Rio Tinto, Diffusion Saguenay and Cégep de Jonquière join forces to offer added value to Media Arts and Technology students
Saguenay, Quebec – Rio Tinto, the Cégep de Jonquière and Diffusion Saguenay announced today the creation of an audiovisual recording laboratory in the new Théâtre Palace Arvida. This recording space, unique in Quebec, will be built thanks to a $180,000 financial contribution from Rio Tinto, which becomes the project's first private partner. It will mark the beginning of a new chapter in the history of the theatre, a significant regional icon.
This new laboratory designed to host a mobile control room will reproduce a professional work environment and bring added value to the training of Media Arts and Technology students. Five to six cameras will be installed throughout the theatre during the recordings, giving students greater latitude in their editing and production choices. This accessible location, close to the Cégep de Jonquière, will be directly linked to the educational activities. For students, the cultural recordings at the Théâtre Arvida Palace will multiply opportunities for filming in real-life situations.
Raynald Thibeault, General Manager of the Cégep de Jonquière, said: “Today, the Cégep de Jonquière is pleased to announce this partnership which will create educational and cultural benefits for the entire region. The Théâtre Palace Arvida will be a true living laboratory where we can teach and learn in an environment that meets the highest theatre standards, while being in contact with artists, professional production teams and the public.”
Sébastien Ross, Rio Tinto’s Managing Director, Quebec Operations, added: “The Théâtre Palace Arvida is an important part of the local heritage, and with the creation of this new recording laboratory, this magnificent cultural venue will add an educational dimension to its mission. The Palace will provide an unparalleled learning experience for students at the Cégep de Jonquière. Rio Tinto is extremely proud to contribute to giving it a second life as the project's first private partner.”
The Palace, a priority for the community
A cultural meeting place since its construction in 1927, the Théâtre Palace is one of the rare jewels of artistic heritage that has retained its unique cachet. Over the years, the people of the Jonquière area have made the "Palace" their own and this place has become a true place of discovery. More than just a concert hall, the Théâtre Palace is an essential part of community life on Davis Square.
Built by Alcan, now Rio Tinto, this former movie theatre allowed people to discover exclusive Hollywood productions. It quickly became the preferred entertainment hub in the region. Rio Tinto's financial involvement will enable Diffusion Saguenay to continue to rebuild history, and to give back part of its origins to this jewel located in the heart of Davis Square.
Phil Desgagné, President of Diffusion Saguenay, said: “Diffusion Saguenay is particularly proud today to finally realize this dream of making the Théâtre Palace a place of learning and development. Considered for the past two decades as the home of Québec Issime, this venue has seen the birth of numerous creations and has trained hundreds of art workers. This unique venue will now enable us to explore the technological and digital aspects of the performing arts as soon as it opens.”
About the renovation of the Théâtre Palace
Renovation work on Théâtre Palace began on October 31. The project represents an investment of $7.7 million dollars. The City of Saguenay, the Quebec Ministry of Culture and Communications and Canadian Heritage are providing part of the funding for the project ($2,916,000, $2,350,000 and $1,650,000 respectively). Diffusion Saguenay will contribute financially along with other partners to complete the funding. The reopening of the theatre is scheduled for next fall.
Contacts
Rio Tinto
Malika Cherry
M: +1 418 592 7293
Diffusion Saguenay
Claude Bourdages
M: +1 418 815 1599
cbourdages@diffusion.saguenay.ca
Cégep de Jonquière
Sabrina Potvin
M: +1 418 540 2497
Sabrinapotvin@cegepjonquiere.ca
Category: Saguenay