Conceived as the major project of the Federal Government as part of the Centennial celebrations, the National Arts Centre was opened to the public on June 2, 1969. Focusing on artistic excellence, diversity, and youth, the National Arts Centre has played an important role in the development of almost all Canadian artists.

Situated in the heart of the nation's capital across from Confederation Square and Parliament Hill, the Centre is among the largest performing arts complex in Canada. The only multidisciplinary, bilingual performing arts centre in North America, the NAC features one of the largest stages on the continent.

The National Arts Centre is home to the internationally acclaimed 50-member National Arts Centre Orchestra.

The Centre also plays host to the Canada Dance Festival. In addition, the NAC is also an active partner in numerous regional and local festivals.

The NAC raises approximately 50% of its revenues from its own sources through the sales of tickets, parking and food as well as performance hall rentals and the fundraising of the National Arts Centre Foundation. The balance of the revenues derives from the federal government to operate and maintain the Centre.

The NAC is one of the country's most active co-producers of English and French Theatre and dance. the NAC has worked with PPS Danse, The Banff Centre for the Arts, Ballet British Columbia, Théâtre du Nouveau-Monde, Théâtre du Rideau vert, Cercle Molière Manitoba Theatre Company, Neptune Theatre, and Citadel Theatre to name only but a few.

 
Mandate

The National Arts Centre Corporation was established by an Act of the Parliament of Canada in 1966. The National Arts Centre (NAC) opened its doors in 1969. The NAC's mandate is to play a leadership role in fostering artistic excellence in all of the performing arts disciplines. Specifically, it is charged with the following responsibilities:

• To operate and maintain the National Arts Centre;
• To develop the performing arts in the National Capital Region;
• To assist the Canada Council in the development of the performing arts elsewhere in Canada.

Mission

To develop and promote the performing arts by:

• Establishing the NAC as the pre-eminent showcase for the performing arts
• Acting as a catalyst for the performing arts nationally
• Nurturing and supporting artists and arts organizations in communities across the country

Annual Reports