Toronto, ON — June 17th, 2025 – Harbourfront Centre celebrated two meaningful campus dedications this week, honouring extraordinary philanthropic leadership and a shared commitment to arts, culture, and public space.
In recognition of Dr. James D. Fleck’s longstanding support of Harbourfront Centre, its performance space has been officially renamed The Fleck at Harbourfront Centre Theatre.
“One of the great joys for me is seeing The Fleck Theatre now situated beside The Power Plant, two institutions I’ve had the privilege of helping to shape,” said Dr. James D. Fleck. “To know that both continue to champion bold artistic expression and support the next generation of creators is deeply meaningful.”
This new dedication carries forward the spirit of the original Fleck Dance Theatre, which recently closed after more than 40 years, with a renewed commitment to providing a vibrant space for movement, performance, and creative expression.
Harbourfront Centre also unveiled Community Square, a public space that will bring Torontonians and visitors together through celebration and connection. It was in part made possible by a generous gift from Mahendra (Mahen) Thacker and Edda Caglayan, in memory of Mahendra’s mother, Narmada Thacker.
“My mother taught me at a very young age, ‘Always help others in any way you can,’” said Mahendra Thacker. “It’s a privilege to honour her memory by supporting a space that welcomes everyone and reflects the diversity and spirit of this city.”
Together, these gifts honour the legacy of Harbourfront Centre while helping shape its future as a space for art, dance, learning, culture and community.
“Every cultural institution has its champions, those rare individuals whose belief in the power of the arts leaves a lasting imprint,” said Cathy Loblaw, CEO of Harbourfront Centre. “These dedications are powerful reminders that Harbourfront Centre’s evolution is shaped not just by institutions, but by people whose generosity and vision help build a more creative, and inspired future.”
For more information about Harbourfront Centre’s summer season, including upcoming festivals, performances, culinary experiences and family-friendly events, please visit www.harbourfrontcentre.com.
About Harbourfront
Harbourfront Centre is Toronto’s waterfront community campus for arts, culture, learning and recreation. Spanning a 10-acre campus at the heart of Toronto’s central waterfront, it is a registered, charitable not-for-profit cultural organization that offers year-round programs and events accessible to all audiences. The organization champions established and emerging Canadian artists across varied disciplines, and serves as a recreational hub for more than 6.3 million annual visitors. Whether hailing from across the street or around the globe, Harbourfront Centre offers memorable and meaningful experiences for all who visit. www.harbourfrontcentre.com
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