The Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing Arts, a pillar of the Queen’s and Kingston arts world, officially turned 10 years old on Sept. 20.
The significant milestone was marked by a performance from two-time Polaris Prize winning artist Jeremy Dutcher on the anniversary, followed by a gala reception and discussion on Sept. 21. The occasion marked an important anniversary for the centre, which has evolved its programming through the years. With a season theme of “Inspiration and Alliances,” the Isabel is acknowledging the past while remaining future focused.
Jeremy Dutcher’s history with the Isabel made his performance on Sept. 20 particularly poignant. Dutcher has both performed and recorded at the centre, with elements of his two Polaris Prize winning albums having been recorded at the Isabel. This connection added special significance to the performance.
The gala reception and discussion offered an opportunity for long-time supporters of the Isabel to come together. In the discussion portion of the event, the original architects from Snøhetta, who designed the modern elements of the building, and N45, who designed and integrated the heritage elements, shared their passion for the centre.
Additionally, representatives from Arup Acoustics and Sound Design, responsible for designing the impressive acoustic elements in the performance and recital halls, were present. The discussion provided ample time for questions from the audience.
The reception was accompanied by a marimba performance by Ethan Fong, ArtSci ’25, showcasing the wealth of student talent the Isabel supports. The centre’s dual mandate as both a performing arts centre and an educational facility makes it a unique space that values flexibility and learning.
The Isabel has a commitment to both Queen’s, as well as Kingston and beyond. “We’re a part of the university, but we’re also part of the community—we have a public face as well. It’s—I like to say—somewhat unique in terms of a performing arts centre to be part of the university context,” said Gordon E. Smith, director of the Isabel, in an interview with The Journal.
This season’s theme of “Inspiration and Alliances” is significant for the 10th year, representing the Isabel’s commitment to diversifying programming and strengthening community relationships. These are elements they hope to continue to build upon in the centre’s future.
Smith emphasized the importance of diversity in both the Isabel’s programming and operations. Highlights of the upcoming calendar include the “Listenings” series, with a focus on Indigenization. This isn’t only relevant in September, as the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation approaches, but is reflected year-round in the Isabel’s diversity initiatives.
This diversification of programming also extends to the wider community, with a range of artists, genres, and styles represented in this season’s events. Upcoming events such as Megumi Masaki, Michelle Cann with Imani Winds, and The Kingdom Choir reflect this.
Local talent will also be uplifted, with the “Friday Nights” series featuring familiar favourites such as Tiny Horse and Kasador.
The “alliance” element of the season’s theme also applies to connecting the creative community. When speaking to the continually strengthening relationship with the Tett Centre for Creativity and Learning, Smith was positive. “The relationship between us has really become recognized as important, and something that sustains both places,” he said.
The Isabel has experienced growth in the past 10 years, both in the diversification of its programming, and number of events it has been able to showcase per season. “In 2014-15, which was the first season, there were 47 events here—concerts, plays, film screenings—this year there are over 300,” Smith said.
There has also been a push to draw more students to the centre. This focus has gone hand-in-hand with utilizing all of the spaces the Isabel has to offer, not only the famous Jennifer Velva Bernstein Performance Hall. Other spaces, such as the Art & Media Lab, the Karen Hitchcock Recital Hall, and even the lobby itself, allow for different types of arts to be showcased. “It’s important that we don’t just have one kind of art,” Smith said.
Looking to the future, Smith is positive about what the next milestones for the Isabel’s future.
“I would want to continue to build on both inspiration and alliances. [I would want] to build on this approach of knowing and being in the arts today, but also imagining what the arts can be tomorrow, next year, in 10 years.”
Tags
anniversary, Arts, Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing Arts, performing arts
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