Photo courtesy RJF Productions
Stella helps a visitor while an Esplanade volunteer greets others into the galleries.
We’re lucky to work in a building that brings together so many different visitors. People who love art, culture, music, history and some who love to explore. People come from near and far to see what lies behind the big glass doors and we’re the fortunate ones that have the pleasure of greeting them and getting a chance to learn a little bit about their story.
Welcome to the world of the Esplanade Arts and Heritage Centre Guest Services. We’re located on the main floor in the back corner by the Archives and galleries entrance.
One of the best feelings in the world is waking up each day and knowing you have a fun and interesting job to go to. Working in Guest Services, we are the face of the organization. It is one of us that will likely be the first to say hello, welcome you to our building and ask how we can help. The majority of people passing through are here to purchase or pick up tickets to an upcoming performance, visit our galleries or the Archives, attend a meeting or an art class or simply enjoy our space. Every once in a while we have someone come in for no reason at all! They might have been walking down the street, were drawn in by the beauty of the architecture and came in to see what it’s all about.
We’ve met people from all over the world from behind our counter and one of our favourite things is hearing everyone’s story about what brings them to Medicine Hat. Daytripper’s from Calgary, a couple passing through from Chicago on their way to Stampede and so many people visiting from every corner of the world. All their stories are different and we’re so happy they chose to spend some of their precious vacation time with us.
Another unique and interesting part of our job is helping people on their way. Our staff is not only knowledgeable in all areas of our building, but they stay up to date with what’s going on around the city. We love to offer of recommendations and suggestions of one of the local gems Medicine Hat has to offer. Visitors might be interested in touring Medalta, go to one of our great local breweries, check out the tourism centre, or find a great place to eat or grab a coffee downtown.
Do you remember your initial thoughts when you walked through the front doors of the Esplanade for the first time? Maybe it was back in 2005 when we first opened or maybe it was within the past year. No matter what their reason for visiting, people always leave the same way-happy, smiling and full of compliments. As for us, we are left feeling proud, humbled and satisfied, for a job well done. If you find yourself downtown, make sure to stop in and visit the Esplanade’s Guest Services desk, we’ll be happy to help!
Krista Wilde is guest services supervisor at the Esplanade.
