54•40
54•40 have certainly left their mark on the Canadian cultural landscape. As of 2021 the band enters their 40th year of performing and recording. he band has an unbelievable catalogue of hit songs. Lead by chief songwriter Neil Osborne, 54•40 have carved out a legacy of gold and platinum albums and an outstanding reputation for their live performances that carries through to this day. 40 years, thousands of performances. The secret to 54•40’s longevity is their ability to redefine and reinvent themselves. To experience 54•40 in concert is to experience how their songs have touched and continue to touch people’s lives. From people who have followed the band from their humble beginnings in east Vancouver to new young fans that have discovered the truly original band that is 54•40, a 54•40 concert is an extraordinary affair that bridges the gaps between generations through a shared love of music.54•40 is currently preparing for their 2022 release entitled Embassy Supreme which recorded remotely during the Covid pandemic, celebrates the common history they share as band members.
ABOUT THE VENUE
The Drill Hall
The Drill Hall at Base31 is a big stage, big sound performance space in a remarkable historic setting. This expansive and striking venue features a soaring hangar-like ceiling, exceptional state-of-the-art sound and lighting, with the most celebrated, chart-top musicians in Canada gracing its stage. The Drill Hall has a capacity of up to 1000 people, though individual show capacities may vary. Both reserved seating and general admission standing ticket options are on offer in this immersive venue, with lots of room to get up and dance. Both pre-show and during the performance, audiences can expect to be welcomed to the Drill Hall’s large, outdoor, licensed patio where local food and drink vendors share their culinary specialties surrounded by picnic table seating.
The Drill Hall is a magnificent 22,000 sq ft building built in 1940. It has a steel structure and a historic cedar shake exterior. The building was used by the RAF, RCAF, RCSA (AA) and the First Battalion of the Canadian Guards as both a drill hall and a gymnasium. Drills were practiced in both the drill hall and the patch of land adjacent to the hall – the parade square. During the 1950’s and 1960’s, the military opened the gymnasium doors on Thursday nights to the local community. It is said that there were often competitions against community teams and the military teams.
