UNIQUE VENUE REPORT The Rooms ST. JOHN’S, NFLD. THE OVERVIEW: The design of The Rooms—dedicated to preserving the province’s cultural heritage—mirrors the fishing rooms where families came together to process their catch. The stunning open design and breathtaking views make it a memorable choice. Several spaces are available, both separately and together. When combined, Levels 2 and 3 of the multi-level atrium can host standing receptions of up to 500. Outdoors, the beautiful landscaped Fortis Courtyard with amphitheatre accommodates up to 600 standing. GREAT FOR: Receptions, sit-down dinners, galas. PLANNING NOTES: The Rooms has exclusive catering and AV partners. During evening events, access to permanent galleries for self-guided viewing can be arranged for a fee. therooms.ca Bill Reid Gallery VANCOUVER THE OVERVIEW: Named after the acclaimed Haida artist Bill Reid, the gallery is home to the Simon Fraser University Bill Reid Collection and special exhibitions of contempo- rary Indigenous art and is available for rent when closed to the public. Attendees can mingle amidst the stunning gold jewelry and spectac- ular sculptures of Bill Reid and the towering totem pole by James Hart. Docents are available for hire to enrich the experience even further. GREAT FOR: Cultural, media, corporate and private events, receptions, lectures and celebratory dinners. PLANNING NOTES: Located in downtown Vancouver and within walking distance from several hotels. Cocktail events for up to 200 people; gala dinners on the main floor can accommodate up to 90 people. The venue works exclusively with Bon Vivant Catering; Indigenous catering can be provided upon request. There is under- ground parking and a loading bay. billreidgallery.ca Memorial Hall Auditorium FREDRICTON, NB THE OVERVIEW: This space at the University of New Brunswick exudes history and traditional charm: It was built in 1923, in commemoration of students and alumni who fought and died in the First World War, and features stained glass, warm wood panelling and vaulted ceilings. GREAT FOR: Receptions, exhibitions, theatre and musical performances (there’s a grand piano onsite) and keynote addresses. PLANNING NOTES: The space holds a maximum of 150 people seated in rows, 80 around tables and 200 reception-style. There are no kitchen facilities in Memo- rial Hall, but the exclusive caterer, Chartwells, prepares food in on-campus kitch- ens. There are other event spaces in Memorial Hall and on campus. unb.ca/fredericton Baillie Court, Art Gallery of Ontario TORONTO THE OVERVIEW: A modern, bright space designed by Frank Gehry specifically for events, this space has all the bells and whistles: Private washrooms, freight elevator, soundproof Douglas fir air wall and a dedicated event kitchen—along with a team of event planners, AV specialists, banquet managers and chefs. GREAT FOR: Receptions, dinners, galas, corporate daytime meetings, product launches, mini-trade shows. PLANNING NOTES: Up to 450 guests for a standing reception or up to 400 guests for a seated dinner. The dedicated, in-house food and beverage operation, AGO Kitchens, can create custom menus made with fresh, local ingredients. The gallery offers many other stunning spaces for events. ago.ca by Laura Bickle CULTURAL GEMS PHOTO: 515 PHOTO CO. PHOTOS: COURTESY OF VENUES UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED. 54 | Ignitemag.ca | Spring 2024
