Theatre, film and literature

Theatre, film and literature buffs will be thrilled with what’s on stage, on screen and on page in Ontario.

Enjoy new and entertaining playbills each year in Ontario with international film festivals, Broadway blockbusters, renowned theatre festivals and innovative local theatre. Many of the historic theatres are steeped in lore and history, making them as intriguing as the arts they house.

Meet some of your favourite authors and discover new ones at literary festivals, bookshops and notable events.

Articles and itineraries

Get ideas and inspiration for your next trip.

Retro diners and drive-ins in Ontario

Enjoy your next outing at Ontario’s drive-ins and pair it with home-style comfort food from classic diners.

Doors Open, Culture Days and behind-the-scenes tours

Explore rarely seen historic sites and cultural landmarks on exclusive behind-the-scenes tours and during Doors Open Ontario.

Francophone arts and culture

Learn about Francophone culture at exhibitions, festivals and historic sites that showcase French-Canadian heritage and talent.

Ultimate Schitt’s Creek road trip guide

Celebrate one of Canada’s most beloved shows on a country escape to Schitt’s Creek filming locations, with fun stops along the way.

Revival theatres and art house cinemas in Ontario

A revival or repertory (“rep”) cinema is an independent movie theatre that shows rare, classic or cult films in addition to the mainstream releases.

Spring activities in Ontario

Birds soar. Flowers bloom. And everything feels new and inviting. Don’t miss a thing, spring in Ontario is spectacular.

Unique and independent bookstores in Ontario

From cozy secondhand or speciality bookstores to spacious bookstores showcasing new novels, there’s a place for every literary lover to discover their next great read in Ontario.

Notable movie and TV show locations in Ontario

Visit some of the most noteworthy Ontario spots where your favourite blockbuster movies and TV shows were filmed.

Guide to live theatre in Ontario

Each year Ontario stages light up as theatres and playhouses announce their seasonal playbills.

Literary events in Ontario 2025

Experience the joy of storytelling with fellow writers and book lovers.

Ontario four season guide

Any time of year can be the best time to experience Ontario.

Film festivals in Ontario

Ontario hosts a variety of cinematic events for film buffs throughout the year, including the famous Toronto International Film Festival.

Where to stay near theatres and playhouses in Ontario

Enjoy a live theatre performance with the convenience of staying at a nearby hotel, inn or bed and breakfast.

Specific spots

Here are some related things to do.

4th Line Theatre

Visit the historical and picturesque Winslow Farm to see entertaining theatrical performances written by Canadians.

Algonquin Theatre

Experience exceptional live entertainment in a cozy, community-focused setting at Algonquin Theatre.

Regent Theatre

One of the few Edwardian-era opera theatres left in Canada, this historic gem has been open for over a century.

1000 Islands Playhouse

Talent from across Canada is showcased at this historic venue with panoramic waterfront views of the St. Lawrence River.

The Rose Theatre

Showcasing quality theatre, dance, comedy and music all year long at Brampton’s state of the art performing arts centre.

The Roxy Theatre

Be entertained by the live theatre performances and concerts at this former opera house, which was built more than a century ago.

Stirling Festival Theatre

Come for stand-up comedy, dinner theatre, tribute shows or their thriving program for young people.

St. Francis Centre for Community, Arts & Culture

Experience the joys and drama of stage and film productions in a beautiful retrofitted Victorian Gothic Church in the Ajax community.

4th Line Theatre

Algonquin Theatre

Regent Theatre

1000 Islands Playhouse

The Rose Theatre

The Roxy Theatre

Stirling Festival Theatre

St. Francis Centre for Community, Arts & Culture

Last updated: April 9, 2025

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