Slaight Foundation Adds $5M More To Massey Hall Project

By External Source

The Slaight Family Foundation has donated another $5 million to the Massey Hall Revitalization Project, for a total of $10 million. In celebration of this generous contribution, Massey Hall’s auditorium will be named in honour of The Slaight Family Foundation founder, Allan Slaight, a consummate supporter of the arts and a pillar of the philanthropic sector in Canada.

“Our family is pleased to know that our father’s legacy will be celebrated in this storied hall where so much musical history has been made and that our donation will have a powerful impact for the future of music in Canada,” states Gary Slaight, President and CEO, The Slaight Family Foundation.

The Slaight Family Foundation have been steadfast champions of the Massey Hall Revitalization Project since its inception with their 2017 lead donation of $5 million. In appreciation of this early support, the iconic Massey Hall stage was named The Allan Slaight Stage and a hand-carved plaque was commissioned and displayed in the Massey Hall lobby.

With this additional $5 million bequest towards the project, The Slaight Family Foundation's overall $10 million donation helps ensure the internationally famous concert venue's stature and operation as the crown jewel of Canada’s live music scene for future generations of music fans and artists.

“This incredible gift serves as a beacon of hope amid challenging times for the live music community, ensuring Canada’s most iconic concert hall will continue hosting defining moments in our culture for generations to come," said Jesse Kumagai, President and CEO, The Corporation of Massey Hall and Roy Thomson Hall, in a statement. "We are profoundly grateful for The Slaight Family Foundation’s generosity and proud to honour a true Canadian broadcast legend.”

About the Slaight Family Foundation:

The Slaight Family Foundation was established in 2008 by John Allan Slaight. Allan Slaight is known as Canada’s broadcast pioneer, music leader and prominent Canadian philanthropist. Through his generosity, the Foundation proactively supports charitable initiatives in the areas of healthcare, at-risk youth, international development, social services and culture. The Slaight Family Foundation is overseen by Allan’s son Gary.

About the Massey Hall Project:  

Massey Hall is currently undergoing the most significant renovation in its 126-year history. This Revitalization Project will protect and celebrate Massey Hall's heritage and propel its magnificent legacy for artists and fans for another century and beyond. The project will restore and renew both the interior and exterior of this National Historic Site. It will also improve patron amenities, accessibility and open two new music venues, expanding the scope of the artist development and education and outreach initiatives. The original stained glass windows will return during the venue's refurbishment. For more information, visit masseyhall.com.

About the Corporation of Massey Hall and Roy Thomson Hall: 

The Corporation of Massey Hall and Roy Thomson Hall is a not-for-profit charitable organization operating two of Canada’s premier concert halls. Showcasing the world’s greatest performers in all disciplines, the two halls are also prominent venues for diverse activities in the business and entertainment district of downtown Toronto. The Corporation’s mission is to provide an internationally renowned entertainment centre to host the world’s top performers and events; to provide public space for the cultural and corporate communities of the Greater Toronto Area; to support the development of Canadian talent; to increase and enhance its worldwide profile as a leader in the arts community through its professionalism and programming.

- This story was updated at 8 am to reflect a change in the copy.