“All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players.” This iconic phrase resonates with many, reflecting the universal appeal of theatre. In Toronto, a city brimming with theatres, residents and visitors alike enjoy a vibrant array of performances and productions. Among these cultural landmarks is the St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts, a performing arts complex in downtown Toronto. Learn more about its history and development on toronto-trend.com.
About the St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts
The St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts was established as an official Toronto project to commemorate Canada’s centennial in 1967. Designed by architect Gordon S. Adamson, the centre officially opened its doors in February 1970. Construction costs amounted to 2.6 million Canadian dollars.
The complex houses two theatres: the Bluma Appel Theatre and the Jane Mallett Theatre. The Bluma Appel Theatre, with 868 seats, hosts concerts, theatrical performances, and public debates. Meanwhile, the Jane Mallett Theatre, with a seating capacity of 499, is primarily used for chamber concerts and theatrical productions.
Theatres of the Centre
Initially designed for dramatic presentations, the Bluma Appel Theatre featured a thrust stage. In 1982, the theatre underwent renovations costing 5.3 million Canadian dollars. The upgrades included removing the thrust stage, balcony, and boxes, which increased seating capacity and added an orchestra pit. The renovated theatre reopened in March 1983.
In 1984, this theatre was named after Canadian actress Jane Mallett. Its stage is mainly used for concerts, chamber performances, public debates, and both staged and film presentations.
The St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts has undergone multiple renovations and restorations over the years, with the final phase of upgrades completed in 2007 at a cost of 3 million Canadian dollars.
Concerts and Theatrical Life at the St. Lawrence Centre
The St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts has always been a hub of activity. During the 1970s and 1980s, the centre hosted music presentations, chamber music concerts, and a festival showcasing Canadian composers and performers.
Even after the closure of CentreStage Music in 1987, the venue continued to host a diverse range of musical events. Over the years, its stages have seen performances by renowned artists, including Marc-André Hamelin, Jon Kimura Parker, the MegaCity Chorus, Nexus, the ORIANA Women’s Choir, the Elmer Iseler Singers, and productions like Pimooteewin: The Journey.
The St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts remains a vital cultural hub in Toronto, regularly hosting a variety of performances, productions, concerts, and festivals. Its convenient downtown location makes it a popular choice for locals and visitors seeking enriching leisure activities.
This was the story of the creation and development of the St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts. We hope you found this article informative and gained a deeper appreciation for Toronto’s vibrant cultural scene.
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