Drake has joined forces with Live Nation Canada to launch a entertainment venue in Toronto. According to multiple reports, the two powerhouses are the masterminds behind History, a “versatile” arena that holds a maximum of 2, 500 people — an “intimate” setting that the 6 God is familiar with.
“Some of my most memorable shows were playing smaller rooms like History,” Drake said in a statement. “I wanted to take those memories and what I learned to create an incredible experience for both the artists and the fans.”
“History will offer guests up-close experiences with their favorite artists that are unrivaled in Toronto,” added Riley O’Connor, the chairman of Live Nation Canada.
“We take pride in and expect History to become an important part of the community.”
After over four years of development, construction for the live music venue will finally be complete this summer. It is set to open later this year at 1663 Queen Street East, the heart of the Beaches neighborhood, and will initially host 200 shows and events per year. With its location on a main street and in a “mixed-use neighborhood” that is accessible by public transit, History is expected to be “an anchor of the community,” one that will not only deliver music and culture to its visitors but will also provide “numerous employment opportunities” to residents.
“We saw an opportunity to bring Toronto a great new venue, and we have so much gratitude and respect for Drake teaming up with us to bring it to life in the best way possible,” said Michael Rapino, Live Nation Entertainment’s president and CEO.
Mary-Margaret McMahon, a councilor in Toronto, noted the venue is also great for artists. “Finally some year round fun in the east end!” she previously told CNBC. “Good for our musicians. Good for our economy. Good for our residents.”
No official date has been set for History’s grand opening.