Red Deer College Arts Centre Celebrates 25 years
Red Deer, June 10, 2011 – Many years ago a vision for a community performing arts facility in central Alberta was born – now the Red Deer College Arts Centre celebrates 25 years of success.
Built in 1986, and designed by the late Arthur Erickson, the Arts Centre complex is the base for RDC’s Theatre, Music and Motion Picture Arts programs and the Conservatory of Music and Dance. It has become a vibrant hub of activity for community groups, schools, dance and ballet programs, bands, orchestras and community education programming.
The Arts Centre has housed the training of over 40,000 actors, technicians, musicians, filmmakers, and dancers that contribute to the vibrant arts and cultural scene of Alberta. 25 years has culminated in approximately one million audience members who have been entertained, taught and delighted during more than 5,000 performances and events.
“The Arts Centre is more than a beautiful piece of architecture - it represents the pulse of the arts in central Alberta drawing in learners, performers and patrons from all across Canada for 25 years. By honouring the contributions of the community, and valuing the many thousands of musicians, technicians, artists, volunteers and patrons that have graced our halls over the years, we ensure that RDC remains a leader in providing artistic opportunities for the future,” shares Steve Sherman, Music Instructor at RDC.
The official opening of the Arts Centre in October, 1986 marked both the culmination of the hopes and dreams of committed community members, educators and students. The Arts Centre is one of the finest performing arts facilities in any college in Canada. With the help of dedicated staff and thousands of hours of volunteers, events held at the Arts Centre have created lasting memories for countless lives.
“Our Arts Centre welcomed over 75,000 visitors last year which demonstrates its importance to our community and our college,” says Joel Ward, RDC President. “Without the vision and support of the City of Red Deer and RDC officials over 25 years ago, this great facility would never have been built. We welcome all of the folks of central Alberta to join with us in celebrating 25 years of excellence in the visual and performing arts.”
This facility has become a true community site in which students, amateurs, and professionals can learn, rehearse and perform together.
With professional performers such as the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Tommy Banks, Bill Bourne, Edmonton Symphony, Royal Winnipeg Ballet, and The Nylons; community performers such as the Red Deer Symphony, Central Alberta Theatre, Tree House Youth Theatre, and RDC Conservatory of
Ballet; and College performances from Theatre, Music, and Motion Picture Arts, the Arts Centre has truly become our region’s cultural centre.
A variety of events celebrating the 25th anniversary of the RDC Arts Centre will be held from September 2011 to June 2012. Details will be announced in the future.
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About RDC: Red Deer College has served the needs of students and the community for more than 45 years. With greater than 75 programs to choose from, we pride ourselves on providing a practical education, in a genuine and sustainable learning environment. Our 7,800 full-time and part-time credit students and more than 13,000 continuing education students are at the core of everything we do. RDC – when you get here you understand.
For more information on RDC, please visit our website: www.rdc.ab.ca
For additional information, contact:
Joel Ward, RDC President
403.342.3233