The arts are not only enjoyable and entertaining, but they can also have a positive impact on your mental health and well-being. Research shows that the arts can help you manage and express your emotions, develop healthy coping skills, boost your self-esteem and confidence, and foster your creativity and imagination.
The community of North Bay can be thankful, therefore, to have the Capitol Centre in its midst, to provide accessible and diverse arts programming to everyone in the area.
“The Capitol Centre is a non-profit entity which exists to benefit the community,” explained Capitol Centre Marketing Manager Kerri Morin. “While our big ticket shows get a lot of attention, we want to highlight our grassroots initiatives, the programming that is geared to the wider community. We are very proud of that.”
For example, the Capitol Centre offers a program called ‘Arts for All’, which provides complimentary tickets to not-for-profits and service groups, so that patrons who may not otherwise be able to access the arts can attend events at the centre.
Morin continued, “The art gallery in the centre, the WKP Kennedy Gallery, is a public gallery, so anyone can enjoy the exhibitions free of charge, and many of our exhibitions feature local artists.”
The Capitol Centre also hosts many free events throughout the year, including its Holiday Open House. “We also offer free family films throughout the year,” said Morin.
In addition, the centre offers a program called the ‘Next Generation Education Series’. This is a group of specially curated shows that is offered to schools and childcare organizations. “These shows tie into their curriculum while also offering an opportunity for a fun excursion to the Capitol Centre,” said Morin. She continued, “There is no ticket cost to attend one of our NGES shows.”
There are many studies showing that participating in or interacting with the arts is good for all ages, in many different ways. “The arts contributes to healthy brain development, including building language skills, capacity for self-expression, ability to pay attention and learn, and emotional regulation in children,” explained Morin. “The arts also offers older adults achieve a better quality of life and social connectedness.”
Research also shows the arts can bring people of diverse backgrounds together, strengthen community connections, and overall, enhance the mental health and wellbeing of people in communities. In short, there is no downside to having more arts and culture in your life.
Morin agrees. “We want everyone in North Bay to know, the Capitol Centre is an integral part of the city, and we have something to offer everyone in our community! We look forward to welcoming you here.”
For more information about the Capitol Centre, drop in to 150 Main Street East, North Bay, or visit the website here.
This article was sponsored by The Capitol Centre, a 2023 BayToday Reader Favourite.