After years of planning and construction, Aurora’s Town Square is set for its weeks-long grand opening celebration that kicks off Saturday.
The official opening is being marked with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Saturday, Sept. 21 from 1 to 2 p.m. in the new facility’s outdoor square.
The festivities include a procession from Town Park to the outdoor square, led by the town crier, a performance by St. Andrew’s College Pipe and Drums Band, and a traditional smudging ceremony by Anishinaabe Grandmother Kim Wheatley.
That begins three weeks of performances and events from Sept. 21 to Oct. 13.
Samantha Mahoney, a spokesperson for Aurora Town Square, said a number of events have already sold out, while others are nearing capacity.
“Some of those events are already sold out, so that’s been great to see that community response," said Mahoney. "Then we do have a number of events that are nearing sold out, too, one of those being the Norman Dance Company this coming Saturday night. Many of our film screenings, too, very limited seating available.”
The Norman Dance Company is set to take to the stage on opening night, performing a routine choreographed by Tia Lu, which “draws inspiration from four seasonal flowers, illustrating their essences through four different styles of Chinese dance,” according to the town.
The performance starts at 7 p.m. in the Town Square performance hall. Tickets are being sold online.
The new performance centre includes a 250-seat theatre, with seating that retracts with a push of a button and a flat stage.
“We’ve had a great response, we’ve been hearing a lot of excitement from the community to come check out the space, as well as to come check out the different performances,” added Mahoney. “We have such a diverse line-up, so there’s really something for everyone of all ages.”
Also on the Saturday, the Aurora Museum & Cultural Centre is hosting a re-opening party for its galleries on Sept. 21 from 4 to 7 p.m., with a number of projects being unveiled. Entry to the event is free.
Aurora Culture Days
The grand opening of Town Square also coincides with Aurora marking Culture Days, with a number of local organizations partnering with the town for events.
The schedule runs from Sept. 20 to Oct. 13, with a celebration planned for Sept. 22 at Aurora Town Square, with a variety of activities, including pottery demonstrations, a Bollywood dance workshop and a chance to play road tennis, which originated in Barbados.
More information about the full schedule of events can be found online.
During the grand opening, the Aurora Cultural Centre will also be kicking off its 2024-2025 season, Up Close & Musical, on Sept. 27 with Juno-nominated Barbra Lica and her 5-piece band, supported by opening artist Charlotte "Trombone Charlotte" McAfee-Brunner.
More information, how to buy tickets and the full schedule for performances can be found at AuroraTownSquare.ca.
