policy. The Banff Mountain Film Festival is one potential event that is now going to be held at The Roxy on Thursday, September 19. The Snowed In Comedy Tour has enquired about performing at The Centre twice in the last two years. While The Centre is their preferred venue, they want to serve alcohol.
The Revelstoke Arts Council estimates that it loses one event a month because of the no-alcohol policy. Over the life of its September to May season that is equal to about $3,600.
