The Capital Regional District has started a process to create a new funding program for regional theatres, though Salt Spring Island, British Columbia, has chosen not to participate. This new program would provide $2.3 million every year to support major venues and lower rental costs for community arts groups. While the program aims to help theatres in the region, Salt Spring Island leaders have opted out of the project for now.
The funding is intended for three specific locations: the Royal Theatre, the McPherson Playhouse, and the Charlie White Theatre in Sidney. While the Southern Gulf Islands are joining the program, Salt Spring Island and the Juan de Fuca area will not be included in the new tax-supported service. This decision means island residents will not see an estimated $12.43 increase on their annual property tax bills.
To move forward with the plan, the regional government is using a public feedback step called an Alternative Approval Process that runs from February 17, 2026, until March 30, 2026. Officials can adopt the new rules unless at least 10 per cent of eligible voters in the participating areas, or 31,574 people, submit forms to oppose the move. Because Salt Spring Island is not participating, local residents are not included in this specific feedback process.
If the service is approved by the other communities, it will offer rental grants to help local arts groups afford the cost of using these regional stages. These grants are expected to help bring between 60 to 80 more shows to the theatres each year. However, because Salt Spring Island is not part of the service, local groups from the island might not have access to these specific rental discounts when performing at the theatres in Victoria or Sidney.
