Gravenhurst Opera House marks 125 years with multi-day concert celebration

The Gravenhurst Opera House is celebrating its 125th anniversary with special concert including stars like like Chantal Kreviazuk and Raine Maida.

The Gravenhurst Opera House is celebrating a significant milestone.

With 125 years of providing live performances and entertainment in the arts, the opera house is treating the community to a special concert featuring a lineup of Grammy and Juno award-winning artists.

“The opera house is such a staple in our community. We are so fortunate to have it,” says Mayor Heidi Lorenz. “It’s been the home for weddings, funerals, community celebrations, the kids from the schools use it. It’s been a hub for entertainment for as long as it’s been standing.”

Canadian musical power couple Chantal Kreviazuk and Raine Maida will close out the celebrations on Sat., March 14 at 7:30 p.m.

Both artists have had prominent careers.

Kreviazuk, most known for hits like “Leaving on a Jetplane” and “Feels Like Home”, has won a Grammy and three JUNO awards.

Not only is Maida the frontman for Canadian band Our Lady Peace that’s won four JUNO awards, but he’s gone onto have a successful solo career.

Together, the couple has written hits for big names like Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood.

Crash Test Dummies, the Canadian rock band from Winnipeg that rose to fame in the ‘90s, will take the stage on Fri. March 13 at 7:30 p.m.

Known for hits like “Mmm, Mmm, Mmm, Mmm” and “Superman’s Song”, the band has been nominated for three Grammys and has won MTV Europe Music and JUNO awards.

Both shows cost $75.

There are plenty of free activities for the community as well.

The Town of Gravenhurst will start the festivities on Thurs., March 12 with a free concert for the community featuring a lineup of several musicians including fiddle player Miranda Mulholland, Bet Smith and the Currie Brothers, an alt-folk and country band, and many other local and regional artists.

The public can reserve a maximum of four tickets.

There will also be a community market, featuring local vendors and food in the Heritage Square across from the opera house on Sat. March 14 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

“The opera house is a cherished part of the vibrant arts and entertainment scene in our community, and we look forward to marking this special year with everyone who loves this historic downtown building,” Lorenz said.

Details on the show can be found on the Town of Gravenhurst website.