By Spencer Sterritt

Celebrations expand in Nanaimo for Canada’s 150th birthday

Feb 7, 2017 | 4:11 PM

NANAIMO — Thanks to assistance from Nanaimo’s city council, local celebrations of Canada’s 150th birthday will be bigger than anticipated.

At city council last night, 150th celebration planning co-chairs Diana Johnstone and Wally Wells asked for $75,000 from council to fund a new theatre production called the Legacy Show, more events and a substantial fireworks display.

Johnstone said they want to tell Nanaimo’s story through the Legacy Show, which is a musical revue called Blackstones and Bathtubs.

“Join the rumble and tumble and board the Dream of Nanaimo as the city’s ancient roots, explosive history and quirky culture spring to life,” she told council about the play.

They were persuaded by her colourful description of the event and voted in favour of granting the money.

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This isn’t the first time the City has given money for the event. In 2016, $5,000 was provided with a $30,000 commitment already planned for 2017. The additional funding brings the total for $110,000 for the celebration.

Johnstone said they’re also campaigning for outside funds and contributions to supplement existing funding.

Though the event isn’t for months, Johnstone told NanaimoNewsNOW they’re under pressure for funds since they need to rehearse the play and have made commitments to buy supplies such as fireworks.

“We want this to be one of the largest, most spectacular celebrations out city has ever seen,” she said.

For herself, Johnstone said her passion for the celebration comes from the dedication she sees in the volunteers helping with the planning. “They do it for the pure love of doing it. They love our community and we want to see people come and enjoy what we see here.”

spencer.sterritt@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @spencer_sterrit