The Steinbach Arts Council (SAC) is moving beyond its building as programs continue to grow and space becomes limited.
Program coordinator Kristi Peters says the organization has reached full capacity, running more programs than ever before while balancing rentals, user groups, and special events.
“Our building is bursting at the seams,” says Peters. “We have very full capacity basically 24/7. We continually want to expand our workshops, but we have no more space to do so. So this year we are really trying to focus on our satellite programming.”
Three satellite locations this fall
To meet growing demand, SAC is partnering with Rest Haven Care Home, Fernwood Place, and Mennonite Heritage Village (MHV) to host workshops. Peters says these spaces were chosen because of their accessibility and the strong partnerships already in place.
“For places like Rest Haven and Fernwood, it’s a really good opportunity to provide programming directly to their residents,” she explains. “Some residents don’t have the mobility to leave their building, so this way they can take part right where they live.”
Workshops include a Filipino Parol Christmas lantern-making class at MHV, Métis finger weaving at Fernwood, and a driftwood wind chime workshop at Rest Haven.
Peters adds that SAC hopes to expand to even more community locations in the future.
New developments at SAC
Along with satellite programming, SAC is expanding its long-running Backyard Theatre Company by adding a musical theatre program.
“This will highlight all the different skills kids can learn under a few different instructors,” says Cassandra Kornelsen, Manager of Community Programs at the Steinbach Arts Council. “There are no auditions—it’s about building skills, singing, dancing, and having fun.”
Kornelsen says the new program will complement existing opportunities in Steinbach and provide another entry point for young performers.
She notes that interest in theatre and musical programming is consistently strong in the community.
Looking ahead
Both Kornelsen and Peters say the main challenge for SAC is space, but it is a challenge they welcome.
“We have some really good problems on our hands,” says Kornelsen. “The pottery program is exploding, culinary arts continues to grow, and now we’re planning ahead into next summer and fall to make sure we’re prepared.”
SAC also keeps an ongoing list of local artists who express interest in teaching, which Kornelsen says helps keep programming fresh and community-driven.
“The growth excites us,” she says. “It’s such a great feeling to see so many people come through the Steinbach Arts Council and to expand opportunities across the community.”
-With files from Carly Koop.