If a performing arts centre is built in Kamloops, city staff are ensuring that the Sagebrush Theatre plans to be part of the fabric of the city long-term.

Councillor Bill Sarai asked the question at council yesterday, following presentations on the proposed Performing Arts Centre.

“The school district has 100 booked in there just on their own, and they’re almost biting to get more days there. And there’s smaller groups, that is a venue they’re comfortable with, whether that’s because of the fee that’s charged or the size.”

Director of community services Byron McCorkell says school groups and smaller groups will continue to use the Sagebrush. He says the theatre needs to be operating as long as it can be.

“We believe that Sagebrush will continue to be a very important part of the cultural facilities available. Yes, the school district is chomping for more space, yes they do currently get 100 days. That’s one of the reasons we have a fairly large space issue using Sagebrush. You’ve got a fairly large chunk of time already booked up.”

The Sagebrush Theatre, built in the 1960s, is co-owned by the city and the school district and seats 685 people.

A Performing Arts Centre proposed on Seymour Street and 4th Avenue would seat about 1,750 people between three venues, according to its business plan, with the largest seating about 1,200 people.