Nelson Civic Theatre Society (NCTS), in collaboration with the City of Nelson, is proud to announce their receipt of the 2025 Rob Stewart Sustainability Award at ShowCanada, the national convention for the Canadian film exhibition industry, presented by the Movie Theatres Association of Canada. This esteemed award recognizes their shared commitment to environmental and social sustainability in the ongoing revitalization of the historic Civic Theatre.

Named in honour and memory of the late filmmaker and environmental activist Rob Stewart, the award spotlights projects that drive positive change in their communities. This year’s recognition celebrates the extensive green upgrades and accessibility improvements undertaken and underway at The Civic Theatre, a cherished cultural venue operating within the City-owned 1935-built Civic Centre.

Intended sustainability highlights of the project include:

• A 33.7% annual reduction in greenhouse gas emissions through modern HVAC systems and high-performance windows. The project will result in an annual reduction of natural gas consumption of 722 GJ (Gigajoules) and an annual emissions reduction of 36.2 tCO2e (tonne of carbon dioxide equivalent), representing a 25 year emissions reduction of 905 tCO2e.
• Major accessibility upgrades, including a LU/LA (Limited Use/Limited Application) elevator and accessible washrooms.
• Water conservation infrastructure, including low-flow toilets and a refill station.
• Preservation of heritage architecture while optimizing building efficiency.

This project received funding through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program - CleanBC Communities Fund, and development will continue this year to complete the full scope of The Civic Theatre’s upgrades with the support of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, the BC Rural Dividend Program, Columbia Basin Trust, BC Arts Council, BC Gaming Fund, and the support of private donors. NCTS also will continue fundraising this year to complete the full scope of the project.

“Rob Stewart believed in the power of storytelling to inspire environmental and social action – values that are at the heart of everything we do at NCTS,” said Eleanor Stacey, Executive Director of NCTS. “We’re deeply honoured to receive this award. It not only recognizes our board and staff team and our collaboration with the City on the revitalization of The Civic Theatre, but it also celebrates the determination of our entire community. It has been the collective vision, persistence, support, and partnerships that have continued to sustain this project through every challenge. Our goal is the same as it has been since the founding of NCTS in 2012: to ensure that The Civic Theatre remains not only a beloved and diverse cultural space, but also a model for sustainable, inclusive infrastructure in small communities.”

Nelson Mayor Janice Morrison emphasized the importance of collaboration: “This project is a shining example of what’s possible when a city and a non-profit work together. The Civic Theatre holds an irreplaceable place in our city’s history and its future. By investing in sustainable upgrades and preserving our heritage, we’re ensuring that this facility serves generations to come - with greater efficiency, accessibility, and heart.”

The Rob Stewart Sustainability Award was presented to NCTS Executive Director Eleanor Stacey during ShowCanada’s opening night celebration at the Victoria Conference Centre on May 27, 2025, where professionals from across North America gathered to celebrate innovation in film and community engagement.

Photo: Eleanor Stacey in front of Victorian-style AI-generated portraits of award winners at the ShowCanada Gala, May 27, 2025. Photo credit: Tara-Lee Novak