In a behind-the-scenes look at the world of local theatre, the Huron Country Playhouse shed light on the community connections that help keep their doors open.
Natasha Hopf, Human Resources and Artistic Administrator with Drayton Entertainment, says that their Performer Room and Board Program has become a vital component of their success.
The program provides accommodations for artists, crew members, and musicians by billeting them with local families – around 20 housing partners in the Grand Bend area offer their basement apartments, granny suites, or spare bedrooms for affordable rent to artists a few weeks at a time,
Due to the popularity of short-term rentals, rural communities like Grand Bend have seen a lot of their housing supply gobbled up,
An example of what performers see in Drayton’s Housing listings
Hopf says that when she started coordinating housing for Drayton almost a decade ago, short term rentals were a much smaller player in the game, and the landscape has changed substantially since.
Despite misconceptions about the workers financial capabilities, most performers are unable to pay the prices that most short term rentals are listed at,
Hopf emphasizes that the program’s importance has grown as short-term rentals become pricier. While hosts earn a modest fee, it’s about supporting the arts, not making a profit,
Performers lodging in the area work at the Playhouse in Grand Bend.
With an approximate price point of $120-$150 per week, hosts can contribute to the local arts scene while creating memorable connections with artists and performers.
If you’re interested in hosting performers and live close by, you can always contact Drayton to see about becoming a housing partner.
Written by: B. Shakyaver
