REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY Our Vision: A creative and compassionate society, inspired through the arts. Our Mission: To bring the arts… to life.

Above: Arts Commons © Heart & Sparrow Photography. Right: Artist Daniel j Kirk working in Arts Commons LightBox Studio

Our Mandate: 1. To foster, present, and promote the arts. 2. To provide and care for our assets. 3. To ensure optimal access and utilization of our assets.

Patrons enjoy the opportunity to meet National Geographic Live explorer Carsten Peter, after his show 2 Arts Commons Report to the Community 2015-16 Report to the Community 2015-16 Arts Commons 3

Arts Commons Box Office team

Arts Commons Core Values

How we behave and what we do defines who we are as an organization. We are passionate about our work and the contribution it makes to our society. Our commitment to each other, to our patrons, and to our community is to:

Be our best, always – in service, professionalism, “One night, we encountered a lost patron. and providing a quality experience. Through the investigative work of our Do the right thing – considering the facts, erring Ticketing Services Manager (Jen), on the side of grace, and behaving with integrity. we discovered that the patron was meant to meet her friend at the Jubilee. When she Be open – in our minds, hearts, and arms, expressed some trepidation at taking the we value teamwork, empathy, and collaboration. Arts Commons staff members engaging in conversation at the Living our Values workshop C-Train, Jen provided change for the fare, Thank you for your feedback – that which helps us learn, and that which escorted her to the platform, and ensured reminds us of the significance of what we do. that she got on the right line and knew her stop. She also phoned the Jubilee to ensure someone was there to assist her when “Your staff completely saved our anniversary she arrived. This was a clear example and helped us have a really great experience. of going above and beyond.” We really had a wonderful time at the show. ~ Laura Castle, Ticketing Coordinator Thank you thank you thank you. Your staff are the true rock stars of any show! With much gratitude for your kindness.”

~ Mrs. Christy Ziehl Mallett & Mr. Tyler Mallett, Arts Commons leadership team leading staff Living our Values patrons of Arts Commons workshop, held in the Engineered Air Theatre 4 Arts Commons Report to the Community 2015-16 Report to the Community 2015-16 Arts Commons 5

Calgary International Film Festival’s opening gala featuring musician Christian Hudson Community and Patron Impact

Arts Commons exists to serve our Calgary International Film Festival’s community and be not only an integral opening gala for the 2nd year in a row. part of Calgary’s cultural landscape, This event provides profile for local and but an important gathering place in national artists and brings the community both good times and bad. together to celebrate film and those behind its creation. After the tragic fire in Fort McMurray, we were honoured to host an event This past year, Arts Commons also in the Jack Singer Concert Hall lobby developed a shared services agreement recognizing and thanking the firefighters, with the Alberta Ballet. Along with nurses, and other first responders for becoming a ticketing consortium their around the clock dedication to member, the Ballet will obtain assistance the people affected by the fire. with financial services, including financial reporting and payroll. This collaboration Being the premier venue in the city, creates efficiencies and in turn, allows Arts Commons was equally proud to all parties to better serve patrons and host and be the venue sponsor for the impact our community in positive ways.

“Arts Commons is a fantastic organization with top notch facilities. They are exceptionally supportive of the Calgary arts community and we look forward to working with them again.” ~ Jennifer Cecconui, Calgary International Film Festival’s opening gala, Jack Singer Concert Hall lobby, Arts Commons Calgary International Film Festival 6 Arts Commons Report to the Community 2015-16 Report to the Community 2015-16 Arts Commons 7

“On behalf of the members of Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, I want to express my deep Contributing appreciation to you both for bringing VJO to Calgary. It was a highlight of our 50th anniversary year. Thanks so much for having to the Future the vision and stamina to have us perform for your young musicians and general public.”

~ Douglas Purviance, Orchestra Manager, Vanguard Jazz Orchestra

As part of the Arts Commons five-year plan, band for the infamous Village Vanguard and with the generous support of our Lead Club in New York City. With the support 10,056 Sponsor for Arts Learning ConocoPhillips and close partnership of CADME (Calgary Canada, we have prioritized making vital Association for the Development of students engaged interactions between artists and students Music Education) 1,200 students were in Arts Commons possible. In a once in a lifetime opportunity, also given a private concert and an Presents Arts five high schools were invited to bring incredible learning experience that many their jazz ensembles to the Jack Singer will remember for the rest of their lives. Learning programs Concert Hall for a full day workshop with Several prominent Calgary jazz musicians the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, which for indicated that this was “the most the past 50 years has been the house significant jazz event in Calgary’s history.”

