The city has officially taken over responsibility for operation of The ACT Arts Centre in Maple Ridge, and according to the mayor the transition is going smoothly.
Since the city first announced the transition in September 2025, staff worked with the previous operator – the Maple Ridge Pitt Meadows Arts Council (Arts On) – as well as ACT staff, contractors, artists, and community groups to ensure continuity of operations ahea of the Jan. 1 take over.
Consequently, Mayor Dan Ruimy explained, the city is currently rolling out a series of new programs, shows, and events for the coming year.
“We are proud to have achieved a smooth and successful transition,” Ruimy said.
“Our objective throughout this process has been to strengthen arts and culture programming, while ensuring it is accessible to everyone. I invite residents of all ages and backgrounds to come through the doors of The ACT Arts Centre in 2026 – whether to take a class, attend a performance, tour the gallery, or simply experience this vibrant creative space. The ACT is a place for the whole community, and we look forward to welcoming people in.”
All previously scheduled “ACT Presents” shows, for example, have been honoured, with 13 performances presented across 18 days.
And, the city continues to work with local organizations and community groups to expand access to the venue.
From January to June 2026, 25 groups have booked more than 100 days at The ACT for performances, dance showcases, and exhibitions.
But he also noted that from a programming perspective, the city is expanding beyond just The ACT Arts Centre to include offerings at the Albion Community Centre.
Further diversification will include the introduction of recreational services at The ACT, such as candlelight yoga, group fitness, and family-focused programming to engage new audiences.
As well, The ACT Gallery will reopen on Saturday, Jan. 24, with “Reappraisal,” a solo exhibition by Katherine Duclos, running Jan. 25 to March 21, followed by exhibitions featuring ceramic artists and School District 42 students.
Plans are also underway to reopen The ACT gift shop in the second quarter of 2026, highlighting work by local artists and Maple Ridge–themed merchandise.
And upcoming community events at The ACT will include free Family Day activities in February and a special mayor and council welcome event featuring interactive performances and backstage tours. Details will be announced soon, Ruimy shared.
The public can continue to purchase tickets, register for programs, and book spaces at MapleRidge.ca/Arts, and can follow The ACT Arts Centre’s new dedicated Instagram account, @ArtsMapleRidge, to stay up to date on programming, artist stories, and behind-the-scenes content.
In response to inquiries from the community about transitioning The ACT, the City has provided an update – which includes background information about negotiations with the arts council, options council considered for management of The ACT, and related staff reports.
Planning is also underway for summer and fall programming, integration of The ACT into major city celebrations such as Canada Day and Celebrate the Night, and early development of the 2027 performance season.
Public engagement initiatives, including the “Behind the Curtain” series, will continue to highlight the people and processes that bring arts and culture to life in Maple Ridge.
The city had been contributing more $1 million in public funds to the operation of The ACT annually, noted Ruimy. With this transition, the city, he insisted, now has more direct influence over the management, maintenance, and programming of the centre “while remaining accountable to local taxpayers.”
For more information about the city’s arts and culture programming and The ACT, people can visit MapleRidge.ca/Arts or contact via email: PRC@MapleRidge.ca.