Dear Minister Fir,

I am pleased to sign this community support letter in strong advocacy for Rapid Fire Theatre’s application to the Community Facility Enhancement Program, which will fund the completion of Phase 2 renovations at their home in Edmonton’s Old Strathcona neighborhood.

Rapid Fire Theatre has long been an integral part of Alberta’s arts and cultural community. Through its performances, educational programming, youth initiatives and community engagement, the organization has created opportunities for hundreds of thousands of Albertans to connect, learn and experience the life-changing benefits of live theatre.

Recognized internationally for high calibre, hilarious improvised performances, RFT is a leader in this Alberta-developed performance art. Beyond these acclaimed performances, Rapid Fire provides valuable programming that develops creativity, communication, collaboration and confidence. Its workshops and outreach initiatives serve individuals, schools, businesses and community organizations, demonstrating that the impact of the arts extends well beyond the stage.

An investment in Rapid Fire Theatre’s facility is an investment in the future of our community. Unlocking the full potential of the space will allow the organization to expand its programming, improve accessibility, increase participation and continue serving a growing and diverse audience for years to come. A strengthened facility will also help ensure that Rapid Fire Theatre remains a vibrant cultural hub that supports artists, educators, students, community partners and local economic activity.

The impact of this project is concrete and measurable. Rapid Fire already produces more than 400 shows a year and has rebuilt its audience to well above pre-pandemic levels, with attendance currently running 13.1% above its 12-year trend at a time when Canadian theatres on average are still recovering to 2019 levels. With an average ticket price of just $14.35, RFT remains one of the most affordable and accessible cultural experiences in the province. Completing the facility will add roughly 25,000 visitors annually, create five new full-time positions and over 40 construction jobs, allow RFT to double its Edmonton Fringe Festival programming from 90 to 180 performances, and generate over $13 million in local economic activity within five years, as supported by the Old Strathcona Business Association. That means every dollar of this grant will generate $13 in economic activity for Alberta by year five. This return on investment is further supported by Alberta’s Arts Impact Report 2025 which states that every $1M invested in Alberta’s arts organizations supports 195 full-time equivalent local jobs. Few investments of this size deliver such a direct, documented return to an Alberta community.

Rapid Fire Theatre has consistently demonstrated a commitment to artistic excellence, innovation and community building. Their work enriches Alberta’s cultural landscape while creating meaningful opportunities for learning, collaboration and connection.

I am pleased to offer my full support for Rapid Fire Theatre’s Community Facility Enhancement Program application and respectfully encourage your favourable consideration of this request.

Thank you for your time and consideration.