2012 National Conference Companions Program

Thursday, May 3, 2012

For a first hand look at the workings back stage

About The Grand on September 9, 1901 the New Grand Opera House welcomed its first patrons, who watched an opening night performance of the popular melodrama Way Down East.

In 1924, the theatre was purchased by Famous Players Inc. and became a movie house. Between 1945 and 1971, the building was owned and operated by the London Little Theatre. It was one of Canada’s most active and successful amateur theatre companies.

The building itself was beginning to show signs of age and in 1977 it underwent a $5 million renovation. It reopened in 1978 to reclaim its status as one of the most beautiful theatres in Canada. The architectural firm that undertook the renovations was awarded a Governor-General’s award for their re-design of The Grand.

The Grand is an excellent example of the Proscenium Arch Theatre and is one of the more traditional forms of theatrical design. It was designed to send music and sound from the stage into the audience.

After the Theatre a short walk to the Market for lunch and time to visit the market

To Market, To Market!

Visit the Covent Garden Market and discover what's fresh for you! Formally established in 1845, Covent Garden Market is one of London Ontario's most treasured cultural landmarks. Today, the Market is a centre of rural and urban exchange where wholesome, farm-fresh quality can be found each day of the week - from the city's best selection of organic foods, award-winning meats, ethnic foods, and the largest assortment of cheese in Southwestern Ontario to tempting sweets, beautiful flowers, and elegant restaurants.

Friday, May 4, 2012

Take a one and a half hour morning bus tour of the city of London accompanied by a step on guide.

Ride to Stratford: take the scenic 45 minute drive to Stratford. Set in the heart of Southern Ontario, the city of Stratford is a cultural jewel. Step into the excitement of a vibrant city core or stroll through beautiful parks beside a peaceful lake. Victorian architecture, treelined streets and outstanding restaurants. Eat a sumptuous restaurant meal before dashing off to stroll leisurely through the city before returning to London.

Saturday, May 5, 2012

After a short walk from the Delta visit the London Museum and Eldon House.

The heart of a great museum is its collection and Museum London is proud to have one of Canada's most important art collections, and one of the most significant historical artifact collections in Ontario. Our art collection has more than 5,000 regional and Canadian works and our 25,000 artifacts reflect the history of the City of London as an important regional urban centre in Southwestern Ontario. Museum London also operates Eldon House, the oldest single family residence in the City of London, perfectly preserved and furnished with exquisite antiques and treasures. Eldon House was built in 1834 for John and Amelia Harris and remained in the Harris family for four successive generations. In 1960, the Harris family donated Eldon House to the City of London.

Enjoy lunch at a near by restaurant before strolling back to the Delta for a free afternoon.