Michael Bublé

The Arts Club Theatre Company announced that Canadian performer and longtime Arts Club friend Michael Bublé has stepped forward to support the not-for-profit company’s efforts to re-open its doors. Bublé recently created a personal video to encourage donations to the Arts Club’s fundraising campaign, on now through July 31.

Before becoming an international superstar, the Burnaby native performed at both the Arts Club’s Granville Island and the Stanley Industrial Alliance Stages. In 1998, Bublé starred in Dean Regan’s musical Swing!, the inaugural Arts Club production at the revitalized Stanley.

“The Stanley opened with the big band musical Swing! featuring the young, talented, charismatic Michael Bublé. What a thrill it was to feature Michael on our stage before he stepped into worldwide fame,” according to Artistic Director Emeritus Bill Millerd.
 

The Arts Club is now at another pivotal moment in its history. After 15 months of suspended operations, the organization is turning to the community for help as it emerges from the impact of the pandemic.

Since the initial ban on public gatherings, 24 productions have been cancelled; as a result, the Arts Club has laid off and cancelled contracts for over 660 artists and staff. The company has lost over $13 million in ticket revenue.

While the Arts Club produced one-person shows last fall at its Newmont Stage at the BMO Theatre Centre and offered digital streaming, all three of its venues now remain dark. This summer’s fundraising efforts will be vital to the company’s re-opening.

“Just know this: that without places like the Arts Club, there wouldn’t be close to as many opportunities for Canadian artists to learn and work and grow,” shares Bublé in his video. The Arts Club looks forward to welcoming theatre lovers in person and flourishing again.

About the Matching Campaign

The Longhedge Foundation, a longtime Arts Club supporter, has generously pledged $100,000 to match all gifts made to the Arts Club through July 31. Tax-deductible donations can be made online or by phone (604.687.5315, ext. 847). All proceeds from the campaign will support the re-opening of the Arts Club’s three venues.

No Comments

No comments yet.

RSS feed for comments on this post.

Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.