Art Gallery of Alberta EDMONTON THE OVERVIEW: With angular windows set against a sinuous 190-metre steel ribbon that evokes the North Saskatchewan River and Aurora Borealis, the Art Gallery of Alberta’s striking architecture is itself a work of art, drawing inspiration from the city’s distinctive northern environment and grid-like urban design. This contemporary venue offers several spaces to perfectly accommodate meetings and events of varying sizes, including the naturally-lit Main Hall and Atrium that accommodates 300 for standing receptions and 190 seated, a 30-seat boardroom, 167-seat theatre, and uniquely-designed ‘floating’ Borealis Room that can host 30 guests. GREAT FOR: Galas, cocktail receptions, executive meetings, seminars, conferences, keynotes, exhibitions. PLANNING NOTES: In the downtown Edmonton Arts District; catering provided by the Edmonton Convention Centre; cutting-edge AV amenities. youraga.ca FUNKY by Rose Filice Pipe Shop Venue at The Shipyards VANCOUVER THE OVERVIEW: Built in the 1940’s, the Pipe Shop waterfront heritage building has been beautifully restored with modern convenienc- es and an edgy industrial vibe. The expansive 7,900-sq.-ft. open-concept venue features its original wooden beams, an abundance of natural light, sleek concrete floors and whim- sical festoon lighting. The space is completely customizable, offering endless possibilities for creative planners. The adjacent Wallace Ven- ue offers 6,000 sq. ft. of additional indoor and outdoor space, perfectly suited to breakout sessions or VIP receptions. GREAT FOR: Receptions, conferences, small trade shows, product launches, AGMs. PLANNING NOTES: 360 standing and 300 seated; all rentals, decor and catering must be brought in; venue has a list of preferred vendors; open-concept catering kitchen on- site; 23-ft. feature wall for A/V projections. pipeshopvenue.com Arcadia Earth TORONTO THE OVERVIEW: This new attraction in down- town Toronto is a multi-sensory experience using immersive technology animated by augmented reality, virtual reality, projection mapping and interactive environments meant to showcase the beauty of our planet and inspire viewers to take steps towards sustainability. The exhibitions, which take guests on a captivating journey through underwater worlds, fantasy lands and inspiring art installations, are an extraordinary backdrop for private events. GREAT FOR: Networking receptions, workshops, product launches, executive dinners. PLANNING NOTES: 66 in a theatre set-up in The Hub; 200 standing in The Lounge; cocktail receptions for 300-350 with full buyout; branding opportunities and customized experiences; catering by Oliver & Bonacini. arcadiaearth.ca Le Balcon MONTREAL THE OVERVIEW: Set within the historic Saint- James Church in Montreal’s Quartier des Spectacles district, the lively ambience of this sophisticated cabaret venue perfectly complements the gothic-style architecture that dates back to 1860. From elegant dinner theatre to chic cocktail receptions, private events are elevated with world-class performances in music, dance and artistic exhibitions. Exceptional cuisine prepared onsite, with options for culinary stations, custom menus and mixologists to round out the experience. GREAT FOR: Galas, red carpets, awards ceremonies, fundraisers, concerts, keynotes. PLANNING NOTES: Up to 350, dependant on seating configuration; Wi-Fi, technical direc- tor and stage management, chief lighting designer and console, video projection equip- ment, a screen, microphones and wireless microphones are available; drums and baby grand piano. lebalcon.ca UNIQUE VENUE REPORT PHOTO: GEORGE PIMENTEL PHOTOGRAPHY 56 | Ignitemag.ca | Spring 2024
