Money money money. Sing that tune (theme song for celebrity apprentice). Or even, "Money Makes the World Go Around" (from Cabaret). We need a song to carry us through these critical financial crunch times, for sure. The arts are really feeling the pinch (as usual), and even the newly announced provincial budget doesn't hold out much of a life raft. The Alliance for Arts and Culture has a few comments about the budget: "The B.C. government is making a long-term commitment to keep our province dead last in per-capita arts funding" said Rob Gloor, executive director.

A year or two ago, Ballet BC was in a big financial crunch. Through some restructuring and fundraising efforts, they are getting back on track and offering contemporary ballet to the masses. That's us. Ballet, even contemporary style, may not be your thing. I get it. So why support a ballet company? Because. Here you can make your own list of reasons. You either believe in a healthy cultural sector or you don't.

Ballet BC's new touring production is coming to Surrey Arts Centre on March 13. Walking Mad and Other Works premiered in Vancouver and will make a one-night stand in Surrey. Based on the premise that our greatest blessings come to us by way of madness, Ballet BC brings Johan Inger's breathtaking choreography to life with dynamic movement, creativity, intelligence, artistry and passion. Also on the program are two new dances, one choreographed by Ballet BC's artistic director Emily Molnar and the other by Aszure Barton, one of Canada's leading choreographers. Collectively, the three works celebrate the resurgence of Ballet BC as a hotbed for the research, creation and performance of new dances. OK, so that last bit was directly from a press release - but I believe. Here is your opportunity to show your support for the arts in Surrey. Tickets range from $36 to $25, and fall in that "affordable" class. Contact the box office at 604-501-5566. It's a Tuesday night, but sometimes we just have to make sacrifices for the arts. Yay for live theatre. You can "like" it on Facebook at Surrey Arts Centre.

Is the cost of tickets holding you back from attending live theatre? White Rock Players' Club has announced a new discount policy for non-profit youth service organizations. Groups of 10 or more, including supervisors or caregivers, will be given a 50-per-cent discount. Wow. Just think of the federal government giving us a 50-per-cent reduction in our taxes.

Remember, ticket sales keep the theatre alive. WRPC is keen to keep the art alive, and growing audiences are essential. Take advantage of the offer, now in effect for all WRPC productions; some restrictions apply. Organizers should contact Coast Capital Playhouse box office (1 to 5 p.m., Tuesday to Saturday) to confirm eligibility and availability. Call 604-536-7535 or, for details, visit www.whiterockplayers.ca.

melminty@telus.net