Safe walks will be provided and patrols will be increased around downtown performing arts venues during the 2026-27 season, Mayor Scott Gillingham announced Monday.
The safety measures are part of the new Performing Arts Wayfinder Program funded by the mayor’s office.
“Winnipeg’s performing arts organizations help bring our downtown to life,” Gillingham said in a news release.
Centennial Concert Hall (Ruth Bonneville / Free Press files)
“They bring people together, support our local economy, and help make Winnipeg a great place to live and visit. This partnership is a practical way to help people feel safe and supported when they’re coming to and from performances.”
The program is scheduled to begin in September and run through June 2027.
Safe walks and patrols will be provided by Downtown Community Safety Partnership for audience members, performers and staff attending performances and rehearsals by the Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre, Royal Winnipeg Ballet, Manitoba Opera and the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra.
Safe walks will be available before and after performances through the DCSP’s app or upon request from DCSP members, known as wayfinders, stationed outside the venues.
Patrols will extend to parking lots around the Centennial Concert Hall and Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre.
“Downtown is at its best when people feel welcome, connected, and confident exploring everything our city has to offer,” DCSP executive director Greg Burnett said in the news release.
Winnipeg Free Press | Newsletter
“Whether someone needs a courtesy walk, directions, assistance accessing services, or simply a friendly face, our DCSP wayfinders will be there to help make every visit to downtown a positive experience.”
When there are no scheduled performances or rehearsals, the DCSP wayfinders will patrol the surrounding downtown area.
Chris Fensom, co-chair of WSO Members’ Committee and principal trumpet of the WSO, welcomed the program.
“We believe that this program will increase the safety and security of our WSO musicians and staff, our cherished arts partners and our devoted audience members, without whom we could not do what we do here in this community,” Fensom said in the news release.
fpcity@freepress.mb.ca