Mississauga, ON – On Thursday, SAWITRI Theatre Group welcomed everyone in its newly renovated workspace as it celebrates 21 years of creating, producing, performing, mentoring and presenting in Mississauga. The renovations were made possible thanks to $180,000 in funding through two grants from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF)
“The SAWITRI Theatre Group has long been a beacon of arts and culture in Ontario, sparking creativity and building connections through its remarkable productions,” said Deepak Anand, MPP for Mississauga-Malton. “Thanks to the generous support of the Ontario Trillium Foundation, SAWITRI is set to transform its AN1 studio into a state-of-the-art space that will nurture artistic expression, create meaningful social and economic opportunities, and further enrich the vibrant arts community in Mississauga-Malton and across Ontario.”
In September 2023, SAWITRI Theatre renovated and equipped their AN1 Studio with new theatre curtains and risers as well as a new kitchenette, loft, and washrooms. The project was then supplemented by a $30,300 Capital grant which funded the purchase and installation of a new HVAC system as well as new projection and lighting equipment.
Founder and Artistic Co-Director of SAWITRI Theatre Group Jasmine Sawant said: “I am delighted that the Ontario Trillium Foundation has supported the renovation and equipping of AN1 Studios as it will address a community need of a well-equipped performance space and provide increased opportunities for creativity and social and economic well-being of South Asian and other creatives as well as their audiences.”
For more information, please visit sawitri.ca and follow SAWITRI Theatre Group on Instagram and Facebook.
“Whether it’s helping people learn new things, connect with their community, or simply have fun, organizations like SAWITRI Theatre Group deliver experiences that make a difference,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “That’s why grant support through the Ontario Trillium Foundation is so important. This funding will help ensure they remain at the heart of the community for decades to come.”
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. Last year, OTF invested more than $110M into 1,044 community projects and multi-sector partnerships. Projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to come together and connect, and create a more sustainable environment. Visit otf.ca to learn more.