Eleanor Pickup Arts Centre

The Eleanor Pickup Arts Centre (EPAC) is a Canadian nonprofit organization and registered charity dedicated to promoting and supporting the performing arts in Drayton Valley, Alberta, and the surrounding Brazeau County. Established in 2006, the Centre operates out of a historic landmark building originally known as the Cardium Theatre, which was repurposed to serve as a community arts venue.

History

The Eleanor Pickup Arts Centre was founded following a resolution by the Drayton Valley Town Council to purchase and preserve the Cardium Theatre, a significant cultural and architectural landmark initially built in 1956. The Cardium Theatre functioned as a family-run movie theatre for 50 years until 2006, when plans for a new multi-plex theatre prompted the community to find an alternative use for the historic site. The initiative aimed to save and restore the building, investing in local arts and community development.

The Centre is named in honor of Eleanor Pickup, a respected community leader in Drayton Valley who passed away in 2006. Her legacy is reflected in the Centre’s commitment to fostering arts participation and preserving the town’s cultural heritage.

Mission and Activities

The primary mission of the Eleanor Pickup Arts Centre Society is to encourage greater participation in the performing arts locally and provincially, while preserving the historic integrity of the Cardium Theatre building. The Society, composed of dedicated volunteers, manages the Centre’s operations, fundraising, renovations, and community programming.

The Centre serves as a versatile venue hosting a variety of activities including:

• Performing arts such as music, drama, and dance
• Festivals and special cultural events
• Fundraisers and community gatherings
• Municipal, church, and organizational meetings

It is also available for private and corporate events like weddings, memorials, reunions, and recitals. Renovations and upgrades continue to enhance the facility’s capacity as a vibrant community arts hub.

Facilities and Cultural Impact

Maintaining the historical façade of the Cardium Theatre, the Centre has become a focal point in downtown Drayton Valley, blending heritage preservation with modern arts programming. The Society fosters community involvement through volunteerism and aims to expand the Centre’s service offerings.

By providing a dedicated space for the performing arts and other community events, the Eleanor Pickup Arts Centre plays a vital role in the cultural life of Drayton Valley and Brazeau County, supporting the arts as a vital element of local identity and social cohesion.

Business Registration Number: 854875994RR0001

Status: Registered Canadian charity[2][3][5]