The Oliver Theatre Society was thrilled when members of the Arts Council approached us to suggest they wanted to start a campaign to purchase a piano in the memory of Agnes Sutherland. A small grand piano for the theatre’s lobby would open up a whole range of programming possibilities which are best suited to a smaller, more intimate space than a 400 seat theatre. These include student piano recitals, morning or afternoon chamber concerts and a whole host of live music opportunities for receptions, parties and other lobby events.
At our April meeting the Theatre Society board approved the Arts Council’s campaign to raise the necessary funds to purchase a grand piano which we would house in the lobby. We are hoping that over the coming months members of both boards will work together to raise the funds and to select an appropriate piano for the memory of Agnes Sutherland.
Wendy Newman
Friends and family members recently gathered together to say goodbye to a much loved Oliver pioneer, Agnes Sutherland. Agnes passed away at the age of 99, leaving behind a lifetime of memories of contributions in her art, music and community activism.
A permanent memorial is planned to keep alive the memory of this remarkable woman. Plans are to purchase a baby grand piano for the lobby area of the Frank Venables Theatre. Agnes loved music in any form and playing the piano was one of her favorite pastimes. It seems fitting to be able to remember her talent and spirit in the impressive acoustical environment of our grand theatre lobby.
When approached, Wendy Newman, president of the Oliver Community Theatre Society was thrilled with the prospect of being able to use the lobby area to expand and encourage the musical arts while further developing the space as a rental unit. She presented the idea to the board who have since approved in principle, the acquiring this donation of a memorial piano.
Family, friends, former students and music lovers alike can make donations directly to the AGNES SUTHERLAND MEMORIAL at any Valley First Credit Union Account 2826758: Transit # 16650: Institute #809: or cheques can be mailed. Call Marion Trimble, 250-498-3933, for details.
Later this summer a couple of fund raising activities are planned to help in the process of purchasing this memorial gift. Agnes left many works of art, too many too many for family members to keep. It’s their wish to have a special Reception and Sale with proceeds going towards the piano purchase. Stay tuned as a summer hoedown of country music at Rustico Winery’s Quail’s Roost Gallery is also being considered.