Vancouver, BC — The University of British Columbia (UBC) School of Music invites community members to a landmark celebration marking the 100th anniversary of the Old Auditorium, one of UBC’s most iconic cultural spaces.
The Old Auditorium has been a special place for students, alumni and members of the community. The “Old Aud” has, over the past 100 years, hosted artists and politicians such as Eleanor Roosevelt, Paul Robson, Dylan Thomas, and UBC alumni such as Judith Forst and Ben Heppner. It has served as a training ground for generations of musicians and performers, and as a valued social space for student activity and assembly. Read more about the Old Auditorium’s history, including being saved from demolition, and watch a special invitation from Nancy Hermiston at music.ubc.ca/old-auditorium-at-100/
The Old Auditorium is home to the UBC Opera Ensemble who is presenting celebrations throughout their 2025-2026 season. Coming up on October 14 and 15, we present two events highlighting a unique chapter in the university’s history through music, storytelling, and tribute.
“I hope that you will join us on this journey and help support the Old Auditorium going into the next 100 years, so talented students coming to UBC are able to fulfill their potential in this historic building,” says Nancy Hermiston, Director of UBC Opera
100th Anniversary Celebration
Tuesday, October 14, 2025 | 7:30 PM, Old Auditorium, UBC Vancouver Campus
Celebrate the first official opening day of the Old Auditorium with a joyful evening of music, memories, and community. Enjoy cake and refreshments while the UBC Opera Ensemble, joined by alumni, performs excerpts from productions spanning 1925 to 2025. Hear stories from performers, directors, conductors, and production staff who have shaped the legacy of this historic venue.
The True North Strong and Free
Wednesday, October 15, 2025 | 7:30 PM, Old Auditorium, UBC Vancouver Campus
This powerful evening honours the Great Trek and the legacy of UBC’s veteran students—from WWI soldiers to modern-day participants in the Veterans Transition Program. Through music, film, and storytelling, the UBC Opera Ensemble, UBC Historians, and veterans reflect on a century of service, resilience, and transformation.
Tickets range from $20–$35 per event| Bundle both events to save $10
UBC Opera celebrations continue into 2026, visit music.ubc.ca/events/OldAuditorium100 for full listing.
About the UBC School of Music
The UBC School of Music programs nurture collaborative, thoughtful, and innovative musicians by exploring a range of musical practices and ideas that are crucial in the interconnected global environment of the twenty-first century. We see studies in music as a lifelong process of discovery and creative expression. In everything we do we demonstrate music’s broader connections to culture, identities, social justice, health and the environment. To learn more about the UBC School of Music and its programs and events, visit music.ubc.ca.
Old Auditorium, 6344 Memorial Road, UBC | Tickets for UBC Opera events are available at www.ubcoperatickets.com or by telephone at 604.822.6725.
