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.

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. 

2. The Grand Theatre 

Located in a stunning heritage building located in the heart of downtown Kingston, Kingston Grand Theatre presents hundreds of performances every year representing all areas of the arts from theatre and dance, live music and comedy, cirque performances, and more. The Grand OnStage Season is a curated selection of performances offered each year from Fall to Spring – this entertainment season represents the finest in Canadian and worldwide talent. This year Grand OnStage is celebrating its 15th anniversary and we’ve launched our largest season yet, welcoming more than 50 diverse and enthralling performances from September to May.

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. 

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. 

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. 

7. Belleville Theatre Guild 

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. The 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! 

9. Upper Canada Playhouse 

It’s all about welcoming back the community and top-notch talent to this intimate heritage venue. In fact, it’s the enchanting combination of it all, bolstered by eager audiences and quality shows, that has kept breathing life into this theatre for almost four decades.

10. 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.