William Balfour of Oak View Group and Oshawa artist Dani Crosby with her poster celebrating 20 years of performances at the Tribute Centre in downtown Oshawa
The Tribute Communities Centre is celebrating two decades in downtown Oshawa with a unique poster that highlights the people, performances, and experiences that have defined the venue since it first opened as the General Motors Centre in 2006.
This ‘Where’s Waldo’-themed artwork, crafted by talented local artist Dani Crosby, will pay tribute to twenty years of “unforgettable concerts, thrilling sporting events, family entertainment and behind-the-scenes memories” at this arena. It’s home to the Oshawa Generals, Oshawa Fire Wolves, and thousands of concerts across various music genres featuring artists from Elton John and Blue Rodeo to Kiss and Selena Gomez – plus exhibitions and shows galore.
Oak View Group, which manages the Tribute Communities Centre, will reveal the colorful and intricately designed poster on November 3. The piece features around 137 illustrated figures in Crosby’s playful style, capturing two decades’ worth of entertainment through a lively mix of familiar faces, memorable moments, and hidden details.
In honor of this milestone anniversary, a limited number of free 12” x 18” commemorative posters will be available at the Tribute Communities Centre Ticket Office starting Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at 10 a. m. Posters will be given out on a first-come-first-served basis while supplies last. There’s a limit of one poster per person.
“Over the past 20 years, the Tribute Communities Centre has become much more than just a venue for concerts or sports events. It’s where people celebrate milestones, share unforgettable experiences and create lasting memories,” said Tribute Centre General Manager Andrew Nash. “This artwork wonderfully reflects the people, events and moments that have shaped our history while providing a meaningful way to commemorate this milestone with our community.”
The project initially aimed for at least 70 visual elements but evolved into one of Crosby’s most detailed illustrations ever created. It brings together an impressive collection of performers and athletes along with many memorable moments and subtle references.
The poster showcases notable performances by major musical acts alongside sporting events and family-oriented shows that highlight how diverse experiences have brought audiences together right in downtown Oshawa. Nash emphasized this aspect.
Tribute Communities Centre
Apart from featuring recognizable performers and events, the illustration also tells smaller stories that make up the venue’s unique history. Hidden throughout are nods to special occurrences like a marriage proposal during an Arkells concert or a sound technician working on ice skates during an Our Lady Peace show-plus acknowledgments for employees who’ve helped bring these events to life over time.
“I didn’t want this poster to be something fans glanced at once then forgot about. I wanted them to explore it further each time they looked,” explained William Balfour from Oak View Group. “With two decades’ worth of concerts and entertainment captured here we aimed for some organized chaos.”
“We also encouraged our team members to share their favorite memories or inside jokes so that this artwork carries meaning beyond just performers or events themselves. I hope fans spot something special they shared with friends or family or learn something new about our venue.”
Working with an artist based in Oshawa was essential for this project since it reflects not only ties to local community but also celebrates its creative talent. Crosby’s distinctive style made her perfect for this task while allowing her space to explore all those experiences shaping its history.
“Creating this project felt like getting front-row seats for twenty years’ worth of entertainment,” said Crosby excitedly. “It’s such a big story made up from many small stories-so I was thrilled about being involved! My hope is everyone feels connected through these depicted experiences-the people-and remembers moments resonating personally within them.”
This project holds personal significance too; Crosby attended many events there alongside her son over time! Amongst countless hidden details sprinkled throughout? She included herself along with him-a first-time personal touch she added into any commissioned work before now!
“I want him looking back at this piece later unlocking those cherished childhood memories,” she expressed warmly.
Crosby often explores themes surrounding storytelling community relationships between place & individuals through whimsical art styles combining expressive linework vivid colors intricate detailing humorously surreal aspects as well!
Her artistic journey spans studio pieces public displays printed illustrations merchandise collaborations reaching clients such as Brew Wizards Board Game Café Little Beasts Brewery Durham Region Transit Living Room Community Art Studio City Of Oshawa commissioning multi-storey mural named ‘Turning The Wheel’ painted onto walls Mc Millan Parkade!
As we celebrate twenty years here together-the illustration stands testament not only towards performers athletes gracing us-but equally honoring devoted fans dedicated employees fellow residents helping shape its ongoing narrative!
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