The world will call it iconic. Calgary will call it home.
The Arts Commons Transformation (ACT) is an expansion and modernization project that will increase access to the arts for all, contribute to the health and emotional wellbeing of all Calgarians, represent a model for how arts organizations can be self-sustaining, be a Canadian and Global hub for the exploration of artistic innovations and partnerships, and create a ripple effect of economic activity in our downtown and beyond.
ACT is part of a comprehensive investment in Calgary’s downtown core that will do far more than expand and modernize Calgary’s premiere performing arts centre — it will revitalize our downtown through both the Arts Commons Transformation and the Olympic Plaza Transformation, fundamentally changing the way people perceive, experience, and talk about the arts. This endeavour will result in a vibrant, accessible, safe, and welcoming centre for all to gather, celebrate cultural identities, improve social cohesion, and enrich lives – both inside the venues and outside on historic Olympic Plaza.
While this project began as an expansion and modernization of the current Arts Commons facility, today it is a transformation not only of an entire city block but an enhancement of our city’s cultural identity.