Two of the capital’s major entertainment venues celebrate major milestones this year: the Francis Winspear Centre for Music turns 20 and the Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium turns 60!
With Dr. Winspear’s gracious donation of $6 million in 1988—the single largest private donation to a performing arts facility in Canadian history—and government funds, the Winspear opened in September of 1997. An expansion project for the building is currently in the works and the architectural design will revitalize the ever-growing Downtown Arts District.
In the southern part of the city, the Jubilee Auditorium celebrates 60 years since opening its doors in April of 1957 alongside the Southern Jubilee Auditorium in Calgary. To commemorate the 50th anniversary of Alberta’s induction into the Confederation, the auditoriums were built as multi-purpose facilities to accommodate every type of performing art. After 50 years, the Jube was renovated to celebrate the province’s centennial, and it remains the home of Edmonton Opera and the Alberta Ballet.
***
To celebrate, the Winspear Centre is having a FREE birthday bash on October 1! Don’t miss the live performances, backstage tours, face painting, arts and crafts, cake, and more.