1,200 students attended the private CADME concert with Vanguard Jazz Orchestra

CADME students engaged in a workshop with the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra Artists

CADME student learns first hand from a Vanguard Jazz Orchestra artist 8 Arts Commons Report to the Community 2015-16 Report to the Community 2015-16 Arts Commons 9

Union Choir performs on the steps of the Jack Singer Concert Hall, Arts Commons

Relevant and Current

This Feels so Real, by artist Rob Knudsen

It is not every day that a local, emerging on the side of the building with the title Union Choir collaborating with members artist gets to open for an international carved out, and the HB pencils designed of Sisters from Another Mother singing award winning artist on the Jack Singer out of the bollards around the parkade ‘Songs for All Women’ on the Jack Singer Concert Hall stage, or use an entire entrance. You can find more of his work Concert Hall steps. The members of the building as a blank canvas for their self- in some of the most unexpected places Union Choir were honoured to showcase expression, but Arts Commons makes throughout the building as well. the music of Indigenous women as this happen. This past year, Calgary’s taught by Calgary musicians Chantal own Ellen Doty with Josh Crowhurst For the 100 year anniversary of Chagnon and Cheryle Chagnon-Greyeyes. opened for jazz’s new “it” boy, Gregory women receiving the vote in Alberta, The day continued with a visual arts tour Porter, and artist Rob Knudsen was given Arts Commons collaborated with the of feminist art in the Window Galleries, carte blanche to apply his creativity to community and facilitated an incredible and closed with a screening of She’s the Arts Commons building. Knudsen’s day-long celebration themed around Beautiful When She’s Angry, as part of work resulted in “This Feels So Real”, the women’s rights, empowerment, and the Artflicks! series. square plot of artificial grass mounted equality. The day started off with the

“Working with Arts Commons I was given a lot more freedom than I’m used to while creating art in Ellen Doty with Josh Crowhurst open for a public space. They told me, ‘You 479 Arts Commons Presents TD Jazz, Gregory Porter on the Jack Singer Concert Hall stage can do anything, no limits, except artists engaged through paint on the heritage building’” Arts Commons Presents ~ Rob Knudsen, resident artist

HB Pencils, by artist Rob Knudsen 10 Arts Commons Report to the Community 2015-16 Report to the Community 2015-16 Arts Commons 11

Arts Commons Presents, BD&P World Music Yamato the Drummers of Japan, Jack Singer Concert Hall

24,885 A Season of patrons purchased tickets to Arts Commons Excellence Presents shows

This year, thousands of people walked stages and reception halls and over 190 through the doors of Arts Commons, community user groups held their special sat in our seats, strolled through our halls, events in our spaces. Artflicks! wrapped and were impacted by the creativity up for good, after an amazing season, and imagination that occur within our which included both the premiere and walls. In total, 31,664 people attended two additional screenings of The Peel, Arts Commons Presents shows in the a documentary following six Canadian acoustically brilliant Jack Singer Concert artists paddling through North America’s Hall, embracing music from around the last intact river system, in an attempt to world through the BD&P World Music raise awareness and prompt action for and TD Jazz series, and learning about its protection. The Peel artists were in the world around us through National residence at Arts Commons and were Geographic Live. PCL Blues celebrated also featured in the Lightbox gallery and Wedding ceremony, Jack Singer 18 years of performance in the intimate the +15 Soundscape. Concert Hall lobby © Heart & Sparrow Photography and recently renovated Engineered Air We are proud to have shared in these Theatre. Over 20 brides and grooms powerful, passionate, and unforgettable exchanged vows on our beautiful moments with you.

“When artists and 56,201 community come people engaged in together, amazing Arts Commons Presents things can happen.”

programming ~ Jennifer Johnson, (includes paid & unpaid attendance, Director of Programming. audience, students, teachers, artists)

Q &A with the cast of The Peel, Engineered Air Theatre

National Geographic Live speaker Bob Poole on the Jack Singer Concert Hall stage 12 Arts Commons Report to the Community 2015-16 Report to the Community 2015-16 Arts Commons 13

Arts Commons is…

West Island College Commencement Ceremony on the Jack Singer Concert Hall stage, Arts Commons Passion

Arts Commons is proud to have passionate and dedicated staff that take great pride in operating and maintaining the 560,000 sq-ft facility to the highest standards. The venue and event staff, the facility management crew, and the Arts Commons, Front of House staff administrative team alike, are driven to give audiences and artists the best experience possible. In our dedication to operating sustainably and reducing “dark days”, venue and event management booked 1,097 events this year, up from 974 events in 2014-15. In addition, 18 Founders Circle and Explorer Circle Membership events were held, contributing to our fundraising efforts, providing behind-the-scenes opportunities, and enhancing the overall patron experience.

