In 1911 Virden was Manitoba’s ninth largest centre. After being incorporated as a town in 1904, the existing local government offices were felt to be inadequate for a population of 1500. In May 1911, Virden’s town council decided to construct municipal and civic offices, a court room and a large opera house on a site adjacent to the existing fire hall on Wellington Street.

The Auditorium (as the complex came to be known) was designed by W.A. Elliott, an architect responsible for many designs in southwestern Manitoba including the Brandon Central Fire Hall and the Brandon Mental Hospital. The contractor for the Auditorium was W.T. Manser, Virden’s foremost builder at that time.

When it was erected in 1911-12, it was one of the last opera houses of its type to be built in Manitoba. With its outstanding acoustics and classical style, it has been recognized as one of the best concert halls of its size in Western Canada.

During the past 30 years the Aud Board has undertaken numerous projects with the aim of improving the theatre. The Aud Theatre seating will undergo a refurbishment this summer. It will allow for larger seats, while still maintaining the historic elements of theatre. The Virden Auditorium will continue to be the entertainment centre for future generations of Virden and area residents. Whether it is the Music and Arts Festival, a dramatic production, a musical or a school Christmas concert, young and old alike will have the opportunity to “trod the boards” or be an enthusiastic spectator in The Aud Theatre. Either way it will be a treat.

The Auditorium Theatre is a testament to those who fought to preserve it, a privilege to those who have the opportunity to perform in it, and a treasure to the people of Virden and all who attend performances in it.

The Costume Closet has been deemed a one-of-a-kind collection—like no other in Canada! With over 30,000 items it’s no wonder! Housed within its 4,000 square foot building are pieces of Manitoba and Canada’s history. Some examples are a cape that was bought in the Eatons store in Montreal before one was built in Winnipeg, a man’s black wool bathing suit that was bought in England before 1910, and authentic military uniforms worn in WW2. Costumes from this collection have been used in several movie productions.

Tours are available upon request, and the opportunity to view this collection is one not to be missed! The Costume Closet is open Mondays and Thursdays from 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm.

Along the Trans-Canada Highway at Elkhorn is a collection of rare, antique automobiles, vintage agricultural equipment and quirky memorabilia so unique that you’ll cease second-guessing the sanity of your decision to drive across the Prairies in the heat of the summer to check it out.

A red 1930 American Austin miniature car greets you in the lobby along with a taxidermy two-headed calf, and vintage photos of local curling and baseball teams, 4-H clubs and threshing bees.

Through a second set of doors is where the automotive-history experience begins: An exotic collection of 80 vehicles awaits, including a 1902 Holsman, a 1909 Hupmobile, and one of the largest collections of original McLaughlin Motor Cars in Canada. You’ll also find a horse- drawn hearse on skis for the winter, a 1955 Packard, and plenty more.