Was the Theatre sold?

No.  The Academy Theatre is still owned by the Academy Theatre Foundation and this sponsorship does not change ownership in any way shape or form.  The Theatre will continue to operate as a non-profit organization under the guidance of a dedicated Board of Directors in the same manner as it has been since the Foundation was formed in 1963.

Why is this necessary?

The Academy Theatre has always relied upon rental income and the generosity of donations from the public including the various local businesses throughout the community.  We have been very fortunate and appreciative of this support and we need it to continue in order to meet the financial demands of an aging Theatre.  Throughout the Covid forced closure of the Theatre, the Board of Directors has worked hard to develop a strategic plan in order to address the future needs and existing challenges in order to revitalize the venue and increase our ability to attract and retain high quality performances.  The Sponsorship program was designed to provide the opportunity for organizations to undertake various funding levels which are available on an escalating basis.  In addition, we encourage multi-year donations in order that we can have better cash flow which in turn, allows us to sustainably continue the re-investment in the Theatre.  Currently, we are addressing a prioritized list of deferred maintenance issues which we were not previously able to fund.  We will continue to need our existing sponsorship base and more long term sponsorship commitments in order to tackle these projects effectively.  We appreciate the support of the members, our Corporate sponsors, donors, and government grant programs equally.  Collectively, this keeps the Theatre “alive” and will provide an arts and entertainment venue for the community for generations to come.

What will I notice as a result of this major sponsorship?

Today’s press conference showed illustrations of the proposed changes to the marquee on the front entrance of the Theatre.  We have worked collaboratively with Flato on this design necessary to preserve the overall look, integrity, and history of the Theatre while at the same time acknowledging Flato as the naming rights sponsor.  The Academy Theatre name is prominently displayed and the new vertical signage now creates a traditionally vintage look of a performing arts facility and surely will be recognizable to the visitors of our community.  In addition to the new signage, Flato has been given rights to respectfully advertise within various areas of the Theatre and be identified in our social media and marketing material.

Who is Flato?

Flato Developments is a builder of communities across southern Ontario.  Currently, Flato is developing new housing projects in Lindsay and Cameron within Kawartha Lakes.  Flato is known for building high quality homes and investing in the communities that they serve.  Launched in 2005 and based in Markham, Flato has a great reputation in supporting community needs through generous donations to social needs.  Locally, Flato has already made donations to Ross Memorial Hospital, Kawartha Lakes Food Source and Fleming College.  Flato Developments commitment to their communities is unprecedented through their ongoing long term support necessary to make them great places to live, work, and play. 

For more information:  https://flatogroup.com/

Are they related to the Flato Markham Theatre?

Yes.  Flato Developments also has naming rights to the Markham Theatre in a similar type of agreement as what we have agreed to for the Academy Theatre.

What value does this provide the Academy Theatre?

The Flato Markham Theatre provided a great reference for us to verify Flato’s commitment to their sponsorship and ongoing association with theatre events.  The reference check was overwhelmingly positive and Flato has lived up to all their commitments and beyond.  Mutual premium sponsors will potentially allow us to share bookings and introduce new performance options for the Academy Theatre.

Is Naming Rights Sponsorship common for Theatre venues?

Yes.  Over the years, it is very common to have Naming Rights Sponsorships on theatre venues.  Meridian Hall formerly the Sony Centre for the Performing Arts, Canon Theatre (formerly the Pantages Theatre) now known as the Ed Mirvish Theatre are examples of corporations leveraging their brand through the sponsorship of theatre venues.  The Flato Academy Theatre Lindsay is no different.  Government funding to theatre venues has been consistently reduced where private sponsorships become imperative in order to keep pace with the financial challenges of operating a theatre.  Many theatres in smaller communities no longer exist due to insufficient funds and a lack of government subsidies.  We need sponsors in order to have a sustainable future and revitalize a Kawartha Lakes landmark which has created so many great memories for our community.

Will Flato have a management role in the theatre?

No.  Flato Development is a premium sponsor and will have no management role in the Theatre.  The Academy Theatre will continue to be managed by the General Manager and his staff governed by the Board of Directors.