Arts Commons staff with artist “We are very pleased to be holding our third composer-pianist Mark Limacher consecutive Commencement Ceremony at the lovely Jack Singer Concert Hall. It is a spectacular venue for this special moment 61 and our graduates and their families have full time staff 1097 nothing but great things to say about the events booked by reception we host in the lobby afterwards.” Venue & Event ~ Tina Butz, West Island College Management

Arts Commons’ Director of Facilities, Wes Jenkins (centre), and longtime Founders Circle Members, Bryan Clarke and Michel Bourque on a backstage tour of the Martha Cohen Theatre. © Will Young. 14 Arts Commons Report to the Community 2015-16 Report to the Community 2015-16 Arts Commons 15

Paco Pena Flamencura on the Jack Singer Concert Hall stage as part of BD&P World Music Arts Commons is… Accessible

Through the TD Arts Access Pass, Kids Up Front, and other community giving programs, Arts Commons Presents was able to provide free tickets to 15,803 new Canadian citizens, families in need, and so many other Calgarians who wouldn’t otherwise be able to enjoy these enriching cultural experiences. Additionally, Arts Commons held free events including the hugely popular Happenings evenings, which encourages the public to interact with art and artists, and is never the same twice. “Big thanks for sponsoring tickets to the the “Paco Pena Flamencura” concert with the BD&P World Music series. I really enjoyed the show – the guitar playing, dancing and singing were amazing! I was able to use the second ticket to treat a good friend of mine who loves World Music and who recently lost his job and is down on his luck. Much appreciated!!”

–Patron, TD Arts Access Pass

Left: Chalk artist Jenny Bonar decorates centre court entrance for the Happenings 5 event. Right: Free Happenings printmaking activity with artist Trevor Gieske 2,259 patrons benefited from FREE show tickets, through 15,803 the TD Arts Access Pass people attended an event FREE of charge

Happenings, artist Kris Ellestad 16 Arts Commons Report to the Community 2015-16 Report to the Community 2015-16 Arts Commons 17

Arts Commons is… Vital Ehendandant mil mod moles maion- sequist et as es aut aut escienime Arts Commons,delessequias Lightbox Gallery. molorrum nobis. Featuring Sarah Nordean Arts Commons is an incubator and leader individual artists and collectives to in the development of emerging artists create innovative, thought-provoking, in Calgary, providing experience and and exceptional work. We provide support that builds artist repertoire and multiple non-traditional gallery spaces qualifications for various funding and and opportunities for artists to take professional development streams. Along supportive risks at a professional level with providing showcasing opportunities that helps provide valuable experience. for musicians, Arts Commons Visual Working with 165 visual artists during the and Media Arts Programs support and 2015-16 season, the number of local artists promote predominantly local emerging we support continues to grow ever year.

“It is difficult to “nutshell” Arts Commons. I have played in most of the theaters and even the hallways, I have been in residency 165 at the Ledge Gallery, and as a patron, visual and media I have experienced much more. There artists engaged is no other place in the city as diverse and dynamic for the arts community - a unique and critical hub for Calgary.”

~ Mark Limacher, composer-pianist Mark Limacher and Brianna Strong Arts Commons, Window Galleries exhibition experiment with visually representing music in the Ledge Gallery. 18 Arts Commons Report to the Community 2015-16 Report to the Community 2015-16 Arts Commons 19

Hub for Inspiring Learning students created life-sized statues of themselves

“I had a student who was excited to participate at the site, who ‘blossomed’ Arts Commons is… at school during our rehearsals and final production. Their in-class behavior has been more confident in their verbal Education expression as well as their peer relations.” ~ Teacher, Light of Christ school, participant in the Hub for Inspired Learning program National Geographic Live The Hub for Inspired Learning entered its themselves that were then displayed first full year during the 2015-16 season throughout the centre for the public to welcoming 483 students to participate. engage with. Educator feedback has been Partnering with Campus Calgary Open overwhelmingly positive, paving the way Minds, Arts Commons provides an for many successful years to come. SummerACT students perform their original work on the Engineered Air innovative learning environment, allowing Theatre stage students to explore new ways to commu- The National Geographic Live education nicate, as well as interact with each other program also welcomed 8,198 students through visual arts, dance, music, and to this spectacular speaker series, over theatre. This season’s activities ranged 600 students participated in One Day Arts from mask-making to journal writing, School, and the immersive SummerACT and even creating life-sized statues of musical theatre program was sold out! 633 8,198 students who students attended a participated in National Geographic One Day Arts School 483 Live student show students enrolled in the Hub for Inspired Learning

