Shenkman Arts Centre

Shenkman Arts Centre Ottawa: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and In-Depth Guide (2025)

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction: Discover Ottawa’s Cultural Beacon

Situated in the heart of Orléans, Ottawa, the Shenkman Arts Centre is a modern cultural hub that celebrates artistic diversity and community engagement. Since opening its doors in 2009, the Centre has become a landmark for live performances, visual arts, and creative workshops. Whether you’re a resident or planning a visit to Ottawa’s east end, the Shenkman Arts Centre offers a dynamic blend of entertainment, education, and cultural enrichment. This guide provides essential information on visiting hours, ticketing, facilities, accessibility, travel tips, and more to help you plan your visit effectively (Shenkman Arts Centre Official Website; Ottawa Tourism - Shenkman Arts Centre).

Introduction: The Shenkman Arts Centre
History and Vision
Architecture and Facilities
Performance Spaces
Visual Arts Studios and Galleries
Community Amenities
Visiting Hours & Ticketing
Accessibility and Sustainability
Programming and Events Overview
Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions
Visuals and Media Resources
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Plan Your Visit and Stay Connected
Sources

History and Vision

The Shenkman Arts Centre was conceived in the early 2000s to address the cultural needs of Orléans’ growing and diverse population. Named in honor of philanthropist Harold Shenkman, the project was realized through a public-private partnership between the City of Ottawa and the Orléans Town Centre Partnership. The Centre opened in June 2009, following extensive community input and a $36 million investment. Its mission is to provide a multidisciplinary venue for performances, exhibitions, art education, and community gatherings, serving as both a creative incubator and a catalyst for cultural development.

Architecture and Facilities

Building Highlights

Designed by Lalande + Doyle Architects in collaboration with Griffiths Rankin Cook, the 8,000-square-metre facility embodies contemporary architectural principles while echoing the local landscape. The exterior features beige stone, orange-red brick, cement board, and resin panel, with a striking 21-metre tower displaying the Centre’s name (Ottawa Citizen; Shenkman Arts Centre). The Centre integrates seamlessly into the Orléans Town Centre, adjacent to community facilities and the YM-YWCA, forming a nucleus for local development.

Performance Spaces

Harold Shenkman Hall: A 500-seat proscenium theatre with advanced acoustics, a 3,640-square-foot stage, full fly system, sprung floors, and an orchestra shell. The hall is acoustically isolated for optimal sound quality and features backstage amenities including dressing rooms, a green room, and a wardrobe area (Ottawa.ca).
Richcraft Theatre: A 162-seat black box studio with flexible seating, ideal for experimental theatre, small performances, and workshops. Shared backstage facilities enhance versatility (Shenkman Arts Centre).

Visual Arts Studios and Galleries

Seven Galleries: Including the Trinity Art Gallery and LaLande + Doyle Exhibition Space, these present rotating exhibitions by local, national, and international artists.
Seventeen Studios: Facilities for pottery (in partnership with Gloucester Pottery School), painting, sculpture, dance, music, and theatre. Many studios are flooded with natural light and equipped for both beginners and professionals.
Community and Event Spaces: Spacious lobbies, meeting rooms, a licensed bar, concessions, coat check, Wi-Fi, and outdoor agora for open-air events (Shenkman Arts Centre).

Visiting Hours & Ticketing

Hours: Generally open Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Extended hours during performances and special events. Closed Sundays and Mondays except for ticketed events. Some sources indicate Sunday openings for special programming—confirm on the official website.
Tickets: Purchase tickets online via the Shenkman Arts Centre website, by phone, or at the box office. Prices vary by event, with discounts for students, seniors, and groups. Early booking is advisable for popular shows.
Admission: Many exhibitions and artisan markets are free; ticketed events are individually priced.
Parking & Transit: Free on-site parking and accessible OC Transpo bus routes. Bike-friendly and well-signposted from downtown and the airport.

Accessibility and Sustainability

Full wheelchair accessibility, including ramps, elevators, reserved seating, and accessible washrooms.
Assisted listening devices are available for performances.
LEED-certified building, reflecting environmental sustainability and energy efficiency (Ottawa.ca).
Inclusive programming and a Safer Spaces Policy foster a welcoming environment for all, including initiatives amplifying Indigenous and multicultural voices.

Programming and Events Overview

The Shenkman Arts Centre hosts a robust calendar of multidisciplinary events year-round:

Performing Arts: Concerts (jazz, blues, folk, classical, pop), theatre, musicals, and dance performances in both English and French.
Visual Arts: Rotating exhibitions, artist talks, and sculpture installations in partnership with the Ottawa School of Art and local collectives.
Workshops & Education: Pottery, painting, dance, and theatre classes for all ages, plus youth camps and creative workshops.
Community Markets: Artisan events like Fetch Local Markets and June Breeze Market, featuring local vendors and live entertainment.
Family & Youth: Children’s theatre, arts camps, and interactive educational programming.
Special Events: Multicultural festivals (ArohaFest), comedy showcases (“In the Black”), and anniversary celebrations.

Resident arts partners include Arts Network Ottawa, Gloucester Pottery School, MIFO, Ottawa School of Art – Orléans Campus, and Ottawa School of Theatre.

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

Early Arrival: Explore galleries and the lobby café before performances.
Dining: Wide variety of nearby restaurants and cafés in the Centrum Plaza area.
Nearby Attractions: Visit Petrie Island Park, ByWard Market, Parliament Hill, and other Ottawa historical sites within a short drive or transit ride.
Hotels: Multiple lodging options are available within close proximity for evening or multi-day visits.

Visuals and Media Resources

Virtual Tours: Explore the Centre’s architecture and galleries online for a preview of what to expect (Shenkman Arts Centre).
Photo Galleries: High-resolution images with descriptive alt tags such as “Shenkman Arts Centre exterior” and “Harold Shenkman Hall performance” enhance accessibility.
Social Media: Follow the Centre for event updates, artist features, and behind-the-scenes content.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Shenkman Arts Centre’s opening hours?
A: Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours for events. Check the website for specific event and gallery hours.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Purchase online via the official site, by phone, or at the box office.

Q: Is the Centre accessible?
A: Yes. All public spaces are wheelchair accessible, and accessible parking is available.

Q: Are there guided tours?
A: Available by appointment and for select events. Inquire via the official website.

Q: Is parking free?
A: Yes, on-site parking is complimentary for visitors.

Q: Are children welcome?
A: Most events are family-friendly with no age restrictions.

Plan Your Visit and Stay Connected

For the latest event schedules, ticket availability, and updates on programming, visit the Shenkman Arts Centre Official Website or Ottawa Tourism - Shenkman Arts Centre. Download the Audiala app for seamless ticketing and notifications about Ottawa’s arts scene. Follow the Centre on social media to stay engaged with the local arts community.