The Manitoba Chamber Orchestra’s 24 March concert, in collaboration with Cluster Festival, postponed until further notice
We hope it goes without saying that the health and safety of the MCO’s audience, musicians, volunteers, and staff are of the utmost importance to us. We’re also mindful of the responsibility that cultural event presenters have to society at large, and are committed to following Manitoba health authorities’ guidelines on how to address the unfolding impact of coronavirus (COVID-19) in Manitoba.
So, in the best interests of all, on 24 March we will no longer be presenting our MCO-Cluster Golden Thread concert as scheduled. This decision accords with the Manitoba government’s recommendations, issued in its 13 March bulletin, to cancel or postpone events with more than 250 attendees. The MCO is exploring the possibility of presenting our 24 March concert’s program at a future date.
After March, the MCO has three more concerts scheduled in our 19-20 season. For now, they remain scheduled. We continue to closely monitor guidelines set by local health authorities, Public Health Canada, and the World Health Organization. We will take appropriate measures relating to our remaining 19-20 concerts accordingly. The MCO appreciates your patience as we deal with this unprecedented situation.
If you already have tickets for this concert
Both subscribers and casual ticket holders with tickets to the 24 March concert may exchange their tickets for a future concert, if that is their preference. Subscribers are always welcome to exchange tickets without charge, and until further notice, the MCO will waive the standard fee associated with casual ticket exchanges.
Patrons may also receive a charitable tax receipt by donating their tickets to the MCO. Gestures of this sort are greatly appreciated at a time of considerable financial uncertainty for artists and presenters. Please call the MCO at 204-783-7377 regarding ticket exchanges and donations.
Social solidarity and the arts
Health authorities globally tell us it’s the time for social distancing (for best practices, see, for instance, Public Health Canada’s guidelines). Undeniably, it’s also the time for cooperation, communication, and concern for community welfare. As a nonprofit music presenter and educator, the MCO’s commitment to social well-being is at the heart of our mandate, and this is no less true in extraordinary circumstances such as those in which Canada and the world now find themselves.