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| - The Rose is quickly becoming a favored destination for me - not just because it offers so many varied events, but the atmosphere and design of the building is fantastic.
This may be the most "un-arts centre" arts centre I've ever visited. Despite being set right smack dab in the centre of Brampton's downtown core, it's very easy to walk by this place and not notice it - if you're walking in, you have to pass through the square itself to get to it, or go into the underground parking garage (accessible off Theatre Lane Drive), which thankfully has complimentary parking during a number of galas and events.
I've been finding myself visiting here more frequently. Over the last year, I've attended two galas, the Lieutenant-Governor's Awards and a business networking event, and each time, I've found the experience to be classy and consistent.
My most recent journey here was for the William Osler Health Foundation's annual gala, which is now in its sixth year. I had the opportunity to try several of the food items during said gala and was very satisfied with the end result, though I found myself enjoying last year's spread (which included beef sliders, sushi and more served on trays) more.
This go-around, I had a small dish of white-cheddar macaroni, a couple of small striploin sandwiches, a couple of one-bite items (artichoke hearts with something else in them), and (from the VIP section) smoked salmon with mushy peas) and oysters. Not to mention Beavertails and a selection of intermission snacks including candied apples and in-house(?) popcorn.
This had to be one of the weirder setups for a gala I've seen. Despite having the VIP section on the second level of the theatre, the best food items were at ground level, and I routinely saw people descending back downstairs minutes after going up just so they could feast on the rest of the selection. Not only that, but in order to get a complimentary mixed drink (Caesar), you had to go to the very back of the silent auction, which means going through two rooms and navigating through a packed crowd to line up. The setup and food selection can be very hit-or-miss, so keep your expectations in check.
The service is quick and efficient. Not only is there a complimentary coat check, but the staff do a reasonably good job of clearing plates and trash during larger events like galas. You can also get wine in take-out cups to bring into the theatre, but I'm not sure if this is consistent with all events.
As far as the noise level goes, it really depends on where you sit and who's performing. The first time I came here in 2016 (for a performance by Colin James and Barenaked Ladies), the wall of sound was so loud that I felt my eardrums were going to burst, and I was sitting in the upper balcony. This time, the noise level was much more tolerable and I had no problems whatsoever, while sitting in roughly the same spot.
I will say that I've also had the unique perspective of being able to crash in the theatre's green room. Earlier this year, when I attended the Lieutenant-Governor's Awards (which were held by Walrus Magazine), I was given the opportunity to hang out in the back and meet the nominees. They have a stand featuring upcoming events that has actually been signed by several of the performers, including Howie Mandel and Great Big Sea. An interesting curiosity to view if you have the chance to visit in person.
Barring a few small caveats, I find myself greatly appreciating the work that's been done in the theatre, which has offered a consistent and enjoyable experience that is on par with the best venues in the region. I will likely be back at the Rose again - and it can't come soon enough.
Recommended.
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