Rainbow Stage was built because of the 1950’s flood... It was once an old band stand that was washed away by the Red River in the 50’s flood, and if it hadn’t been for Tom Hodgson – Superintendent of Parks at that time, nothing would have happened to redevelop the site. Tom insisted that the band stand be reconstructed. As a result a number of people got involved with the rebuilding process. The public felt that the stage should become a performing theatre and when it was complete, the arch shaped beam at the front of the stage was noticed by a board member who claimed it looked like a Rainbow... giving Rainbow Stage its identity! The same arch shaped beam can be seen outside of the current theatre as a monument to its past.
The first performing act for Rainbow Stage was planned on short notice. The Kitsilano High School Boys Band was flying home from performing in England and had a layover in Winnipeg. Vic Pinchin had the pleasure of singing with director Arthur Delemont's daughter at the University of B.C. in the Gilbert and Sullivan Yeoman of the Guard. Vic spoke with the group and arranged for the Kitsilano High School Boys Band to play at the opening ceremonies, in 1954.
The first performing act for Rainbow Stage was planned on short notice. The Kitsilano High School Boys Band was flying home from performing in England and had a layover in Winnipeg. Vic Pinchin had the pleasure of singing with director Arthur Delemont's daughter at the University of B.C. in the Gilbert and Sullivan Yeoman of the Guard. Vic spoke with the group and arranged for the Kitsilano High School Boys Band to play at the opening ceremonies, in 1954.
As told by Vic Pinchin.