Students discover a new style of learning with the Hub for Inspired Learning One Day Arts School workshop 20 Arts Commons Report to the Community 2015-16 Report to the Community 2015-16 Arts Commons 21

Arts Commons is… Engagement

During the Arts Commons 2015-16 ambassadors and Arts Commons guides season, the volunteer base more than and service providers for our patrons. doubled with the launch of our new As we move forward, we’re excited to volunteer program, engaging individuals expand our concierge program to offer on multiple levels throughout our a superior level of customer service inside organization, including marketing and our building and for the surrounding area. communications, development, and Not only does this program help patrons programming (specifically for our navigate the building, but also allows Happenings artist receptions and parties). for a deeper exchange of information about the space and everything that We also launched our new concierge happens within. program, creating a team of brand

Volunteers help with Arts Commons festival tent

Volunteer at Happenings

“…you folks at Arts Commons treat us so well and this is just the “I am very glad to be a part of the beginning! You’re going above and beyond helping us newer Volunteer Program at Arts Commons, volunteers feel comfortable with the Volunteer Program, it is a great opportunity to become the Concierge Role, other opportunities and how everything works. exposed to the arts community in I’m really looking forward to being part of (and hope I can help Calgary while at the same time create) a great volunteer experience with Arts Commons. promoting a sense of community.” So... “Thank You!” ~ Melissa, Volunteer Program participant

~ Lynda, Volunteer Program participant Volunteers introduce the new concierge program to patrons in Arts Commons 22 Arts Commons Report to the Community 2015-16 Report to the Community 2015-16 Arts Commons 23

