For more than 45 years, the Steinbach Arts Council has been at the heart of creativity and community in southeastern Manitoba, and on Friday, May 2, that legacy was celebrated in style.
The Council’s 45th Anniversary Gala brought together supporters, artists, and community leaders at a sold-out event in Bentwood Hall, marking more than four decades of arts, culture, and connection in the region.
“Ticket sales went great this year,” said David Klassen, Executive Director of the Steinbach Arts Council (SAC).
“We had a great time reaching out to folks in the community, and a lot of people wanted to come this year. So, we sold out several weeks ago. That lets us focus on planning a party, not stressing about filling the room.”
And a party it was, complete with food, drinks, performances, and heartfelt moments that celebrated SAC’s journey since 1979. From honouring one of the founding members, Norma Barkman, to highlighting current students and future talent, the night focused on the past, present, and future of the arts in Steinbach.
“We’re really aiming to celebrate the whole story,” Klassen said. “The impact we’ve had in this region, the kids we reach, the families we engage with, the number of participants is impressive, but the stories behind them are even more powerful.”
One of Klassen’s personal highlights was seeing a specially created banner with the names of all the current students on it.
“It was exciting to celebrate those who are just starting their journey. We wanted the audience to feel like, yes, the future is bright, if we open the door for them.”
The event wasn’t just about a celebration. As a key fundraiser, the gala had a goal of raising $65,000, a number Klassen believes they came close to hitting.
“We still have to do the final count, but it looks like we probably hit our targets,” he said. “We had generous sponsors and guests who knew their money was going to a good cause.”
That cause includes free after-school arts programs, seniors’ activities, and cultural events, all kept affordable through community support.
“Every single thing we do is subsidized,” Klassen explained. “This event helps us close the gap at the end of the year. Sustainability is the goal.”
A standout addition this year was a special piece of memorabilia: a sterling silver pendant, designed in collaboration with GNM Fine Jewellers in Steinbach, inspired by a Picasso sketch and created to symbolize youth, creativity, and the future of the arts. It’s available for purchase at the Arts Centre.
“It’s a little piece of history,” Klassen said. “And a reminder that the arts are about legacy, about investing in the future of this community.”
Local businesses also showed strong support, purchasing tables and sponsoring the event at higher levels than in past years.
“People see where we’re going and they want to be part of that success,” said Klassen. “It’s encouraging and humbling. This community is incredibly generous.”
As for how SAC stacks up nationally? Klassen noted that new data shows the organization is in the top 10% of arts councils across Canada in terms of size, an impressive feat for a community of Steinbach’s size.
“But it’s not about being the biggest,” Klassen emphasized. “It’s about staying true to our mission: giving people quality of life through the arts and making sure nobody is left behind.”
In closing, Klassen offered a heartfelt thank you to all who support the Arts Centre, whether through donations, attendance, volunteering, or just showing up.
“There is no feeling quite like the support that comes when someone else believes in what you believe in,” he said. “We are building a vibrant, healthy place for people to grow, and we couldn’t do it without our community.”
*All photos in the gallery were provided by the Steinbach Arts Council.