SMS Equipment Bolsters Future of Winspear Centre with Major Gift

SMS Equipment has made a generous contribution to the capital campaign for the expansion of the Winspear Centre, a project that will transform the Edmonton performance space into a 215,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art cultural attraction dedicated to enhancing the accessibility of music in the community.

A hub for art, culture and community

The Winspear is a world-class concert facility and home to the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra and the Tommy Banks Centre for Musical Creativity, which provides innovative educational programs that offer broader access to musical discovery fostering inclusion across diverse age groups and backgrounds. The expansion will add a second concert hall, classrooms, music studios, and mixed-use immersive spaces that serve artists, youth and community groups across the province. It will also include outdoor public space and create daytime access to the facility for public exploration.

“Investing in the Winspear expansion is investing in a cultural hub of Northern Alberta,” says Kelly-Ann Cordner, SMS Equipment’s EVP of Human Resources & CHRO. “We’re committed to enhancing the quality of life for the people that live in the places where we operate, including our Acheson head office near Edmonton.”

“This project further aligns with our community investment pillar of ‘Arts, Culture & Leisure,’” notes Cordner. “In addition to delivering world-class arts experiences, the new Winspear Centre promotes inclusivity, connection and creativity – values that help communities thrive.”

A celebration of innovation

SMS Equipment became the first corporate donor to support the Winspear expansion in a capital campaign that is gaining steam. Upon the project’s completion, SMS Equipment will sponsor building tours highlighting the exceptional design and engineering solutions throughout the property.

“As a company focused on technology and innovation, we are excited to support the development of this leading-edge facility,” added Robin Heard, SMS Equipment’s President & CEO. “The original Winspear and its expansion demonstrate incredible creativity, with every detail considered to maximize acoustics, engage visitors and meet the needs of its diverse audiences. We look forward to visitors learning about the behind-the-scenes innovations that make it a world-class destination.”

The tour will feature the Centre’s inspiring architectural design and acoustic performance. From the floor gaps created to shield the Orchestral Hall from outside sonic disturbances to modifications that minimize vibrations from the LRT tracks below, how the Outdoor Pavilion embraces its natural environment, to the district district energy plant that heats the expanded building and other buildings downtown, visitors will learn how innovation and artistry come together at the new Winspear.

Learn more about the Winspear expansion here.