Curtains raised on Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony, 2023 bankruptcy annulled
Posted Oct 30, 2024 10:40:34 AM.
Last Updated Oct 30, 2024 03:10:28 PM.
The curtains have been raised once again on the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony (KWS).
After filing for bankruptcy in Sept. 2023, KWS ceased all operations after 78 seasons, citing financial impacts due to the COVID-19 pandemic as a contributing factor, with the board of directors also resigning.
A new board was elected in June 2024.
On Wednesday, KWS announced that a proposal sent to creditors received unanimous support and was approved by the Superior Court of Ontario, annulling its 2023 bankruptcy.
KWS added that the move allows them to move forward with “restoring its long-standing position as a pillar in the arts and culture community of Waterloo Region.”
“The board is delighted to be working with the musicians of the KWS to continue an almost eight-decade legacy of bringing a diverse range of live concerts and outreach programs to audiences,” said Bill Poole, Chair of the KWS Board of Directors in a press release.
“We’re excited to define and realize a strategic and artistic vision for the future of the KWS moving forward, continuing the orchestra’s longstanding commitment of delivering exceptional live music experiences as a living part of our community.”
Speaking to 570 NewsRadio, Poole said KWS is in the position it is now because of those who had the most invested in the symphony.
“We would not be at this place today if it were not for the musicians. The musicians absolutely refused to let go. They would not let go! So, those of us who joined the board on June 6th, have really supported their activity.”
The 2024/25 concerts will be held at St. Matthews Lutheran Church in Kitchener.
This includes a Nov. 16 concert On Remembrance and Hope as well as KWS Holiday Celebration on Dec. 20 and 21.
The board and musicians associated with KWS are thanking the public for their overwhelming support over the past year.
