The Fredericton Playhouse project has begun to take shape!This expansion will create72,000 square feet of new theatre, performance and community spaces,featuring three major art installations— two of which will be created by local Indigenous artists. Once complete, the Playhouse will be an expanded cultural hub welcoming localemerging artists as well as larger performers, orchestras and more.

“There is a thriving arts culture in Fredericton, New Brunswick,” said Luke Johnson, Senior Project Manager, EllisDon. “The Playhouse is the heartbeat of this community and seeing each piece of the project come together is incredibly rewarding. This isn’tjust about building theatres—it’s about creating a space where artists launch their careers and where children and families discover a lifelong passion for the arts.”

Project Highlights

The new performing arts centre will more than double in size, featuring two performance spaces: The Main Hall, a large theatre seating up to 850 patrons, and The Theatre, a more intimate venue with seating for up to 285.

The shared main lobby will serve as both a concession space and an informal performance area, providing even more opportunities for artistic expression. The Theatre will offer flexible, affordable, high-quality performance space—designed to meet the long-standing needs of local artists and groups. A key feature of the project is its three public art installations.

One, set for completion after the main build, will symbolize the energy and vibrancy of the new space. Another, a wall installation at the top of the stairs to the third floor, depicts the surface of the Wolastoq/Saint John River. Lastly, the lobby floor will showcase a tile installation by local Wolastoqiyik artist SamaqaniCocahq, featuring a half-finished basket that symbolizes the interconnected relationships that define community.

Expanding a Love of the Arts

The Fredericton Playhouse has been a cornerstone for the arts in New Brunswick, bringing people together to share in the power of live performance. It has served as a space where diverse voices and stories unite to foster connection and community. With the expansion, this legacy will not only continue but reach new heights, bringing in new artists and launching a life-long love of arts and entertainment.