Several parents,
organizations and people in
the community have
donated money, time and
resources
Above: The Addams Family Musical
Below: Working hard to get LAFA back
onstage!
and the “dirty work,” the atmosphere was bright and
the air filled with singing and laughing inside the
building and out in the drizzle.
“This is an opportunity for the kids and the
parents to come together because this is their family,”
said Ilijanich. “They can help and be a part of that
process, and I think that everyone involved is better for
it.” She said this was a great lesson for the children in
giving back to something they are so invested in.
LAFA works with more than 400 children each
year. They focus mainly on training and inspiring the
next generation of artists. Finlay said the atmosphere
they create is a really special place to be. “It’s kind of a
place where you can go and kind of let all your
troubles out and all your friends are supportive here,
they never judge you or anything.”
For now, LAFA is operating out of the Atlas Tube
Centre across the street from their building until
January 1, when the restoration will be complete
enough to resume classes at the Urban Field House. In
spite of the damages and discouragement the fire
brought, Ilijanich is overwhelmed by all the support
they have received from the community.
Several parents, organizations and people in the
community have donated money, time and resources.
About $6500 in funds has been donated collectively so
far.
The theatre community in Windsor has also
shown support to LAFA during this time. Kordazone
Theatre donated 20 per cent of their ticket sales from
one of their closing shows. Local professional artist
and theatre enthusiast Martin Oubliette also donated
to LAFA’s restoration fund. LAFA houses Fusion
Talent, Oubliette’s agency.
“LAFA is turning out strong young performers
and Fusion Talent is getting them work,” said
Oubliette. “That kind of success should be supported,
especially when difficult times happen.”
As a way to say thank you to the community for
their generosity and support, LAFA is putting on a free