Saskatoon StarPhoenix

A home for the SSO

- JENNIFER JACOBY-SMITH

The Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra was the very first tenant at TCU Place, performing Carmina Burana on the night Centennial Auditorium first opened.

Neil Reddekopp, president of the SSO, comments that building a concert hall like Sid Buckwold Theatre gave the SSO a place to perform. “Having a consistent home has been essential to help the SSO survive and thrive and as a result we are one of the longest running orchestras in Canada.”

SSO executive director Mark Turner also shared some of his favourite memories at TCU Place.

Carmina Burana opening night of Centennial Auditorium

Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess semi-staged concert in the 1980’s

SSO’s performanc­e with Anne Murray

A young James Ehnes play ing Korngold’s Concerto

David Kaplan conducting the SSO and SYO in celebra tion of his 90th birthday

Jan Lisiecki’s Beethoven performanc­e in 2016

As for the future, Red dekopp is hopeful in light o the facilities study that was just released, that a new or renovated facility will con tinue to meet the needs o the SSO. “I am pleased by the recently released study that recognizes the need to upgrade Sid Buckwold The atre. It has served us well but like all buildings requires occasional refurbishm­ent to remain viable. The SSO looks forward to provide input as to our priorities of what an upgraded facility would look like.”

 ?? SUPPLIED PHOTO ?? Since opening day, the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra has made its home at what then called Centennial Auditorium.
SUPPLIED PHOTO Since opening day, the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra has made its home at what then called Centennial Auditorium.

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