The Vision
a place to perform -
a home for the arts
We've been talking about an arts centre in Haliburton County for a long time -- a place for concerts, plays, recitals, dance, opera, musicals, film festivals, workshops, and masterclasses.
And a rehearsing home for community groups -- for our multiple choirs, theatre companies, wind ensembles, folk bands, opera studio, dance schools and growing chamber orchestra.
A venue large enough for our growing arts community and acoustics that let you hear a pin drop.
Let's build the dream together.
we have outgrown our performing arts space ...
Many performing arts groups in Haliburton County use the Northern Lights Performing Arts Pavillion. It is the largest stage in the county and has the largest seating capacity of any venue (approx 210) - and tiered for easy viewing of a performance. Plus, it has stage lighting, modular floor risers, AV equipment, a sound booth, change rooms, ample parking, a grand piano and more.
where the Northern Lights Arts Pavilion has reached its limits
Limitations within the School Board
It is located in the Haliburton Highlands Secondary School (Trillium Lakelands District School Board) and subject to some restrictions and limitations. For instance, the management agreement between the NLPAP and the TLDSB states that the school has priority in bookings for the space.
Limited Food and Drink Options
There is no concession booth and no access to a kitchen, and thus intermission drinks and snacks are limited in what a performing group can bring in and setup in the lobby. Also, due to school rules, no liquor can be sold or consumed on property.
No Acoustic Shell
While good for a theatre experience, the NLPAP is not ideal for acoustic performances due to the lack of acoustic shell.
Small Stage Size
The stage is also proving too small for large ensembles such as the Highlands Chamber Orchestra and the Highlands Wind Symphony.
No Pit for Musicians
The lack of a pit also means that opera and musical performances require the musicians to be situated to the side of the stage, close to the audience front rows.
No Sprung Floor
Finally, the NLPAP does not have a sprung floor, making for less than ideal conditions for dance from ballet to hip hop to contemporary.
Rehearsal Space Intermitently Available
Some groups also use the highschool music room for rehearsals, which is conveniently located next to the NLPAP. Though if there are rehearsals or performances booked in the theatre, or if the school is closed for a PD day, or due to inclement weather, the music room is not available for use.
the goal...
A community asset, enriching lives through arts and culture while driving economic growth and fostering pride.
The arts community would like a facility that provides space for both theatre and recital hall experiences. A place that provides or includes:
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Affordable space for community organizations and also attract professional performers
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Administration space for arts groups
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A dedicated rehearsal space that is acoustically separate from the performance hall
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Space for music, bands, theatre, opera, dance and motion picture mediums.
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A lobby, concession/lounge area and kitchen for a full "night out" experience
This space is designed with our community in mind, bringing accessible arts, education, and collaboration opportunities to everyone.
Guiding Values
Sustainability
HHACF strives to provide prosperity and longevity of the building in order to support cultural vibrancy, social equity, economic prosperity and environmental responsibility in the community.
Equity, Diversity, Inclusivity (EDI)
HHACF strives to provide an environment that is inclusive, nurturing, welcoming, and safe for all. This includes but is not limited to tenets of accessibility, diversity and equity.
Community Enrichment
HHACF strives to provide an environment for engaging, inspiring, educational, and shared experiences, which meet and enhance the lives of residents and visitors alike.
Creativity
HHACF strives to be forward-thinking, resourceful, innovative and original in providing a creative environment for the community.
Collaboration
HHACF strives to work with others who share our values and engage in our vision.
Educational
HHACF strives to provide an environment for educational experiences.