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Confluence Plans 16,000-Seat Outdoor Theatre
28 May
Summary
- A 16,000-spectator outdoor theatre is proposed for future renovations.
- An NHL-sized open-air hockey rink is part of the revitalization strategy.
- The site aims to honor history while attracting more downtown events.
The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland is embarking on a 20-year strategy for major renovations, aiming to revitalize the space and attract more events to the city's downtown east end. A key aspect of this plan is the proposal for a large outdoor theatre designed to accommodate 16,000 spectators, alongside an NHL-sized open-air hockey rink.
This ambitious concept also includes a pow wow venue, reflecting the site's historical significance as an Indigenous gathering place. The plan, developed by O2 Planning and Design, seeks to honor this legacy while introducing modern facilities. The theatre would feature covered seating for 3,000 and lawn space for an additional 13,000.
While smaller upgrades are budgeted, the full vision's cost is undetermined. Feasibility studies and federal government funding discussions are underway. If successful, construction of major structures like the rink and theatre could take 10 to 15 years. The site, located at the confluence of the Bow and Elbow Rivers, was historically Fort Calgary and was renamed in 2024.
