New state-of-the-art performing arts facility at University of Manitoba opens this week

The Desautels Concert Hall, a state-of-the-art performance facility at the University of Manitoba, is just the latest performing arts venue Winnipeg has to offer.

The renovation of the space has taken place over the last decade. The new hall is a culmination of several years of other construction projects to Tache Hall.

“We’ve added another space, rehearsal rooms and practice rooms,” said Edward Jurkowski, the Dean of the Desautels Faculty of Music. “This is a final piece of the puzzle. It’s a 407-seat, state-of-the-art acoustic concert hall.”

The stage is of variable size. It can accommodate a full choir and orchestra simultaneously. There is an orchestra pit that is accessible for opera and musical theatre and can house 48 musicians with a conductor.

“The stage is also so large that it’s perfect for dance recitals and things of that nature,” Jurkowski said. “It isn’t just music, it’s a variety of arts activities.”

Jayden Fraser, a fourth-year undergrad student majoring in vocal performance, says he’s excited to be part of all the collaborations in the future, which are now possible with the new venue.

“It’s really beautiful, the connections you get to make here at the university, the work you do, but also the joy you get to experience as you grow as a person and a musician,” Fraser said.

“Singing in this space is just so exciting.”

Anica Warkentine, who’s working on her Master’s, says the acoustics in the facility make it easy to play.

“The space feels very generous,” Warkentine said. “There is not a lot of effort you have to expend to make the sound that you want. It feels like a very welcoming hall to make music in.

“It’s convenient, it’s exciting and we are really thrilled to be able to share music in our very own space.

There are several concerts and collaborations happening at the facility over the next few weeks, including the first concert on Thursday, featuring William Prince.