Lights! Camera! Open for Business! The Canada-Saskatchewan Soundstage officially opened its doors today, signaling another step forward for Saskatchewan's film and video industry.

Saskatchewan Premier Lorne Calvert joined with Public Works and Government Services Canada Minister Ralph Goodale, on behalf of Stephen Owen, Secretary Of State (Western Economic Diversification) (Indian Affairs and Northern Development), and Regina Mayor Pat Fiacco to officially open one of Canada's most modern film, video and new media production facilities.

The $11.9 million, 82,000 square foot facility is a state-of-the-art production and training space that provides Saskatchewan and the film and television industry with an opportunity to continue to diversify its economy. Saskatchewan is home to over 40 film, television and post-production businesses that brought $239 million of production to our province from 1993 to 2001. The Canada-Saskatchewan Soundstage accelerates growth in the industry, maximizes previous investments and creates new value-added activities through collaboration, education and new opportunities.

"With the opening of the soundstage, this province has become a world class film location," Premier Lorne Calvert said. "We're not only creating an excellent environment for Canadian and foreign investment, but we're providing our young people with training opportunities and a chance to make their living at home."

"This centre is another example of how we can continue to develop the western Canadian economy by investing in innovative opportunities," said Minister Goodale. "We're building on previous funding for new media at the University of Regina, ensuring that Saskatchewan will be competitive in Canadian media production and education."

"The city of Regina is proud to be home to the new Canada-Saskatchewan Soundstage," Mayor Pat Fiacco said. "We believe this is a global investment for our city and our province. It's a signal, we are open for business, and we welcome the world to Regina, Canada's greatest City."

The Government of Canada and the Government of Saskatchewan each contributed approximately $3 million for the construction of the soundstage. The remainder will be funded by the film industry, with the City of Regina allowing a seven-year waiver of payments in lieu of property taxes.

For additional information, contact:

Joanne Mysak, Manager
Consultations, Marketing and Communications
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
(306) 975-5942

Wendy Campbell, Director
Communications Branch
Culture, Youth and Recreation
Regina, Saskatchewan
(306) 787-1062
World Wide Web site: http://www.cyr.gov.sk.ca/
 
Sandy Gousseau, A/Gen. Manager
Public Affairs Division
City of Regina
Regina, Saskatchewan
777-7486
www.cityregina.com