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Conrad Centre for the Performing Arts Operational Model

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The project is now complete. On Nov. 18, 2024 Kitchener City Council approved a new operating model for the Conrad Centre for the Performing Arts (CCPA). Moving forward, the City will lead venue operations with the support of Green Light Arts – a non-profit arts organization. For more information about the CCPA, visit www.kitchener.ca/ConradCentre 


The Conrad Centre for the Performing Arts (CCPA) is a vibrant and dynamic cultural space in the heart of downtown Kitchener.

We are exploring new operating models for how to best maximize the use of the Conrad Centre’s facilities. We'd like to hear from all kinds of audiences, including:

  • Conrad Centre enthusiasts, like former season’s pass holders
  • Occasional visitors, even those who only went to that one show that one time
  • People who’ve never been to the Conrad, but might like to
  • People who go to arts and culture events elsewhere here or in other cities
  • Residents who live in and around downtown Kitchener

If you’ve been before, tell us about your experiences at the Centre and how we might improve. Even if you haven't, let us know about your experiences at other venues so we can understand your interests. Finally, share your ideas for how we can best use the Centre’s facilities to support the performing arts.

Your contributions are important and will help us present recommendations that best meet our community’s needs. Thank you for your participation!

Stay informed

Subscribe for updates and be the first to know about news and information about this project. Add your email to the Stay Informed box on this page and click ‘Subscribe’.


The Conrad Centre for the Performing Arts (CCPA) is a vibrant and dynamic cultural space in the heart of downtown Kitchener.

We are exploring new operating models for how to best maximize the use of the Conrad Centre’s facilities. We'd like to hear from all kinds of audiences, including:

  • Conrad Centre enthusiasts, like former season’s pass holders
  • Occasional visitors, even those who only went to that one show that one time
  • People who’ve never been to the Conrad, but might like to
  • People who go to arts and culture events elsewhere here or in other cities
  • Residents who live in and around downtown Kitchener

If you’ve been before, tell us about your experiences at the Centre and how we might improve. Even if you haven't, let us know about your experiences at other venues so we can understand your interests. Finally, share your ideas for how we can best use the Centre’s facilities to support the performing arts.

Your contributions are important and will help us present recommendations that best meet our community’s needs. Thank you for your participation!

Stay informed

Subscribe for updates and be the first to know about news and information about this project. Add your email to the Stay Informed box on this page and click ‘Subscribe’.

The project is now complete. On Nov. 18, 2024 Kitchener City Council approved a new operating model for the Conrad Centre for the Performing Arts (CCPA). Moving forward, the City will lead venue operations with the support of Green Light Arts – a non-profit arts organization. For more information about the CCPA, visit www.kitchener.ca/ConradCentre 

  • Council approves new operating model for Conrad Centre

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    Council has approved a new operating model for the Conrad Centre for the Performing Arts. The new model considers the needs of:

    • the local performing arts community
    • audience members
    • the core competencies of venue management
    • Council’s 2023-2026 strategic plan
    • Council’s long-term vision for culture and entertainment in Kitchener

    Moving forward, the City will lead venue operations with the support of Green Light Arts – a non-profit arts organization. A City-led operating model will help staff meet the mandate of the Conrad Centre, while recognizing the needs of performing arts organizations and presenters. A mentorship services agreement between the City and Green Light Arts will be in effect until June 30, 2026.

  • Oct. 28 Report to Committee

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    We presented a report to the Finance and Corporate Services Committee on Oct. 28, 2024. This report presented the outcomes of our community engagement process, which informed our proposed operating model.

    Highlights of the model include:

    • A new mandate for the CCPA to become a vibrant, active cultural hub that supports a broad spectrum of genres, in a transparent and accessible manner
    • A City-led operating model that best delivers on the community’s expectations
    • A hybrid financial model is enacted, where the City provides a reasonable service-level to presenters and the community, with limited financial burden to the tax base
    • A non-profit arts organization providing mentorship services to emerging arts organizations and assisting with the operation of the CCPA as it transitions to a City-led operating model


    The Committee approved this new model, but Council will vote to formally approve it at an upcoming council meeting.

    To read the report or watch the presentation, please visit the meeting agenda