$100 Film Festival Calgary Oracle Users Columbia College Honens Paul Mercs Concerts Inc. Stampede Group Entertainment Inc. 5 Star Entertainment Conrad Belau Husky Energy Pechakucha Night Calgary Outlink Centre Studio C ABEC Promotions Inc. Coopérative Independent Living Peripheral Theatre For Gender and Sexual Théâtre à Pic Resource Centre of Teachers Convention Diversity PREPSKILLS INC. Absolute Dance Inc. Calgary Dance on Edge TEDxYYC Calgary Philharmonic Pride Calgary Adult Recreation Inglesia Productions Choir Society Orchestra Dance Spectrum Planning Committee The Calgary Inside Out Theatre International Burlesque Calgary Queen’s Dark Matter Productions Juste Alberta Association of Festival Architects University Alumni Productions International Live pour rire II Inc. Association Events Association, The Garter Girls Inc. Dean Kolundzic Professional Association Alberta Theatre Projects Calgary Calgary Society of of Canadian Theatres The Russian Theatre Alexandra Young DeFakto Theatre Organists Jacquelyn Perron Foundation of Calgary QED Marketing Inc. Arts Commons is… Amber Arts Inc. Dell Canada Calgary Tundra Swan Jaime Tinevez The Young Canadians Red Deer Symphony Dance School Diana Paul Galleries School of Performing Arts Commons Presents Jeff Parry Promotions Renee Howey and Arts Avant-Garde Music Canadian Society Digital Zone Media Jennifer Mansell Patrick Boyd Studio for Unconventional Theatre Alberta Diversity Dance Resources Jeremy Johnson Revv52 Backside Tours & Performing Arts Theatre BSMT Canadian Society of Jeunesse Classique River Street Productions Community Ballet de Moscou, Inc. Downstage Theatre Calgary Petroleum Geologists Ballet Society Romanian-Canadian Birnton Theatricals Dr. E.P.Scarlett Theatre of Canadian Voice Care Jewish National Fund Cultural Association of Celebrating International Day of Persons High School Consequences with Disabilities, in the Jack Singer Lobby Bishop Carroll High Foundation - Calgary Calgary School EMH Productions Inc. Theresa Pinhey Children’s School of JUNO Awards Ronnie Burkett Theatre & Ryan Brookwell Dance Erikaentertainment of Marionettes Arts Commons is the home to some event(s) at Arts Commons whether BLG Awards La Pointe Dance THUGWork Theatre Christine & Kevin Ernst & Young, L.L.P. Rozsa Foundation of Calgary’s most innovative artistic for a performance, rehearsal, readings, Bow Valley College Legacy Kitchens Nguyen TK Events Inc. Experience Church Sai Productions organizations, and is proud to present or workshop. Criteria includes being a Brian Farrell Music Inc. Lighthouse Labs Chromatic Theatre Tourism Calgary Fairmont Hotels and SAIT Student Association: and promote creative collaboration within Canadian-based organization and the Brooks & Dodd Link PR Incorporated Consulting Inc. City of Calgary Resorts, Canada’s Architectural Traugott Building our city. As part of our commitment to event being arts related and impactful Western Mountain Live Nation Canada Inc. Technologies Contractors Calgary Association City of Calgary - Region being a gathering place and collaborator on the community. This year, the fund for the Development of Community Standards Luxor Group of SAIT Student Association: Tri-Tone Productions Music Education Fashion Calgary Companies Civil Engineering City of Calgary - Two Towers for our community, we have created the benefited music, dance, puppetry, Technology Students’ Calgary Catholic School Corporate Properties Festival Chorus Martyna Gatkiewicz Club Ultimate Dance Community Opportunity Fund. This fund theatre, and more, further broadening District & Buildings & Christopher Ian Cox Fire Exit Theatre Company Sakamoto has been developed to allow community the depth and breadth of culture which Calgary Civic Symphony City of Calgary - Company Mawer Investment Entertainment Union Events CSC Digital Forum Management Ltd. and arts organizations to apply for a happens here at Arts Commons. Calgary Congress for Foothills Academy Sandra Irwin University of Equity & Diversity in City of Calgary - Meridican Incentive sponsorship opportunity to host their Free for All Marketing British Columbia - Customer Service SDI Marketing & Rogers the Arts Consultants Development & Alumni & Communication FUNNYFEST Calgary Hometown Hockey Calgary Girls Choir Michelle Thrush Engagement Comedy Festival City of Calgary - Search Tower Company Calgary Housing Minimax Group Inc. University of Lethbridge Environmental and Government of Alberta - Company Serenella Sol Safety Management Alberta Infrastructure Morin Music Studio Urban Dance Projects Calgary Immigrant Shangrila Calgary City of Calgary - Governors of the MPACT Dance Urban Stories Theatre “The Community Opportunity Fund Campaign Women’s Association Society (SCS) Information Technology University of Calgary MS Society of Canada Vietnamese Buddhist Calgary International Services Shantero Productions (COF) allowed a small-size local music National Trust for Congregation in Calgary Children’s Festival City of Calgary - IT Canada / Fiducie Musica Academy ShowBiz Production Inc. Viva Musica Studio Ltd. school like us to provide our students with a Calgary International Application Support Nationale du Canada New Pathway Showtime Dance Film Festival W.P. Puppet City of Calgary - Parks Hitachi Solutions Promotions performance experience that has developed New West Symphony Theatre Society Calgary Municipal Land and Recreation Canada, Ltd. & Chorus Snap Dance Studios Corporation Wayne Jones Comedy City of Calgary - Urban Holly Blazina a sense of community, nurture the joy of Nexen Energy ULC Soul to Sole Dance Strategy West Island College 15 Next Level SoundKreations live music making and self-expression, in a Entertainment Western Canada organizations that Service Inc. Security Professional’s High School professional, yet intimate recital venue like the Information Exchange Wild Rose Dance Nimble Storage Society benefited from the Engineered Air Theatre. We truly appreciate Arts Association North American Springboard Dance Community Resource Wordfest the support of local talent development through 191 Management Inc. Square Cat World Beauty Fitness Entertainment Opportunity Fund community groups Northland Oral Surgery and Fashion Inc programs like the COF.” SS Entertainment Inc. One Yellow Rabbit Youth Singers of Calgary Performance Theatre StageCoach Theatre ~ Alicia Romero, Avant Garde Music Studio who made use of Youth World Arts Calgary Arts Commons’ facilities Orff the Wall Petroleum Council Yum Yum Catering Ltd. 24 Arts Commons Report to the Community 2015-16 Report to the Community 2015-16 Arts Commons 25

The cast of Theatre Calgary’s The Little Prince – The Musical. © Trudie Lee

“My favourite music moment was listening to the amazing score for Theatre Calgary’s Arts Commons is… The Little Prince premiere with two 8 year olds.” United ~ Sonja

Within the walls of Arts Commons, a grassroots Calgary song project to magic happens. From the seven a performance in an elevator. In the resident companies to the multitude of Martha Cohen Theatre, Alberta Theatre community groups who share our space, Projects premiered The Circle by Geoffrey stories are told, experiences are shared, Simon Brown, a new Canadian play that and doors to inspiration and creativity starred an all-Albertan cast, fostering are opened. In the 2015-16 season, the future of theatre in our province, Theatre Calgary’s The Little Prince took while Downstage worked tirelessly to us on a fantastical journey across the remove barriers that might discourage stars in the Max Bell Theatre, the Calgary patrons from enjoying their ground- Philharmonic Orchestra filled Jack Singer breaking productions. And the Calgary Concert Hall with inspiring, uplifting, and International Children’s Festival provided powerful music, and One Yellow Rabbit over 60,000 arts experiences to children, Performance Theatre celebrated 30 years parents, and teachers in our building and of presenting the High Performance on Olympic Plaza, confirming them to be Rodeo with a line-up that ranged from the best at theatre for young people.

Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra “My best memory of Arts Cast members of Alberta Theatre Calgary International Commons was hearing the Projects’ The Circle by Geoffrey Children’s Festival, 2016. “It was my first time going to see the Calgary Simon Brown, 2015 – Photo courtesy © Kelly Hofer Johnny Gaudreau anthem in of Alberta Theatre Projects Philharmonic Orchestra and it was definitely a One Yellow Rabbit’s Calgary fantastic experience. The concert hall itself was I love you, but you’re killing neat and beautiful. I was overwhelmed with emotions me. Still has me laughing.” and I will admit that I cried at the end. Overall

~ Julia Best experience left me with a great memory! Thank you!!” ~ Cindy Nguyen 26 Arts Commons Report to the Community 2015-16 Report to the Community 2015-16 Arts Commons 27

Our collective impact combines activities from community groups 430,968 and resident companies, including tickets distributed Arts Commons Presents: 46,567 Arts Commons is… students inspired Innovative

757 Our facility experienced some magical seatbacks were donated to Calgary 889 artists engaged ticketed moments as well. During the 2015-16 woodworking artists. The dressing rooms or employed season, through the support of the of the Jack Singer Concert Hall were also performances City of Calgary and the Government of refurbished, providing a much needed Canada, Arts Commons was able to give upgrade to host our artists, and the Jack the Max Bell, Martha Cohen, Engineered Singer Concert Hall seats will be replaced Air, and Motel Theatres a face lift with in Summer, 2017. 1,332 new seats, each designed and chosen specifically for their designated We also brightened the experience in Big 222 theatre. Each seat from three of the Secret Theatre and Motel with new lighting FTE positions theatres was carefully disassembled, grids and upgraded the Martha Cohen in the building in order to recycle and reuse wherever Theatre with a new lighting console. possible. Metal frames were melted These improvements, among many down, recycled, and will be turned into others, not only make the experience new products, while many of the wooden more enjoyable for our patrons, but also seatbacks were converted into acoustic for the artists who rehearse and perform reflective panels to enhance the Jack under our roof. 1,741 Singer Rehearsal Hall! The remaining volunteers Jack Singer Concert Hall Rehearsal participated Room acoustic ceiling created from the recycled backs of the old Max Bell Theatre seats 20,931 volunteer hours spent

Max Bell Theatre was one of four theatres in Arts Commons to receive new seating 28 Arts Commons Report to the Community 2015-16 Report to the Community 2015-16 Arts Commons 29

3% 1% 4% Facilities Marketing & Admin 9% Other Programming Arts Commons is… Revenues Sustainable $12,045,231

Venue Utilization Revenue Growth and Diversification Fiscal Year 2015-16 Results 47% When the current management of Arts Commons took over in $14,000,000 In our ongoing focus on improving resiliency fiscal year 2009-10, the organization was facing a large deficit $12,000,000 and sustainability, we continued to pursue Development * which required significant cuts to operating expenses in order $10,000,000 revenue opportunities and diversification to reduce the overall deficit to just over $100K. Understanding by maximizing the capacity of our core 35% that cutting expenses was a short term measure and that we $8,000,000 services and venues while maintaining a 2% needed to grow and diversify revenue streams to ensure the $6,000,000 competitive cost structure. This resulted 7% Other 30% Development * Facilities future of the organization, a longer term plan was developed. $4,000,000 in the third consecutive year of positive operational results which will help ensure $2,000,000 Seven years later we can see the results of that strategy with both the sustainability of our operations 15% revenues increasing over 61% in 2015-16 when compared to $0 and the ability to respond dynamically to Programming 2008-09 results (right). 2008-09 2015-16 opportunities or future challenges as they present themselves.

Despite a successful year, the effects of the 2008-09 2015-16 economic downturn were significant, with Expenses revenues from venue usage and ticket sales $11,575,829 $7,000,000 The focus on maximizing revenues included: down 19% year over year. Gains in development $6,000,000 • Increased and innovative use of venues and support service revenues helped offset the impact of the decreased activity. $5,000,000 • Expanding our role as a presenter & programmer – New series $4,000,000 – Additional arts learning offerings $3,000,000 – Increased public programming $2,000,000 • Strengthening our relationships with all levels Marketing & Admin Venue Utilization $1,000,000 of government and the community (development) $0 Resulting in increases from 41 to 133% in three key areas: 21% 26% Venue Utilization Development Programming venue utilization, programming and development (left). * includes $241,586 of goods and services in kind 30 Arts Commons Report to the Community 2015-16 Report to the Community 2015-16 Arts Commons 31

