History
Norgan Theatre
... restoring a community tradition
Coming November 2nd, 2007!
Major renovations to the Norgan Theatre are now completed. We hope to offer our first showing on November 2 2007. With its re-opening, the Norgan will continue a 60-year tradition of providing entertainment to the movie lovers of the Minto community and area.
Original Crest of the Norgan Theatre
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In 1947, George Norgan (Nahrgang), a successful Vancouver businessman with roots in Palmerston, recognized the lack of leisure opportunities in his home town. He addressed this situation with a personal donation of $50,000 for the construction of a movie theatre, the Norgan Theatre which bears his name. The theatre opened August 18 1947 with 5,000 people attending various events. For six decades, the Norgan has served its community, bringing Al Jolson, Ginger Rogers, Elvis, Luke Star Wars and countless other attractions to area film fans.
On more than one occasion, municipal politicians and residents have confirmed the importance of the Norgan Theatre to the community and rallied to its support. The Norgan is now one of the few remaining municipally owned theatres in Ontario. In addition to a restoration grant, the Town of Minto also funded a loan which must be repaid within 15 years. A total of $90,000 must be repaid, through theatre revenue and individual and corporate donations. Donations, which are tax-deductible, may be made at any time; public recognition will be in accord with donor wishes.
Community volunteers have played a critical role in the restoration of the theatre. They have served on the Ad Hoc Norgan Committee, participated in fundraising events and supplied work crews for the actual reconstruction. Volunteers will continue to be involved in the daily operation of the Norgan as ticket sellers, confection booth staff, matinee monitors and future projectionists.
To volunteer or for more information on the donation program, contact
Bob McEachern,
Chair of the Norgan Theatre Board
519-343-3435 or
Town of Minto, 519-338-2511
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