Petrolia is in the running for a major entertainment conference.

The town is bidding for Ontario Contact – a conference for the performing arts.

In a report to council, Richard Poore, director of performing arts for Petrolia, says Ontario Contact is a yearly conference for theatres in the province. Performers showcase their talents for the people booking acts.

There are also workshops, speakers, receptions, trade shows and time for networking. Poore expects between 250 and 300 delegates could attend.

“The Town of Petrolia will benefit directly and indirectly through the positive economic impacts of having 250 to 300 delegates’ experiencing all Petrolia has to offer,” says Poore.

Poore says the Victoria Playhouse would host many of the events but the gym of the Oil District Heritage Community Centre would also be used.

Poore says there is some accommodation in town, however the town would arrange a shuttle from the conference to the Holiday Inn in Sarnia.

Poore adds if the town wins the right to host the 2016 conference, the town would have to have a budget for the event – although he didn’t say how much it might be.

“If we are able to secure the conference, we will be looking for partners throughout the community,” says Poore. “We’ll be looking for as many partners as we can.”