Steinbach Arts Council (SAC) Executive Director David Klassen says they see SAC evolving and growing, as over the last number of years there has been a significant increase in immigrant population. 

“We have found that our core programming is strong. Kids and community members want to participate in the programs that we have to offer, but we know that there's a need beyond that,” he says. “And so for us to pour into culture and heritage as a whole new sector in our programming and highlight those immigrant populations is exciting for us.” 

He is looking forward to seeing growth in regard to programming. 

“We are excited to get creative in terms of what sorts of recreational opportunities exist for the people that use our center. We want everybody to find something and it just stretches us enough. To be brave and to take a few risks. But to know that the idea for us is growth and meeting needs, and it really makes an impact in the community.” 

Klassen says they are working hard at ensuring everybody can participate in the arts. 

"We're working at scholarships. We're working at bursaries. We are continuing to maintain our after-school arts program, which is free for youth. These are all great things that we know will just continue to grow and be an integral part of what we can offer in the City of Steinbach and the region.” 

He is also excited for a new concert season in 2024. 

“We have been planning that anniversary year which for us is 45 in the next calendar year, so a new concert season, new performers, new presentations that we're that we're looking forward to presenting.” 

When asked about possible challenges in 2024, Klassen responded: 

“As a not-for-profit, charitable organizations are always going to have challenges. They're always going to be working through muddy waters in terms of funding and grants and finding the thing that's going to be the exact right balance for programming and execution,” he says. “But I think that as we look toward the next year and we look at growth, I think our challenge will continue to be facilitating the number of programs that we want to facilitate in this particular space.” 

Looking five to 10 years ahead, Klassen says they are aware they will need more square footage. 

For now, they are maximizing every inch. 

“That will continue to be something that we that we work with, but it's a very good problem to have. Our programs are successful and we are an integral part of what this community offers to its citizens and the region around us.” 

 

With files from Kenton Dyck

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