Massey Music Hall

The success of Toronto's first music festival in 1886 inspired philanthropist Hart Almerrin Massey to build a "Commodious" auditorium. He hoped it would "cultivate and promote an interest in music education, temperance, industry, good citizenship, patriotism, philanthropy and religion..." Designed by Canadian architect Sidney Rose Badgley, it opened with a three day musical festival beginning on 14 June, 1894. The hall soon gained international renown for its superb acoustics. Many of the world's great musical artists, orators, dancers, lecturers, athletes and explorers have appeared on its stage. Massey Hall has also been used for political assemblies, protest rallies, religious conventions, boxing and wrestling matches and union meetings. Throughout its first century, Massey Hall has fostered the entertainment, education and cultural advancement of the people of Toronto.