Quesnel Live Arts History
It all started a little over 50 years ago with a group of people who wanted to bring some live performances to Quesnel. It had never been done before and they didn't know how many people would attend, or even if they could get enough money together to bring the performers in. In the 1960-61 Season, three shows were presented, with a budget of $1750, and an audience of 250 members.
The group has had a few name changes over the years, starting with the Quesnel Concerts Association in 1975, affiliated with Overture Concerts. There were 400 audience members and the budget was increased to $3750.00. The name was changed to Quesnel Live Arts – a committee of the Quesnel and District Arts council in 1981. The grand piano was first used in the 1983-1984 season when Holly Arnstzen was in Quesnel for a performance. Members of the community enjoyed a benefit concert for the African Drought Relief Fund in the 1984-85 season. The opening concert sponsored by Quesnel Live Arts was on October 30, 1981, in the new Correlieu Theatre. Ticket prices were $6 and $4. Quesnel Live Arts became a full non-profit society in September 1990.
About Us
We are a group of volunteers who love live arts performances. Our interests are varied: Gay loves classical, Marilyn loves contemporary rock/pop, Gloria loves brass groups, Brenda loves flamenco guitar, Mike likes all sorts of music; dance, and theatre that uplifts, delights and connects him with humanity. Doreen loves the classic country and blues performers, Don loves the theatrical performances, Fred loves all the variety and Colleen loves anybody who can get up on the stage. We all love a bit of dance, comedy and variety. Even though we have our favourite types of music and performers, we seek out a wide variety of high quality affordable entertainment for the Quesnel community. We have a dedicated audience of season ticket subscribers, some of whom have purchased season tickets since our early days.
We are determined to keep the ticket prices affordable. We strongly believe that young people with an interest in the arts should be encouraged to attend live performances, and regularly give them special rates to attend specific shows.