Alberta Theatre Projects reports losing 'significant funds' to online third party

Alberta Theatre Projects (ATP) says it was the victim of bank fraud, the company stated on Friday.

ATP said it discovered on Monday it had lost "significant funds" after a third party accessed its financial accounts between April 24 and 28. The Calgary-based company quickly worked to immediately protect its accounts, it said. 

On Saturday, Calgary police said the exact amount that ATP lost is still unclear, but police noted it could total more than $1 million.

No customer, donor or subscriber information was accessed in the incident, ATP said. Calgary police confirmed this was an accurate statement as far as it's aware, but its investigation is still ongoing.

Along with the police investigation, ATP's financial partner is also looking into the incident and assessing the total amount of money lost, the theatre company said.

Peita Luti, ATP's executive director, said her team was devastated to discover the incident.

"The security and privacy of our patrons, staff, and partners is our top priority," Luti said in Friday's statement.

"We work hard to protect the integrity and security of our systems, so we are frustrated that this has happened. Once we learn more from this investigation, we will share all we can with the community."

Luti also noted the unfortunate timing as ATP is celebrating its 50th anniversary.

ATP said it's unable to provide further comment about the alleged fraud while CPS is investigating. It added it will share more when more information is available.

ATP said it will continue its current run of the show Liars at a Funeral, despite the cybersecurity incident.

The news is a huge blow, with devastating timing for ATP during an important year in the theatre company's history, said Melissa Tuplin, acting president and CEO with local arts organization Calgary Arts Development.

The environment for local arts organizations has become more difficult since the COVID-19 pandemic, she added.

"The way that audiences engage with the arts has shifted, the economic environment has shifted, and arts organizations — like Alberta Theatre Projects and others — have proven time and again their ability to roll with the circumstances," said Tuplin.