The Nation Arts Centre began a transformation on Tuesday.
The dated, windowless concert hall in Ottawa’s core is being completely revamped into an open concept, community hub.
The centre was all the talk when it opened in 1969, but today some suggest now it is outdated, and not becoming of a national centre for the arts.
Tuesday, shovels hit the ground to mark the beginning of the multi-million dollar rejuvenation.
The stone walls surrounding the NAC will be gutted and replaced by futuristic glass windows overlooking the Rideau Canal. This will also allow people on the outside to see the performances happening inside.
The main entrance will be crowned by a lantern that will broadcast shows.
Peter Herrndorf, president and CEO of the NAC said it will host a mix of community events and performances.
“It’s a place where people can be very relaxed, people who come to our singer-songwriter performances come in jeans or running shoes, or it can be a much fancier place and everything in-between,” Herrndorf said.
Re-inventing the 50 year old building comes with a $110 million dollar price tag funded by the federal government.
“It’s important for our government to reinvest and making sure we invest for the next 50 years so it’s part of the important infrastructure investments that we are making for sesquicentennial year,” said Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage.
The renovation is another big project for the capital region.
“It’s part of an overall renaissance of what’s happening in Ottawa – L-R-T, Rideau Centre, Lebreton Flats – it’s all coming together,” said Mayor Jim Watson.
Construction began Tuesday and is expected to be complete on July 1st, 2017 – in time for Canada’s 150th birthday.
The building will remain open during renovations.
