Groups putting on events at Ladysmith’s Amphitheatre will now have the opportunity to use the facility more comfortably in rain or intense sun.
The town recently purchased an event tent that can be set up and taken down in around three hours. The structure is referred to as a saddlespan tent and is made from a tensile membrane structure. The tensioned membrane is made of fire retardant material and is stretched across an aluminum frame and supported by aluminum trussing.
“The Town of Ladysmith received the funding from the Island Coastal Economic Trust to add this amenity to Transfer Beach Amphitheatre, further enhancing our current community events and supporting visitor attraction," the Town of Ladysmith said in a statement. "The $50,000 grant through ICET’s Community Placemaking Program fully funded the purchase of the new outdoor public amenity.”
This past Wednesday Town of Ladysmith employees, along with a set-up crew from Nanaimo, did a trial run of erecting the structure at the amphitheatre. After the trials were finished staff estimated that between set-up and take down, it should only take about three hours.
“Due to the unique design and versatility, the saddlespan tent can be configured as a shade cover, allowing for uninterrupted views of the Ladysmith Harbour, or as a stage backdrop for concerts," the town said. "The structure is waterproof and able to stand up to high winds and other elements. The town envisions that the portable tent will improve the experience at our large community events such as Canada Day, the National Indigenous Peoples Day, Ladysmith Days.”
The structure will be available for other rentals at the Amphitheatre as well.
“Enhancing the vitality and adaptability of our amphitheatre through this unique project is a great addition to our waterfront,” said Ladysmith Mayor Aaron Stone.
Event organizers are encouraged to contact the town’s Parks, Recreation and Culture department for more details in regards to rental and other information about the tent. When not in use, the tent will be disassembled and safely stored to ensure the ongoing use and enjoyment of the waterfront space for visitors.
