American Express Canada expands commitment to Massey Hall restoration project

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TORONTO, Nov. 21, 2018 /CNW/ – American Express Canada is pleased to announce that the American Express Foundation is pledging $1 Million toward the restoration of historic Massey Hall. This is the Foundation’s second major gift to the initiative to revitalize the venue, bringing its total contribution to $2.25 Million USD.

American Express’ new commitment will support the removal and restoration of 100 original stained glass windows that have been hidden behind plywood since 1950. The windows were originally boarded up to protect the integrity of sound in the venue. Teams of local stained glass experts will work to restore the glass, preserving these once tucked away pieces of history for generations to come. Additionally, the funding will support the design and installation of special noise protecting shades that will cover the glass during performances.

“We know music and entertainment are essential to so many people’s daily lives. Backing Massey Hall means we are helping to provide our Cardmembers and music-lovers across the city with access to the beautifully restored iconic Massey Hall. It’s a natural fit for us because of our ongoing commitment to offering exclusive entertainment experiences for our Cardmembers,” says David Barnes, Vice President of Advertising and Communications at American Express Canada.

The American Express Foundation supports efforts to save and sustain historical places, like Massey Hall, so that more people are able to enjoy classic sites around the world. Since joining forces in 2015, the American Express Foundation has helped fund other aspects of the project including the demolition and retention of the brick from the original building and re-plastering the ceiling of the concert hall.

American Express has a long standing relationship with Massey Hall as a marketing partner through its popular Front Of The Line® program that provides Cardmembers with advanced and reserved ticket access to concerts and events.

The donation from the American Express Foundation is part of a global focus on supporting the restoration and preservation of buildings and sites of historic and cultural significance.

About American Express in Canada

American Express is a global services company, providing customers with access to products, insights and experiences that enrich lives and build business success. American Express was established in Canada in 1853 and offers a variety of consumer and business products. Learn more at americanexpress.ca and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

About Massey Hall

Massey Hall is one of Canada’s most revered cultural institutions and a designated National Historic Site. The iconic venue has hosted some of the greatest historical figures and contemporary artists including, Winston Churchill, Gordon Lightfoot, Helen Keller, Enrico Caruso, Neil Young, U2, Diana Krall, Oscar Peterson, Bob Dylan, Feist & Harry Styles. Built in 1894 by Hart Massey, Massey Hall was gifted to the citizens of Toronto and to this day, operates as a not for profit organization. Remaining true to Massey’s vision, the organization devotes much of its focus on community outreach & education as well as artist development programs. In order to logistically & successfully accommodate these initiatives as well as continuing to attract the world’s greatest performers, Massey Hall is currently in the midst of a Revitalization – a multiphase project to renew both the interior & exterior of the hall and the construction of a new south tower – to ensure that the lives of Canadians continue to be enriched through arts, employment, and cultural celebration for generations to come.