National Arts Centre construction leads to programming changes

With a$110 million faceliftunderway, buzzing saws and pounding hammers have replaced thesounds of orchestra rehearsals at the National Arts Centre.

Until the construction is finishedin time for Canada's 150th birthday in 2017,plenty of adjustments will be madeto tryto keep audiences and performers happy.

• NACO unveils big names in classical music for shortened season

• National Arts Centre officially breaks ground for major renovations

"The main issues have been around scheduling rehearsals, actually," said National Arts Centre Orchestramusic director Alexander Shelley."There are times during the day when we would normally berehearsing, but we can't because of the sound of the work."

NACO musicians have had to adjust their schedules to rehearse on weekends and evenings, according to Shelley.

"We want this to finish on time and it will finish on time. There's been some impact on programming, but we've managed to mitigate for it."

Changes to scheduling and locations

• During daytime hours, theNAC boxoffice has been relocated across the street to58 Elgin St.
• NACO's holiday programming will be suspended for the 2016-17 season, and that includesthe perennial seasonalfavourite Handel's Messiah. But not to worry, you little sugar plums TheNutcracker is returning.
• Student matinesforplays at the NAC theatre and studio are cancelled.
• Children's programs normallyheld in the cushioned Panorama Roomwill move to the lobby.
• Some musical afternoon programs for students will be moved to CentrepointeTheatre.
• Fourth Stage the popular venue for local performances will be closed in May.
• Le Caf will no longer serve lunch, but will open for dinner.

In the end, improvements will include a new Elgin Street entrance, a light-filled glass atrium, improved performance spaces, public areas for events and education, and full mobility for people with disabilities. There are alsoplans in the works for a trendy coffee shop.