A 25-acre sound stage is coming to Exhibition Park in Bayers Lake. Screen Nova Scotia, through it’s subsidiary Screen Nova Scotia Studios, Inc, will acquire the land to build the first-ever, purpose-built film and television soundstage.
SNS says it’s in a quiet area with a good proximity to amenities, highways, downtown, and Bayers Lake. They say the property will be good for the project’s first phase, future expansion, while leaving some area in its natural condition.
“After years of filming in old warehouses, off-season hockey rinks and curling clubs the construction of a dedicated, year-round soundstage is a huge and necessary step in continuing the evolution of the Nova Scotia film industry,” said Michael Volpe, President of Topsail Entertainment and Board of Director’s Chair for Screen Nova Scotia. “This will strengthen our competitiveness and generate economic and cultural benefits.”
Screen Nova Scotia will issue a Request for Expressions of Interest (REOI) as they look for partners to invest in the project, to help drive in forward. It’s expected on the company’s website, August 24, 2023.
“This soundstage will create more year-round jobs and draw even more productions to Nova Scotia’s growing film industry,” said Premier Tim Houston. “It’s a win for the province and a win for the industry, and we’re pleased to help this exciting project find a home.”
The province announced $8 million toward a soundstage just 16 months ago.