Private and Public Sector Support Arts Commons wishes to express our sincere appreciation to the following corporations, foundations, governments, and passionate community leaders who gave generously to support Arts Commons as we played a key role in the social, economic, cultural and intellectual life and well-being of Calgarians and visitors throughout the 2015-16 Season. Arts Commons is… Corporate Sponsors and Foundation Partners Supporting Sponsor, Official Brewery Title Sponsor, Partner, Hub for Media Sponsor Official Printer BD&P World Music BD&P World Music Inspired Learning You & TD Jazz

Student Engagement Major Sponsor, Official Hotel Title Sponsor, Media Sponsor Media Sponsor Through the ongoing support and on quality of life and therefore on the Sponsor, Arts Commons Box Office PCL Blues National Geographic Live Student Engagement generosity of corporations, foundation, competitiveness of Calgary in attracting Sponsor, National governments, and individuals, Calgarians, people and investment. Geographic Live Lead Sponsor, as well as visitors to our wonderful city Arts Education Program have access to Arts Commons, Calgary’s For Explorers Circle and Founders Circle preeminent gathering space. Filled with members, Dave and Roxanne Dunlop, the arts help us tell our stories, to create Series Presenting Media Sponsor Sponsor, EXPLORE Supporting Sponsor, Title Sponsor, wonder and imagination, this is where Sponsor, National National Geographic, BD&P World Music TD Jazz dialogue, and foster compassion. “There Geographic Live National Geographic Live creativity comes to life, remarkable Title Sponsor, experiences are shared, and meaningful are no walls; you walk into a room of Sponsor, EXPLORE TD Arts Access Pass friends at Arts Commons.” When other National Geographic, memories are made to last a lifetime. National Geographic Live languages fail, art can promote tolerance In the midst of the latest economic crisis and provide a forum for exploration, facing Alberta, ALSA Road Construction’s discovery, and understanding. Kinder Morgan Foundation decision to become a Supporting Corporate Sponsors and Sponsored Goods Government Foundation Partners Cont. Supporting Partner, Or Services Sponsor of Arts Commons BD&P World It’s because of the generosity of ALSA, One Day Arts School Operating/Program Support Burns Memorial Fund CBC the Dunlops, and many more friends that Government of Canada through Music and TD Jazz series is nothing less Supporting Partner, Norreen Baker Fund at Media Sponsor the Departments of Canadian than remarkable. ALSA President, Sam Arts Commons is able to continue to be Hub for Inspired Learning Calgary Foundation Heritage, and Service Canada Supporting Partner, Fresh Kitchen a key contributor to the social, economic, Government of Alberta through Kamis, believes that business is a creative Cabra Consulting Ltd. Hub for Inspired Learning Sponsor, VIP Receptions, the Departments of Culture & Tourism, cultural, and intellectual life and well- Supporting Sponsor, EXPLORE BD&P World Music process and that the quality of Calgary’s National Geographic, National Rozsa Foundation Alberta Labour, and the Alberta Roxanne Dunlop (center). © Will Young Foundation for the Arts cultural infrastructure has a direct impact being of Calgarians and visitors. Geographic Live Partner, Foreign Exchange Great Events Group Corp. Grant Program Sponsor, VIP Receptions, TD Jazz The City of Calgary through the Coca-Cola Refreshments Department of Community Services Canada Company SOCAN Foundation Red Tree & Protective Services Official Supplier Supporting Partner, Sponsor, VIP Receptions, Duet Stage National Geographic Live Dinner Optimist Club of Calgary Capital Support “You can always find a way “Arts Commons provides Supporting Partner, Teatro Restaurant Group Government of Canada through Hub for Inspired Learning Corporate Philanthropic Sponsor, Founders Circle Canadian Heritage to give back – even in tough authentic experiences that Donors Harry & Martha Cohen Foundation The City of Calgary through the Department of Community Services economic times.” keep us coming back.” Supporting Partner, Callow & Associates & Protective Services Hub for Inspired Learning Management Consultants Inc. ~ Sam Kamis, President, ALSA Road ~ Dave & Roxanne Dunlop, Explorers Circle Engineered Air – Gift from the Arts Commons Construction – Supporting Sponsor & Founders Circle Members Resman Community Services Endowment Fund at the of BD&P World Music & TD Jazz Calgary Foundation. Board and Staff

Arts Commons is where people from all walks of life can come together. Our staff include: artists, educators, and subject matter experts who commit their time and attention to their work because of their passion for it. Working at Arts Commons is more than a job. We understand the impact the arts have on our community and we are dedicated to bringing the arts to every life. Arts Commons also welcomes members from our greater community to serve on our Board of Directors, bringing fresh viewpoints, and sharing their diverse experience with the staff, volunteers, and patrons of our organization. We are proud to have a member from each of our resident companies currently serving on our Board, bringing their point of view, expertise, and knowledge.

