A 100-year-old theatre in Ontario is getting a complete makeover

A cherished theatre in Ontario is in for a massive upgrade.

The Royal George Theatre — known today as the Shaw Festival Theatre — is a century-old venue just off the water in the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake.

It was recently announced that the historic site is receiving a $35 million allowance to upgrade its facilities over a three-year period, which will generate a full rebuild of the facility, which will incorporate larger shows, acts, and festivals.

“The Shaw Festival is a cultural icon for Ontario and for Canada, and is just one of the many great reasons to visit Niagara-on-the-Lake and the broader Niagara Region throughout the year,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming in a statement.

The Shaw Festival runs from April to December ever year and attracts 325,000 visitors to the region annually.

However, as a byproduct of this incoming facelift, the Royal George Theatre will shut its doors by the end of 2025, signalling the conclusion of its 100-year run.

According to provincial tourism officials, the new venue will take roughly three to four years to complete.

When finished, the new building’s design will echo the original while offering modern amenities, such as more space, improved accessibility standards, and new lounge areas.

Officials behind the Shaw Festival have relayed that this new and improved location will also expand outreach programs and seminars offered by the festival.

“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,” said Ian Joseph, Chair of the Shaw Festival Board of Directors in an official statement.

For more information on the Royal George Theatre’s reconstruction, visit the Shaw Festival’s official website.