If you enjoy the arts scene, there is no shortage of local theatres in South Eastern Ontario. Whether you enjoy comedy, musicals, dance or a mix of genres, you are bound to find a show that scratches your artistic itch.
Gananoque 1000 Islands
1. Thousand Islands Playhouse
Known as “Canada’s Dockside Theatre”, the Thousand Islands Playhouse operates two historic theatre venues right beside the St. Lawrence River in Gananoque. With over 44,000 tourists attending shows annually, it has become a nationally renowned theatre and holds one of the top five summer festivals in Ontario.
Kingston
2. The Grand Theatre
Known for being a hub of artistry and culture, The Grand Theatre is centrally located in the beautiful downtown of Kingston. Often referred to as “The Grand” this theatre serves as the main venue for all things artistic, including professional and amateur performances varying from ballet and modern dance, to theatre, musicals and comedy. With over 250 events held every year, you won’t have a problem finding the perfect performance for you.
Prince Edward County
3. Regent Theatre
Known for having the largest stage in South Eastern Ontario, the Regent Theatre is a historic centre for the arts located in Picton, Ontario. Over the years the theatre has gone through a number of upgrades and restorations, recently expanding its capacity of 446 seats. Its 1920’s style provides a unique atmosphere where you can enjoy performances, movies, concerts and events.
4. Festival Players
Prince Edward County’s pride and joy, Festival Players is The County’s best professional theatre company, and has been making beautiful art for over a decade. This theatre company truly uses the beauty and heritage of Prince Edward County to bring its shows to life, often using local sites to put on its show, including a 100 year old barn, an estate vineyard and a church-turned-theatre.
Brockville
5. Brockville Arts Centre
If your travelling through Brockville you will want to add a stop at the Brockville Arts Centre to your itinerary. Located in the heart of downtown Brockville, the Brockville Arts Centre is known nationally as one of the best medium sized historic theatres in Canada. Thousands of art-lovers make their way to Brockville for a chance to watch one of the many performances they offer year-round.
Cornwall and SDG Counties
6. Aultsville Theatre
Located at 2 St. Lawrence Drive on the St. Lawrence College campus, the Aultsville Theatre has been a hot spot for world class performances since 1976. With over 650 seats, you and your guests can experience any show or concert up-close and personal.
Bay of Quinte
7. Pinnacle St. Playhouse
Since 1951 the Belleville Theatres Guild has been putting on outstanding performances year after year. Utilizing local actors, writers, musicians and artists each season to provide a truly Canadian performance for theatre-goers.
8. Empire Theatre
If you’re in the mood for music, The Empire Theatre hosts musical performances by artist ranging from rock to country, blues and jazz!
Rideau Heritage Route
9. KYMTC (Kemptville Youth Musical Theatre Company)
The Kemptville Youth Musical Theatre Company (also known as KYMTC), is a volunteer-based musical theatre group that involves youth from around the community to participate in theatre.
Land O’ Lakes
10. Lennox Community Theatre
If you are looking for a more intimate experience, you have got to check out the Lennox Community Theatre located in Selby, Ontario. With only 80 seats, you can choose from a variety of performances including dramas, thrillers, musicals and more.
11. NFLT (North Frontenac Little Theatre Company)
Since 1979, the North Frontenac Little Theatre Company has produced over 65 shows, all the way from “Alice in Wonderland” to “The Sound of Music” to “Pinocchio”. This small roots theatre puts on big shows that are known to sell out regularly.
Learn more…
Located along the north shore of the St Lawrence River, the South Eastern Ontario region spans from Cornwall and SDG Counties to Ontario’s burgeoning wine and craft beer country known as Prince Edward County and the Bay of Quinte. Along the shores of these waterways, you’ll find fascinating history, quaint villages, inspiring art, live theatre and gastronomic delights. No matter how you choose to experience it, South Eastern Ontario offers some of the best places to visit in Ontario.