Kelowna’s Next Stage: A New Performing Arts Centre for the Cultural District
🎭 Kelowna’s Next Stage: A New Performing Arts Centre for the Cultural District
By Mark & Maddie | Selling Kelowna Real Estate Group | eXp Realty Kelowna
What’s happening in Kelowna’s arts scene?
If you’ve heard talk about a new performing arts centre coming to Kelowna, you’re right — and now’s your chance to learn exactly what’s being proposed and why it matters.
On Thursday, November 13, 2025 at 7:00 PM, Citizens for a New Performing Arts Centre (CNPAC) is hosting a free public presentation at the Mary Irwin Theatre, inside the Rotary Centre for the Arts (421 Cawston Avenue, Kelowna). Seating is limited, so it’s best to register early at theboxoffice.ca.
Why Kelowna Needs a New Performing Arts Centre
Kelowna’s arts community has outgrown the beloved Kelowna Community Theatre (KCT). Built more than 60 years ago, it has been the cultural heart of downtown — but growing demand, touring productions, and technical limitations have created the need for a larger, modern facility.
A City Task Force has already recommended a two-part approach:
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Keep and upgrade KCT, improving its lobby and accessibility.
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Build a new, purpose-built Performing Arts Centre in the Cultural District to host large-scale performances and conferences.
The goal isn’t to replace KCT — it’s to add capacity and elevate Kelowna’s cultural experience.
The Vision: A Dynamic, Purpose-Built Cultural Hub
Citizens for a New Performing Arts Centre is a volunteer-led group championing the creation of a landmark, community-focused venue that would:
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Feature a main hall of roughly 1,600 seats (based on feasibility studies).
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Include rehearsal, studio, and educational spaces for community groups and schools.
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Integrate with Kelowna’s Cultural District — surrounded by restaurants, galleries, and hotels.
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Strengthen downtown vibrancy and create year-round arts tourism.
According to the group, a new centre would also support economic growth through job creation, increased tourism spending, and expanded event hosting capacity — something the region has needed for years.
Meet the Speakers on November 13
At the upcoming event, you’ll hear directly from the team behind the project:
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Robert Claiborne — Award-winning Architect & Partner at DIALOG Design
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Myles Bruckal — Business leader, cultural advocate, and President of CNPAC
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Jodi James — DIALOG Intern Architect whose work bridges art and urban design
They’ll share progress updates, conceptual ideas, and next steps for community involvement.
How You Can Support the Project
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🎟 Attend the Free Presentation
Join the discussion and share your feedback. Seating is limited — register at theboxoffice.ca. -
💬 Have Your Say
Public feedback helps shape the design and future location of the new centre. -
💡 Spread the Word
Share event details on social media, talk to friends, and encourage local groups to participate. -
🏗 Back the Vision
From sponsorships to volunteering, there are opportunities to help this project move forward.
Looking Ahead
This event marks an exciting milestone for Kelowna’s Cultural District — a chance to imagine a vibrant, modern venue that reflects the talent and creativity thriving here in the Okanagan.
If built, this Performing Arts Centre could become one of the city’s most significant cultural investments in decades — enhancing quality of life, supporting tourism, and giving performers a home that matches their potential.
Event Details
📅 Date: Thursday, November 13, 2025
🕖 Time: 7:00 PM
📍 Location: Mary Irwin Theatre, Rotary Centre for the Arts, 421 Cawston Ave, Kelowna
🎟 Register: theboxoffice.ca
💰 Cost: Free / By Donation
🔗 More Info: rotarycentreforthearts.com
Mark & Maddie
Selling Kelowna Real Estate Group | eXp Realty Kelowna
📞 778-744-0872 ✉️ [email protected]
Follow @sellingkelownabc
