It took almost 40 years for West Vancouver to have its own performing arts centre. Local groups have long recognized the need, and on several occasions tried to build one. 

Perhaps it’s fitting that in a community where so many successful entrepreneurs make their home, our performing arts centre is very much the product of one person’s vision, passion and financial generosity. Mrs. Kay Meek made this building come alive. 

Born in England, Kay spent most of her life in West Vancouver. A long time supporter of Lower Mainland arts organizations, Kay had a goal to see a performing arts centre built in the community she loved.

In 1998, a trust was established and funded by Kay Meek with an initial donation of $1 million to search for a possible location. Things began to move ahead in 2000 when the West Vancouver School District proposed that the new arts centre be built beside West Vancouver Secondary School. In 2002, a Joint Use Agreement was signed between the West Vancouver School District and the Kay Meek Arts Society, which oversees the Centre’s operations. 

Backed by another significant contribution from Kay Meek, construction commenced. During this planning and building process, Kay often commented that the construction of the theatre was what kept her going. Kay Meek died November 6th, 2004 shortly after the Centre that now bears her name opened. She was 98.