What is Arts Umbrella?
Arts Umbrella is a non-profit centre for arts education for young people. Since 1979, we have provided the highest quality visual and performing arts education to children and youth ages two to 19, regardless of their economic situation.

Arts Umbrella has grown from the dream of a few young, artistic parents to a highly respected model for children's arts organizations worldwide.

When is Arts Umbrella open?
Arts Umbrella's hours of operation vary throughout the year.

When in classes are in session from September through June, Arts Umbrella is open from 9 am to 9 pm Monday through Friday, 9 am to 6 pm on Saturday and 9 am to 5 pm on Sunday. Closed on holidays.

When classes are not in session and/or during spring and summer programs, Arts Umbrella is open Monday through Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. Closed on weekends and holidays.

When is Sarah McLachlan Music Outreach — An Arts Umbrella Project open?
When classes are in session from September through June, Sarah McLachlan Music Outreach — An Arts Umbrella Project is open from 3 pm to 7 pm Monday through Friday, closed Saturday, Sunday and holidays.

If it's snowing, are classes cancelled?
Arts Umbrella cancels classes when the Vancouver School Board closes schools. We also report closures to local television news programs, for inclusion on their lists of school closures.

Where is Arts Umbrella located?
We are on Granville Island. If you are driving onto the Island, please continue straight down Cartwright Street, past the Kids' Market, just past the False Creek Community Centre; you'll find us at 1286 Cartwright Street. (If you come to the Granville Island Hotel, you've gone a little too far.)

What if my child's dance instructor initiates a class change?
Should a dance faculty member initiate a class change, it will first be approved by the Artistic Director. At that point, the transfer will be made, with no administrative fee.

My child is 4 in March, so what age category should I enrol him in for class starting in January, 2 to 3 or 4 to 5?
In order to ensure your child has the best possible experience, we ask that you enrol him in the age category that will apply for him at the beginning of the session — that is, you should enrol him in the class for 2 to 3-year-olds.

When was Arts Umbrella founded?
Arts Umbrella began in 1979 operating in rented space in community centres and schools in the Vancouver area, with 45 children attending.

How long has Arts Umbrella been on Granville Island?
As a not-for-profit organization, Arts Umbrella acquired a lease at a reduced rent in 1982 for a 10,000 square foot building owned by the federal government. The building was renovated with funds raised from all levels of government, foundations, corporations and individuals. In 1989, funds were raised to build an additional 5,000 square feet, which was completed in 1990. To meet growth and demand, funds were again raised in 1998 to expand the facility by another much-needed 7,000 square feet.

How is the organization funded?
Arts Umbrella has been a registered charity (No. 11885 RR0001) since 1979. In 2006/07, tuition fees accounted for only 44% of our operating budget. Government funding covered less than 5% of the annual budget. The remainder was raised through special events and donations from foundations, community organizations, corporations and individuals.

How much are fees?
Depending on the number of hours and number of classes per week, fees are between $94 and $315.

How do your classes compare to those at other centres?
Arts Umbrella is Canada's pre-eminent arts institute for young people, ages 2 to 19. Our classes are taught by professional artists and highly-trained arts educators. Students have an opportunity to use high quality art materials. Class sizes are small to ensure the maximum contact between instructor and students. With a focus on arts education, we strive to provide students with continuity and progression of skill development.

Will my donation to Arts Umbrella be publicized?
If you wish, yes. Arts Umbrella recognizes donors in a variety of ways; please contact our Development Department for more information.

What is your total operating budget?
For 2006/07, it is over $4 million.