A fire has consumed Igloolik’s Kipsigak Arena, a critical community hub in Nunavut that housed Artcirq’s Black Box, a renowned space for circus arts and youth programming. The blaze began around 2:30 a.m. on Wednesday, leaving the structure beyond saving and slated for demolition, according to Chief Administrative Officer George Qaunaq.
The fire’s cause remains unknown and continued to burn into Wednesday morning, spreading smoke across the community and prompting school and health center closures. Artcirq co-founder Guillaume Saladin, devastated by the loss, described the Black Box as a sanctuary filled with love, offering workshops, performances, and a safe space for youth.
Despite the destruction, Saladin is determined to rebuild, emphasizing that Artcirq’s spirit lies within its people. He called for collective support to help restore what was lost, underscoring the Black Box’s significance not just to Igloolik but to the global performing arts community.
Source: Swifteradio.com
