We’re back with a discussion in episode #6 about the proposed downtown performing arts centre! This new complex would be built near the new EPCOR Tower and would house a 1700 seat theatre, three smaller theatres, a public square called The Galleria, and an office tower.

Representatives from the project’s committee presented an update of sorts to Executive Committee on February 25, and showed some sketches about what the building could look like. They’re still working on the business case, but they did announce the University of Alberta as a partner.

Do we need this new project? Does it really solve challenges facing the arts community? Wouldn’t this compete with the downtown arena? Is this the best way to leave a legacy? We explore these questions and more, and Graham puts forward a very interesting idea for how the money could be used instead.

Here are some relevant links for this episode:

• February 25 Executive Committee Minutes
• Mayor’s Arts Visioning Committee releases recommendations for raising the profile of arts in Edmonton
• Staples: Dianne and Irv Kipnes step up for Edmonton’s arts scene
• @edmontonDACC on Twitter

The next report is due back to Executive Committee on April 29, and it should give us more detail about the business case for the centre.

Thoughts? Feedback? Let us know!

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