The Manitoba Theatre Centre has been designated a National Historic Site.

The MTC, which spent its first 10 years in the Dominion Theatre, moved to its current location on Market Avenue in late 1970. The building was designed by local architect Allan Waisman.

The Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada, in making the determination to bestow the designation, said the building is an excellent example of small-scale Brutalist architecture in Canada and is an exceptional theatre building because it creates an intimate atmosphere…and encourages a strong relationship between audience and actor.

The board also recognized MTC as a model regional theatre that played an important role in popularizing the regional theatre movement in Canada.

"It is an amazing honour to have one of my favourite buildings receive this special designation," Waisman said in a news release issued by the MTC.

Former artistic director Eddie Gilbert, who was instrumental in the creation of the building, said "Some brave and thoughtful architectural ideas went into it, and if you look closely, you'll still find traces of my blood, sweat and tears mixed in with the cement."

A commemorative plaque will be unveiled in 2010. With the latest designation, there are now 55 national historic sites in Manitoba, including Lower Fort Garry, the Winnipeg Law Courts and Pantages Playhouse Theatre.