Photo: Performance at the Capitol Theatre © Dahlia Katz
In the heart of Port Hope, Ontario, you’ll find the Capitol Theatre, home to year-round, world-class live entertainment. Founded in 1930 as the town’s local cinema, the Capitol is now one of the last remaining atmospheric theatres in the country, where concerts, plays, special events, and film screenings are staged under a gorgeous starry sky.
Helmed by Artistic Director Rob Kempson since 2021, the Capitol has become a vibrant community hub and home for artistic excellence, drawing artists and audiences from across the county and Canada. Every year, the Capitol offers a slate of crowd-pleasing plays, from Broadway hits like Waitress to Canadian hits like Prairie Nurse, as well as original holiday pantos, cabarets, and concerts. The Capitol also supports local artists in creating world premiere productions, like 2025’s Rez Gas. Fans of theatre festivals like Stratford and Shaw are sure to see a few familiar faces on stage each season. All of the amazing sets, props, and costumes are made by skilled artisans on-site at the theatre.
“The Capitol has become known as a place to see some of the best artists in Canada, right here in Northumberland County,” said Kempson. “Each year, we assemble a season and artistic team that reflects a strong commitment to our values and a sense of balance, to sincerely welcome folks from near and far. While the work on stage might tug at your heartstrings, have you laughing all the way home, or keep your toes tapping, it will also speak to individual experiences of finding out where we fit in the world.”
Enhancing the visitor experience throughout the season, the Capitol also offers backstage tours, artist talks, design presentations, and other special events that take visitors behind the scenes. These events are free for Capitol Theatre subscribers and available for everyone. The Capitol also partners with local shops and restaurants, offering visitors a full-service and authentically local experience.
Managing Director Erin Peirce added: “As one of the largest economic and tourism drivers in Port Hope, we welcome tens of thousands of folks each year, who love and value live entertainment. Our seasons truly have something for everyone, and we’re thrilled to welcome returning and new folks each year. We invite visitors to check out our Shop, Dine & Show package, especially if they are new to Port Hope. There’s no better time to plan a staycation, support local businesses, and enjoy original Canadian arts and culture.”
Located only one hour east of Toronto, Port Hope is a heritage community on Lake Ontario’s north shore. An urban and rural paradise with the perfect mix of hometown charm, modern vibrancy, and cultural allure, Port Hope boasts miles of waterfront trails, sandy beaches, an iconic main street, quaint surrounding villages, and scenic country driving routes.
A visit to the Capitol Theatre means a visit to one of Ontario’s most beautiful small towns while enjoying some of the best live theatre in the country.
Visit CapitolTheatre.com to learn more, follow them on Instagram @capitoltheatreporthope, or visit in person at 20 Queen Street, Port Hope, Ontario.
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The Capitol Theatre is committed to producing and presenting a balanced schedule of high-quality professional theatre, live music, film, and other special events in historic Port Hope, while also providing a home for the local arts community.