Brockville Arts Centre

Enjoy a visit to Brockville Arts Centre, one of Canada’s most prominent mid-sized historic theatres. The facility features several performances from local, national and international talent, including live music, popular broadway show tunes, award-winning films, comedy, dance and ballet. Several local groups use the theatre for productions, including The Brockville Concert Association, Brockville Theatre Guild, The Brockville Operatic Society and Bread of Life Dance Theatre. 

Some notable past acts at Brockville Arts Centre include Harry Connick Jr., John McDermott, Great Big Sea and Michelle Wright. Visitors can enjoy musicals like Cats,The Rocky Horror Picture Show and Mama Mia!, plus ballet performances like The Nutcracker. Seating options include a vast orchestra level and a balcony. The theatre offers a VIP program where members receive exclusive perks like special offers, free beverages, guided tours and early access to tickets. 

Brockville Arts Centre is also one of the region’s prime art galleries, featuring exhibitions from local artists and those across Ontario and Canada.  

Located on King Street near the centre of Brockville, the Brockville Arts Centre is about halfway between Kingston to the south and Cornwall to the north via Highway 401 along the St. Lawrence River. 

We recommend visiting the Brockville Arts Centre’s website for up-to-date information and details about the facility. For more information about the theatre and other places of interest to explore nearby, keep scrolling to see what Destination Ontario recommends. 

More about Brockville Arts Centre

Built in 1858, the facility’s original intention was to serve as a town hall, marketplace and fire engine house for the city of Brockville. By 1880, the town hall had moved and allowed the building to function primarily as an opera house. Over the next century, however, it had its ups and downs. It endured several closings and reopenings and suffered from a fire. Eventually, in 2009, it received a $2 million renovation and now features one of the best sound systems and acoustics in the country. 

The centre offers event space for private functions, such as receptions, meetings, parties and fundraisers. Its main auditorium seats over 700 guests, and the lobby accommodates over 120. The facility also provides a board room, a fully licensed bar, sound and light production, catering, marketing services and accommodations. The entire facility is completely accessible and offers phonic in-ear devices for people with hearing disabilities. When visiting Brockville Arts Centre, you’ll enjoy air conditioning and plenty of free parking. 

You’ll find the centre along King Street in Brockville. Known as the “City of the 1000 Islands”, it’s set on the northern shore of the St. Lawrence River. Nearby are plenty of other popular attractions, like the Brockville Museum and the riverside Hardy Park. Near the city’s marina is the southern entrance ofthe 19th-century Brockville Railway Tunnel, an underground route originally used for wood-burning and steam trains. Today, it features a tourist walkway with music and LED light shows. 

Pedestrians and cyclists enjoy the Brock Trail, which wraps around the southern side of the city, passing by the Brockville Arts Centre before heading north towards Brock Street Park. It eventually connects to Bakers Park, where you’ll find a quiet nature preserve with a refreshing cascade called Ferguson Falls. 

When you feel hungry or need a rest, enjoy a stroll down historic King Street, lined with quaint brick buildings. You’ll find plenty of cafes, restaurants, shops and eateries to explore. Don’t forget to wander down some side streets to find hidden bookstores, antique shops and breweries. Near the city centre, head north toward the impressive Leeds and Grenville County Court House, a National Historic Site of Canada. 

Brockville Arts Centre is beloved throughout the entire Southeastern Ontario region. Come and experience an evening of dance, music, comedy, film or theatre and enjoy the historic vibe of Brockville’s celebrated downtown area. 

Last updated: February 8, 2024

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