100-year-old Ontario theatre set to close for major renovations

An iconic theatre that has been serving patrons since the First World War will be closing its doors at the end of the season.

But not for too long.

Today, the Ontario government announced plans to allocate $35 million to rebuild the Royal George Theatre, a long-standing venue in Niagara-on-the-Lake that has been, according to the Shaw Festival’s official website, a home for lectures and entertainment for soldiers, a vaudeville stage, a movie theatre and even the home of Canadian Mime Theatre.

The theatre, located on the main street of one of Ontario’s most popular tourist towns, was purchased by the Shaw in 1981 and has more than defied expectations for longevity. Originally constructed with clay “speed” tile to save money, the theatre that was expected to last about 25 years has been standing–with some renovations–for a century.

That said, the Shaw Festival recently announced that because of the structure’s clay foundation, it has “exceeded its usable life by decades” and must close at the end of the year (after the 2025 production of A Christmas Carol wraps up) to undergo a major rejuvenation that will future-proof the iconic local landmark. 

In a news release, the province said the $35 million in funding, spread out over three years, will bring a new, larger, modern theatre to Niagara-on-the-Lake and increase the attractiveness of the area to even more tourists. 

“The Royal George Theatre is one of Canada’s most dearly loved cultural assets. More than 100,000 people come through its doors each year to experience the stories, connections and memories that only live arts can create,” said Ian Joseph, Chair of the Shaw Festival board of directors, in a statement. 

“We are delighted that, with the support of the provincial government, we will now be able to rebuild this iconic jewel box theatre for the next generations of theatre makers and theatre lovers to work in and enjoy.”

The Ontario government said the reconstruction project is expected to create 550 new jobs, contribute $80 million in GDP and generate $29 million in government revenues during construction.

The province said that while the new theatre will be built to meet modern standards, it will “honour elements of the original building’s design.” Once complete, it will include a new accessible lobby and lounge areas for visitors, greater seating capacity and new rehearsal and workspaces. 

The new theatre is expected to include 20 per cent more seats.

The province said rebuilding the Royal George Theatre is an integral part of the Shaw Festival’s larger transformation project and is expected to be completed by Spring 2029. According to the province, the popular theatre festival attracts about 325,000 visitors per year and generates more than $250 million in economic activity annually. 

Niagara-on-the-Lake is also popular among locals and tourists for its wineries, breweries, restaurants, hotels, spas and shops. 

According to the Shaw Festival’s 2019 visitor data study, 50 per cent of festival attendees came from other parts of the province outside the Niagara region and 32 per cent came from outside Ontario.

“I am pleased to see this investment from the Government of Ontario in the Shaw Festival. The Shaw Festival is a cornerstone of Niagara-on-the-Lake’s character and a significant contributor to our tourism and economic success,” said NOTL Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa in a statement. 

“Rebuilding the Royal George Theatre will help sustain local jobs, attract visitors, and strengthen our local economy. This announcement reflects the ongoing advocacy of Town Council and Staff, and we are grateful for the province’s commitment to this significant project.”