Press Release
U.S. EDA Promotes Creede, Colorado's Theatre Arts Industry
September 3, 2010
Contact: John Atwood, (202) 482-4085
WASHINGTON - The U.S. Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) today announced a $350,000 grant to the Creede Repertory Theatre of Creede, Colo., to renovate the interior space of an existing building for use as a year-round theater.
"By leveraging its cultural assets, Creede will spur tourism and attract businesses and jobs," said U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development John Fernandez. "This EDA investment will allow Creede Repertory Theatre to remain a major player in the region's tourism industry cluster."
"This important EDA funding will enable the Creede Repertory Theatre's Second Stage Theater to shine as a prime example of how investing in the creative industries can promote the cultural and economic vitality of a region," says Creede Repertory Theatre Executive and Artistic Director, Maurice LaMee. "Not only does this project benefit the residents of Creede, Colorado and the tens of thousands of annual visitors, but it broadly impacts Southwest Colorado by growing tourism in the region, attracting entrepreneurs and commercial businesses, and improving the quality of life for rural Colorado citizens."
The EDA investment will be used to renovate the interior of an existing 5,000 square foot building to create an additional live-performance facility for the Creede Repertory Theatre Company. The project, which incorporates roof-mounted solar panels to power heating and cooling systems, will increase staging and audience capacity and allow for an extended theater season, all in support of a growing arts-related economy.
About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov ): This year, the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) marks 45 years of public service, with a mission of leading the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing American regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. EDA is an agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce that partners with distressed communities throughout the United States to foster job creation, collaboration and innovation.