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National Arts Centre construction leads to programming changes

Ongoing construction for a major facelift at the National Arts Centre leads to a shortened season, cancellations, and musicians juggling their rehearsal schedules.

Handel's Messiah and matinees for students cancelled

Sandra Abma · CBC News ·

NACO music director Alexander Shelley discusses big milestones and events, including construction

9 years ago
Duration 0:46
NACO music director Alexander Shelley says he had no idea the NAC would be a construction site when he took the job

With a $110 million facelift underway, buzzing saws and pounding hammers have replaced the sounds of orchestra rehearsals at the National Arts Centre.

Until the construction is finished in time for Canada's 150th birthday in 2017, plenty of adjustments will be made to try to keep audiences and performers happy.

"The main issues have been around scheduling rehearsals, actually," said National Arts Centre Orchestra music director Alexander Shelley. "There are times during the day when we would normally be rehearsing, but we can't because of the sound of the work." 

NACO musicians have had to adjust their schedules to rehearse on weekends and evenings, according to Shelley.

"We want this to finish on time and it will finish on time. There's been some impact on programming, but we've managed to mitigate for it."

Artist's rendering of what the renovated National Arts Centre will look like when complete in 2017. (Diamond Schmitt Architects)

Changes to scheduling and locations

  • During daytime hours, the NAC box office has been relocated across the street to 58 Elgin St.
  • NACO's holiday programming will be suspended for the 2016-17 season, and that includes the perennial seasonal favourite Handel's Messiah. But not to worry, you little sugar plums — The Nutcracker is returning.
  • Student matinées for plays at the NAC theatre and studio are cancelled.
  • Children's programs normally held in the cushioned Panorama Room will move to the lobby.
  • Some musical afternoon programs for students will be moved to Centrepointe Theatre.
  • Fourth Stage — the popular venue for local performances — will be closed in May.
  • Le Café will no longer serve lunch, but will open for dinner. 

In the end, improvements will include a new Elgin Street entrance, a light-filled glass atrium, improved performance spaces, public areas for events and education, and full mobility for people with disabilities. There are also plans in the works for a trendy coffee shop.

NACO music director Alexander Shelley says musicians are adjusting to building construction. (NAC Orchestra)

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