Leadership gifts recognized

Confederation Centre of the Arts has announced two new named spaces—Clancey Hall and Lou MacEachern Atrium—as part of its Rejuvenation Project, recognizing significant leadership gifts to the Centre’s Shared Voices Campaign.

In recognition of a transformational leadership gift from longtime patrons Kevin and Karen Clancey, the Centre’s new rehearsal hall will be named Clancey Hall. This investment represents a major commitment to the future of the arts and culture sector on PEI. Clancey Hall will be a purpose-built space for creativity, education, mentorship, and artistic development, supporting artists at every stage of their journey.

The Clanceys’ deep connection to the Centre grew stronger through their daughters, Megan and Fiona. After seeing Anne of Green Gables—The Musical™ as toddlers, both girls developed a passion for the performing arts. They danced on the Sobey Family Theatre stage and later performed as Children of Avonlea, experiences that wove the Centre into the fabric of their family life. 

The Clanceys see their support of the Shared Voices Campaign as an investment in future generations, ensuring young people have access to spaces for innovation, learning, and creative expression. With the creation of Clancey Hall, that legacy will continue by bridging past and future, and inspiring artists and audiences for generations to come.

A second major gift recognized through the campaign will see the Centre’s central atrium named the Lou MacEachern Atrium, in honour of a leadership contribution from the late Lou MacEachern, together with staff of the Centre.

Raised in Hazel Grove, PEI, Mr. MacEachern had a successful career in Calgary as a respected business leader and generous philanthropist.

While he supported many causes across the country, Mr. MacEachern held a particular passion for the Confederation Centre. He saw it not only as a cultural institution but as a national monument that helped strengthen Canadian unity and reflect Canadian values and stories back to all who visited.

Mr. MacEachern believed in philanthropy’s power to bring people together. When making his leadership gift to the Shared Voices Campaign, he challenged the Centre’s staff to join his Power of One campaign and contribute at any level. Inspired by his example, staff contributions brought the combined impact of Lou’s gift and employee contributions to $1,163,000 in support of the Centre’s future.

Though he built his career in Alberta, PEI remained close to Mr. MacEachern’s heart. He served 17 years as a national board director and governor for the Centre, strengthening its national profile and broader connections.

“Our father had three great loves: Canada, the Island he came from, and the belief that the arts make communities whole,” says the MacEachern Family. “The Confederation Centre was the place where all three met. This gift was his way of honouring that—and we couldn’t be more proud of the legacy he’s left behind.”

The new Lou MacEachern Atrium, opening off Richmond Street (Victoria Row) in the former library space, will serve as the welcoming public heart of the revitalized Centre. 

The Shared Voices Campaign aims to strengthen the connection between Islanders and visitors through cultural experiences, where diverse stories are shared, artists are supported, and audiences are inspired.