While not officially launching until the spring, an innovative new arts facility at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) is now open and available for community groups to create, innovate and enjoy.
The Creative School at TMU has launched Chrysalis, an innovation hub set to boost Toronto's creative sector.
Chrysalis will foster "multidisciplinary research, innovation and collaborative productions that push the boundaries of performances and creative experiences," the university said in a release.
Chrysalis is located in the historic venue formerly known as Ryerson Theatre.
“Chrysalis is both a physical hub and a mindset for innovation in performance and creative experiences," said Charles Falzon, dean of The Creative School.
"It connects the creative energies of the various disciplines at The Creative School with Toronto's broader creative community. The future is creative, and this new hub gives the city a fresh heartbeat to nurture that creativity.”
Chrysalis can help fill a gap as Toronto faces closures of venues such as Hot Docs and Phoenix Concert Theatre, TMU said.
The hub offers subsidized residencies and partnerships, welcoming artists and creators to experiment and create works that engage new audiences.
According to Owais Lightwala, director of Chrysalis, the hub "brings the industry into the academy and the academy into the industry".
The hub provide students with networking, mentorship and hands-on learning experiences alongside industry professionals, Lightwala said.
Faculty members also benefit from the setup, as they're able to use the space for productions and creative projects.
The hub has already hosted a residency by award-winning dance artist Shannon Litzenberger and collaborations with groups like Fall for Dance North and 1S1 Theatre.
Since its soft launch in the spring, Chrysalis has attracted 1,300 public attendees and collaborated with 100 artists, providing work opportunities for 70 students, the university said.
The hub is in the middle of a capital campaign aimed at programming and technical upgrades, which will enhance its facilities and provide resources for creative projects involving dance, music, theatre, and e-sports with an emphasis on technology and innovation.
The initial phase has already resulted in over $300,000 of community support, TMU said.
