January 20, 2025

“A Wonderful Theatre” moves toward improved accessibility!

“A Wonderful Theatre” moves toward improved accessibility!

“A WONDERFUL Theatre”

Community theatre is a fantastic asset to any region and Town Hall 1873 Theatre is one of Ontario’s finest. We have many talented thespians, who freely donate endless hours of time, for the sole purpose of entertaining the rest of us. Whether it is the Scugog Choral Society, the Borelians or one of the many tribute concert companies or Dance Studios, quality entertainment is always at the ready for all who love it. Best of all, it is offered at an affordable price.

Not only do we have great performers, we also have a top class theatre, with comfortable seating, an excellent sound system and a brand new lighting setup, utilizing the latest in technology.

Town Hall 1873, originally the Town Hall of Port Perry, has been used as the town jail, a courthouse, roller skating rink, movie house, fire station and ladies undergarment factory. The Township had plans for the grand old building, and those were to tear it down and create a parking area. A group of dedicated citizens persuaded them to do otherwise, and the building was saved. In 1973, Town Hall 1873 again reverted to a theatre (it had been one, back in the day). A stage was added, but otherwise the hall retained its historic state for nearly three decades. A cupola was added, which you may have noticed was recently removed for a major, year long, reconstruction, and the grand lady of theatre was back in business.

And now, we are in the THIRD major renovation, funded in part through  the “Investing in Canadian Infrastructure Program” (ICIP). 

About the Project: Over recent years, we’ve been working to modernize our presence at Town Hall 1873. With the help of strategic planning consultants and creative partners, we’ve recently refreshed our look. These improvements are part of a larger vision to preserve and enhance Town Hall 1873. Projects under an ICIP grant have been focused on improving our historic building’s accessibility and sustainability.

Projects Currently Completed:

  • Updated audio equipment
  • Refurbished Marquee
  • Bell Tower Restoration
  • Patrons Lounge aesthetic renovations
  • Improvements to the Kitchen and Green Room

The Final Step?  Improved Accessibility!

The final step in the project is the installation of a new, fully accessible elevator providing seamless access from the back parking lot to the patron’s lounge, auditorium, and – most exciting of all – direct access to the stage for the first time ever! This is all just the beginning. Completing the elevator will open doors to even more accessibility improvements and with your continued support Town Hall 1873 will remain an inclusive and welcoming space for generations to come.

Project Funding

We have already raised 75% of the $1.2 million with partial funding from the Federal, Provincial, and Municipal Governments. Our RESHAPING THE FUTURE campaign needs $300,000 more to complete our elevator improvements which will allow access to the building from ground to stage level.

How You Can Play a Part

  • Countless individuals have freely given their time and effort to the theatre. The support of the community this
    project will serve is invaluable.
  • Donate Today: Every contribution brings us closer to our goal.
  • One of the many ways to give is to make a lasting impact with one of our unique naming opportunities.
  • See a Show: Support the arts by attending performances and experiencing the magic of live entertainment in our historic venue.
  • Get Involved: Volunteer your time or expertise, your involvement is invaluable.

Keep Reading

  • January 21, 2025
    Volunteer Focus: Kent Farndale
  • January 20, 2025
    “A Wonderful Theatre” moves toward improved accessibility!

Donate Today

Donate Today

Learn about the Ways to Give so you can help “Reshape the Future” of Town Hall 1873 Theatre.

Get Tickets

Get Tickets

Join us for an exceptional theatre experience and see one of our wonderful shows!