An Unforgettable Theatre Experience For Everyone
Victoria Playhouse is a professional theatre without pretense.
We believe there’s something magical about going to the theatre and we want you to experience that soul-stirring feeling every time you visit our theatre by the sea.
A night at the Victoria Playhouse is an invitation to enjoy contemporary live performances in an intimate setting. Sit back, get comfortable, and let yourself be swept away.
Whether you’re falling out of your seat laughing or holding your breath as the drama unfolds, we hope you will fall in love with the theatre experience all over again. After all, that’s why we open our doors every season – because we believe in the magic of live theatre.
Since our first opening night in 1981, we have been committed to showcasing the incredible talents of Canadian playwrights and featuring plays that people from all walks of life can enjoy. We love light-hearted comedies and stories that are relatable to Canadians and this shines through in the productions we run each season.
We also have a soft spot for live music. Of course, it helps that Victoria Playhouse boasts incredible acoustics. Every summer we host a concert series featuring incredible Canadian musicians from near and far. Past performers have included David Myles, Martha Wainwright, Lennie Gallant, Ashley MacIsaac, and Catherine MacLellan.
On average, the Playhouse presents over seventy performances a year and during the peak season (July through September), operates seven days a week.
Our theatre is for everyone – young and old, theatre newbies and seasoned theatre-goers – we hope you can join us for one or more of our upcoming performances!
Our History
In 1981, the residents of Victoria voted in favour of the production of live theatre at their community hall. They believed that the presence of the theatre would contribute to the quality of life and the village’s social and economic vitality.
With the residents’ blessing, Erskine and Pat Smith set about founding the Victoria Playhouse at the community’s historic Victoria Hall. Located at the exact centre of the village, the hall was constructed between 1912 and 1915 and is widely-reputed for its gorgeous, intimate interior and excellent acoustics.
The curtain on Victoria’s new theatre company opened in 1981 and, since then, has seen 39 seasons (and counting!) of professional theatre and performance events.
In 2007, the Hall was designated a ‘Historic Place’ on the Canadian Register of Historic Places. The Hall has been at the heart of the community for over one hundred years and continues to bring people together, from near and far, to share in the magic of live performances.
Theatre Cats
No, we’re not speaking of the Broadway musical when we refer to our theatre cats. Rather, we’re referring to the seemingly endless parade of cats that have frequented Victoria Playhouse over the years.
From welcoming guests to providing entertainment at intermission to trying to sneak in to catch the second act, our theatre cats have certainly contributed their many talents to the Playhouse.
To be clear, we haven’t actually hired any cats to be part of the theatre team, but something about Victoria Hall seems to attract furry felines.
One cat, in particular, made her mark at the theatre in the 90s. Her name was Monica and she frequented the theatre so often that Erskine Smith, our late artistic director, made her a bow tie to wear for opening night. Yes, it was adorable.
So don’t be surprised if you happen to find a cat rubbing up against your leg or mewwing at you, they just want to welcome you to their favourite theatre.
Theatre Amenities
Air Conditioning: Yes, we offer a comfortable, air-conditioned theatre experience!
Concessions: We have a small concessions stand at the theatre, where you can purchase beverages and snacks.
Dine Before the Show: Victoria may be small, but the village boasts several incredible dining options, including The Landmark, Lobster Barn, Richard’s Seafood, and Casa Mia. All of our restaurants are very used to accommodating theatre-goers – just let your server know you are attending the evening show and they’ll make sure you’re on your way in good time!
Theatre Policies
Service Charge: There is a $1.50 per ticket service charge.
Exchanges: Tickets may be exchanged for another performance (subject to availability) up to 24 hours before the performance.
Refunds: All sales are final.
Latecomers: If you arrive late for the performance you will be seated at an appropriate break in the performance.
Mailing List: Your name will be added to our mailing list when you book your tickets. To add other names or have your name removed please call the Box Office or email us.
Children: We welcome youth old enough to enjoy our productions. Children must be seated where they can be supervised by a parent or guardian.