The Thousand Islands Playhouse is the cultural heart of Gananoque, a professional not-for-profit theatre at 185 South Street, right on the banks of the St. Lawrence River. Its main stage, the 350-seat Springer Theatre, was built in 1909 as the Gananoque Canoe Club and converted into a theatre in 1982, and it sits on the water, which gives an evening out an unusual setting. The 130-seat Firehall Theatre, a black box added in 2004, occupies a former armoury of 1913 that later served as the town's fire and police station. The company began in 1982 with a three-show season and now produces a seven-show, two-venue programme, and it draws more than 48,000 visitors a year. It is a registered charity, and tickets are sold through its own website and box office.
What to do
Book a show, and arrive early to enjoy the riverside setting before the curtain. The Playhouse's programme typically mixes classic and contemporary plays with musicals, and the two venues give it variety, from larger productions in the Springer Theatre to more intimate work in the Firehall. The company's first season included On Golden Pond, The Comedy of Errors and The Beggar's Opera, which shows how far its range goes.
Many visitors pair a matinee or evening performance with dinner in Gananoque and a walk by the water, which turns a theatre trip into a complete day or night out. Check the season lineup on the website to see what suits your tastes and your age group.
Seasons and planning
The Playhouse runs a warm-weather season, and the site publishes its lineups for upcoming seasons, so check the website for the plays on during your visit rather than assuming a show will be on. Tickets are best reserved ahead for popular titles and for weekends in July and August, and the box office can advise on accessibility and seating.
Performance times, ticket classes and any family pricing are on the Playhouse website, so we do not quote prices. Dress is relaxed, and a layer is wise for riverside evenings, even in summer. Parking in town is straightforward, and the theatre is walkable from the main street and many Gananoque hotels.
Fitting it in
A show takes two to three hours including the interval, so it suits an evening after a day on the water, such as a morning cruise followed by an early dinner and a performance. Gananoque is about 30 minutes east of Kingston by road, so it is also feasible as an evening trip from the city if you have a car and plan your return.
It is a good choice for couples and for families with older children, and a good wet-weather alternative to the outdoor sights. If you are staying in Gananoque, the Playhouse is the most natural evening plan, and a visit to the town is a good reason to stay overnight.
A few practical notes
Arrive early to park and enjoy the riverside, pick up your tickets at the box office and check the start time, since matinees and evening performances differ. Dress comfortably, bring a layer for the riverside, and consider a pre-show meal in Gananoque, as the town's restaurants can be busy before curtain time.
If you need accessible seating or hearing support, contact the box office in advance, and if you are travelling with a group, ask about group arrangements. The setting alone, with the river visible from the venue, makes a performance there feel special.
What to expect
The experience
A live professional theatre performance in a riverside venue, a former canoe club, with a second black box theatre for smaller shows.
Best time
The warm-season run, with evening and matinee performances; weekends in July and August sell out first.
How long
Two to three hours including the interval.
Tips
Check the season lineup, reserve ahead for popular shows, arrive early for the riverside setting and bring a layer for the evening.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Couples and families who like live theatre and want an evening on the river.
- Families
- Best for older children; check the lineup for shows suited to younger audiences.
- Couples
- Book an early dinner in Gananoque, then a show, then a walk by the river.
- Pair with
- The 1000 Islands cruise, Gananoque's waterfront and a riverside dinner make a full day.
- Time needed
- Two to three hours for the performance, plus dinner.
Good questions
Where is the Thousand Islands Playhouse?+
At 185 South Street in Gananoque, on the banks of the St. Lawrence River, within walking distance of the town centre.
What are the venues?+
The 350-seat Springer Theatre, built in 1909 as a canoe club, and the 130-seat Firehall Theatre, a black box in a former armoury built in 1913.
When is the season?+
The company runs a warm-weather season, and the website publishes the lineup for upcoming seasons. Check it for dates and titles.
How do I buy tickets?+
Through the Playhouse's own website and box office. Reserve ahead for weekends in July and August.
How long has the Playhouse operated?+
It was founded in 1982, when community members converted the Gananoque Canoe Club into a theatre, and it now draws more than 48,000 visitors a year.
