A core Swift Current arts organization is facing financial challenges, putting it at great risk of ceasing to exist. 

Executive Director of Blenders Events, Amanda Girardin, has noticed the struggle is not only local but nation-wide for arts and cultural programs.  

“A lot of it is just due to not having the same audience base come out as we were used to pre-pandemic,” said Girardin. "That doesn't just translate into ticket sales, but that also affects things like bar sales, merchandise sales, and everything else that happens at the concerts as well. It really has impacted us over the last year and a half, two years with reduced numbers at both the festivals as well as the Blenders Concert Series.” 

The not-for-profit consists of two employees who arrange all the programming for Blenders and the Windscape Kite Festival, with help from volunteers throughout the year. 

Funding primarily comes through grants as well as sponsorships, donations, and revenues from events.  

An online donation option has been set up on their website, and thanks to the City of Swift Current donors are able to receive tax receipts. 

“I just want to highlight that if you're not able to make a donation, that's maybe not within your budget, but you have some money for entertainment, come on out to a concert,” said Girardin. “We have some great concerts still in the fall. We're really excited...and we're hoping to add a few extra things to some of the concerts as well, so come on out for a great night.” 

Indie folk rock artist wiL is the next show set for October 14, followed by the vintage blues sound of Belle Plaine and Swift Current’s own Dillon Currie on November 18. 

While the Lyric Theatre undergoes upgrades, the Blenders Concert Series will be held at Great Plains College.  

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