The Aud Theatre

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.