BOARD MEMBER LIST STAFF (SEPT 2015 - AUG 2016)

Angela Avery Terry Aalders Colleen Dickson Jennifer Johnson Daniel Mills General Counsel & Vice President, Legal, Alternate Head Sound Chief Financial Officer Director, Development Business Development and Government Technician Programming Associate Relations, ConocoPhillips Canada Kaija Dirkson John Anderson Creative Manager Saskia Knight Lance Olson Heather Campbell (DS) Programming Development Officer Manager, Facility Regional Director, Sustainable Development Associate Greg Epton Operations Director, Development Technology Canada Tasha Komery Hilary Angrove & External Relations Director, Marketing Donnie Osler David Dunlop Digital Content & Communications Head Stage Carpenter Vice President, Finance, Veresen Inc. Coordinator Megan Fox House Manager Annette Kozicki Carmen Paterson Scott Hutcheson Phil Banks Reception / Finance Arts Learning Chairman & CEO, Aspen Properties Production Systems David Garson Coordinator Production Manager Technician Mirna Kragulj Greg Kudar, Treasurer and Secretary Manager, Marketing Ekaterina Pervakova Matt Gilbutowicz of the Board Tim Beattie Accounting Alternate Head Director, McKinsey & Company Finance Administrator Kristopher Ladd Coordinator Lighting Technician Head Lighting Peter Kufeldt (OYR) Erin Belton Technician Cody Rilling Project Management Consultant Graphic Designer David Gustafson Stage Door / Security Stage Door / Security Richard Lam Supervisor Arun Lakra Chandria Bentley Supervisor Manager, Ophthalmologist, Private Practice Accounting Communications Aleks Rodic Coordinator Niels Hagen Manager, Client & Manager, Booking Alex MacWilliam (ATP) Nikki Latimer Patron Services Partner, Dentons Canada, LLP Leslie Biles & Sales Development Officer Director, Venue & Terry Rowley Rodney McCann Event Management Edward Howard Tony Le May Desktop Support President, North American Resource Lead Operator / Controller Analyst Management Inc. Alex Bonyun Millwright Ling Li Manager, Rikki Schlosser Accounting Jason McIntyre (CICF) Communications Juan Hurtado Alternate Head Stage Sales Director, Microsoft EAT Technical Coordinator (on leave) Carpenter Coordinator James Morton (CPO) Amy Lin Samir Boubenna Alynn Spence Managing Partner, Jarislowsky Fraser Limited Event Sales Manager, IT Karen Hynes Executive Assistant House Manager Coordinator Randy Pettipas (on leave) Audrey Burke President & CEO, Global Public Affairs Kim Imhoff Jodi Lucas Ticketing Services Lucy Tan Payroll & Accounting Programming Coordinator Accounting Holly Schile Coordinator Associate Fine Arts Consultant K-12, Calgary Catholic Coordinator Blair Burrows School Division Jen Jamer Sunny Mand Beverage & Supply Mussie Tsegai Manager, Ticketing Tessatura Database David Smith Coordinator Building Operator Services Administrator President & CEO, Keyera Laura Castle Celina Vides Ticketing Services Jack Jamieson Brian Mason Volunteer Coordinator Henry Sykes QC, Chair of the Board Head Sound Stage Door / Security Corporate Director Coordinator Technician Supervisor Lawrence Wan Mark Thompson (TC) Kevin Chin Building Operator Michaela Jeffery David McDougall Vice President, IT Enterprise Services, Stage Door / Security Executive Assistant JSCH Technical Ken Wieder Enbridge Inc. Supervisor Director Facility Maintenance Wes Jenkins Kathleen Colmant Director, Facility Controller Glennl Miguel Hailey Workalemahu Operations Human Resources Building Operator Keith Day Coordinator Facility Maintenance Natasha Jensen Johann Zietsman Visual and Media Arts David Mikkelsen President & CEO Coordinator Manager, Security & Life Safety Arts Commons 205 – 8th Avenue SE, Calgary, Alberta T2G 0K9 403-294-7455 / artscommons.ca

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Charitable Registration Number 11882 3269 RR0001 (Registered as Calgary Centre for Performing Arts)

Cover: TD Jazz, Gregory Porter, performing on the Jack Singer Concert Hall stage. Back cover: BD&P World Music, Yamato The Drummers of Japan - Bakuon.