Design plans for new $65M waterfront performing arts centre unveiled in Barrie

The mayor gave a first look at the design plan for a new $65 million waterfront performing arts centre in Barrie.

The city’s arts community got a glimpse into the future with the first look at the design for a new $65 million waterfront performing arts centre in Barrie.

The planned 45,000-square-foot facility will be built on the land around the Spirit Catcher and the Sea Cadets’ current site, once the cadets move to their new location.

The centre is set to become a vibrant hub for Barrie’s arts scene, featuring a variety of venues including a 600-seat performance hall and a gala space that can hold up to 1,000 guests.

The reveal came as a highlight during the Barrie Arts Awards, where six local artists were honoured for their contributions to the city’s cultural life with awards designed by a local artist.

“I just wanted to make sure we shared it with the people of Barrie and certainly those who are going to be performing and making that space live and it’s just a good opportunity to share that news,” said Mayor Alex Nuttall.

The new centre promises to provide a state-of-the-art venue to showcase talent and host significant events in the community.