Have you ever wondered what it means not just to experience the arts, but to help make it happen? At Arts Commons, soon to be Werklund Centre, being a donor isn’t just about giving; it’s about becoming part of something bigger, a community rooted in connection, creativity, and belonging.
There are so many reasons to give: whether you're joining Founders Circle to support our presenting series, becoming part of Explorers Circle to champion National Geographic Live, or investing in education initiatives that help ensure access to the arts for young Calgarians. No matter how you choose to give, your support brings powerful stories to life and ensures the arts remain vibrant and accessible in our community.
Founders Circle donors are the heartbeat of our presenting series, helping bring legends like Jane Goodall, Rosanne Cash, and Louise Penny to the stage. In appreciation, we host five exclusive events for members each season, featuring visiting artists such as Disney’s Lea Salonga, Canadian icon Jann Arden, or the entire band from Classic Albums Live. In fact, the 2024–25 Season concluded with an impromptu private rock ’n’ roll serenade for our members in one of the building’s backstage rehearsal rooms with Craig Martin, founder of Classic Albums Live.
So what are the benefits when you donate $100 or more? You receive a tax receipt for your donation, a night out with a host bar, great company, and direct access to the unexpected. Date night, anyone?
National Geographic Live’s Explorers Circle draws supporters who believe in storytelling, science, and the power of discovery. And sometimes, a gift leads to more than just inspiration — it opens the door to adventure.
At Hunt for the Sleeping Giants, National Geographic Live Engagement Sponsor Nyssa Moore met Explorer Andrés Ruzo, who shared the challenges of recording pressure readings in the Boiling River deep in Peru’s Amazon. Nyssa, whose professional background gave her the skills to help, figured out how to get it done. She sourced the specialized equipment he needed, packed it into a golf bag, and headed to the Peruvian jungle to join the expedition as a field assistant.
For Nyssa, the experience was life-changing, not only because of the scientific work but because of the deep bond she formed with her fellow adventurers. What began with an Explorers Circle membership has now become a reminder to dream big and a testament to where generosity can lead.
"Nothing brings people together more than a shared purpose." - Nyssa Moore
Not every donor ends up on an Amazonian expedition, but every gift has the power to spark connection, curiosity, and community. Donating to Werklund Centre does more than bring performances to life or offer behind-the-scenes access. It creates a real, lasting impact.
Since 2021, donor support has allowed us to significantly expand our educational programming year over year, ensuring that all Calgary students have access to hands-on, arts-directed learning. Thanks to this support, the ConocoPhillips Hub for Inspired Learning has evolved to include programs for students with diverse learning abilities to help them engage with the arts in ways tailored to their needs. One blind student with autism discovered tactile art as a new way to connect with the world. Another, nonverbal for years, burst into laughter while improvising on stage. These are more than touching stories –– they are reminders that the arts can redefine what’s possible.
Being a donor means creating moments that matter. Whether you're sharing a drink with a world-class artist, helping bring science to life, or supporting students who need it most, your generosity ripples outward.
So if you've ever wondered what it means to be more than an audience member, this is your invitation. A gift of just $100 opens the door to exclusive events, unforgettable encounters, and the chance to make something extraordinary happen. Whether you’re a lover of the arts, a believer in exploration, or someone who simply wants to give back, there’s a place for you at Werklund Centre.
Learn more about our programs and how you can support the arts in Calgary.
Header image: Classic Albums Live performs for Founders Circle members. Credit: Will Young