Courtenay Annual Report 2025 draft

Cultural organizations The City of Courtenay owns and maintains three major cultural facilities in the downtown core: the Sid Williams Theatre, Courtenay and District Museum and Palaeontology Centre, and the Comox Valley Centre for the Arts. Each facility is operated through formal agreements with independent non-profit societies, governed by their own boards of directors. Through these agreements, the City provides operating and management grants in exchange for the delivery of core arts and culture services on behalf of the community.

As non-profit operators, these organizations leverage City support to expand programming, secure external funding and broaden their reach — strengthening their role as anchor institutions within Courtenay’s cultural district. In 2025, the City renewed or extended agreements with the Comox Valley Art Gallery (CVAG), and Sid Williams Theatre Society, reaffirming their essential contributions to cultural vitality, community access and a vibrant downtown.

Renewed agreement supports Sid Williams Theatre upgrades The City of Courtenay continues to provide both financial and in-kind support to ensure the theatre’s long-term sustainability. This includes renewing its five-year License to Occupy and Grant Agreement with the Sid Williams Theatre Society (SWTS), supporting the continued management and operation of this vital performing arts venue. Serving the Comox Valley since 1971, the 500-seat Sid Williams Theatre plays a central role in the region’s cultural and economic life. In 2025, the theatre welcomed more than 51,500 patrons and hosted 239 bookings, including performances, rehearsals and community events. The venue supports a wide range of uses — from community productions to professional performances and curated programming. In fall 2024, SWTS completed a major lighting grid upgrade valued at over $500,000, improving safety and expanding technical capabilities. The City contributed $100,000 toward this project.

Sid Williams Theatre Live performances Virtual performances Rehearsals, workshops, recording sessions

51,500

3

70

51,500

"Front door" public attendance

"Stage door" performer/ cast attendance Virtual event viewers

11,800

305

7,150

Volunteer hours

-

Superstar tickets

Ebony Roots performs at the Sid Williams Theatre

70 | City of Courtenay