Nicole Shaw, Community Relations Officer for the Mid Island Consumer Services Co-operative, says Western Edge Theatre is "a natural fit" with what the Co-op is trying to achieve in its sponsorship program.
100% community owned, The Co-op makes a point of "being representative of what is going on locally," Nicole says. 
Enthusiastically, she speaks of Western Edge Theatre being at the "cutting edge," and notes that the company works hard to feature local writers and employ local actors and musicians where possible in its innovative productions.
A painter herself, Nicole feels strongly that participation in the arts results in a whole, well-rounded way of being. Western Edge Theatre's use of the talent in the local community ties in naturally with her reasons for having the Co-op sponsor cultural groups (as well as children's groups, sporting groups, and other not-for profit groups).
Notes Western Edge Artistic Producer Frank Moher (who happens to be a Co-op member): "The support of community-minded organizations like the Co-op allows us to provide a showcase for central Vancouver Island's best theatre artists, and more opportunities for local audiences to enjoy their work. We couldn't do it without them."