Facility

Facility

Seating Plan
Stage
Acoustics
Loading Access
Technical Infromation

Overview

Part of the University Centre Farquhar Auditorium's attraction is due to its unique architectural design. Built as part of the eight million dollar University Centre complex designed by the Wade Williams Partnership of Victoria, the Auditorium is the first "surround" hall built in Canada. The prime objectives of the facility's design were to provide good acoustics and sightlines from all seats. These objectives were successfully met, evidenced by the Auditorium's national reputation as an acoustic venue. The architectural design is enhanced by the interior's stunning wood lined stage and creative lighting. The beautiful Clearihue organ adds majesty to the environment and has become a tourist attraction in its own right.

History

Hugh Ernest Farquhar (1910-1984) was educated at the Victoria Provincial Normal School, the University of British Columbia and the University of Alberta. He taught in elementary and secondary schools, then at Victoria Normal School and Victoria College. In 1963, Dr. Farquhar became a professor in the Faculty of Education at the new University of Victoria.

After an early retirement he returned in 1971 as Dean of Education. In 1972 he accepted the Presidency. One of his greatest contributions was the planning and development of the University Centre and Auditorium, which he envisioned as the hub of the University's student, administrative and cultural life.

The Auditorium's doors first opened to the strains of Beethoven's 9th Symphony, performed by the University of Victoria School of Music Orchestra and Chorus, on September 28, 1978. Since that acclaimed performance, the Auditorium's stage has been graced by numerous classical and contemporary artists, all attracted by its reputation as an intimate, versatile, and acoustically pure hall.

Successful performances by artists such as Oscar Peterson, Yehudi Menuhin, Spirit of the West and Ladysmith Black Mambazo have proven to be unique and pleasurable experiences for both audiences and performers.