A recurring theme these days at Meaford Hall Arts & Cultural Centre is that this historic venue does have it all. From professional theatre, live concerts, school programming, film festivals, art exhibits, conferences, meetings, workshops, weddings, and celebrations of every kind, this community hub continues to buzz with activity.
“There is a reason why that row of restaurants exists across the street,” explained Krista Storey, manager of cultural services. “Meaford Hall is very important to the economic and social well-being of the community and the entire region.”
With summer just around the corner, so is the summer line-up at Meaford Hall that promises to be fun and exciting for the entire family. The 2023 summer theatre season features three stellar professional productions, starting with the award-winning musical Confessions of a Redheaded Coffeeshop Girl, written by and starring Rebecca Perry. Running from July 11 to 15, this one-woman show is funny and overflowing with heartwarming and hilarious life lessons for anyone who ever had a job they didn’t like.
For Star Wars fans, Charlie Ross’s One Man Star Wars Trilogy will have you in stitches as he plays all the roles in this solo ‘tour de farce’. With express permission from George Lucas Films, you’ll not want to miss this award-winning show. If you’ve been looking for the perfect occasion to wear that Jedi costume that’s tucked away in your closet, this is it! One Man Star Wars Trilogy runs from July 25 to 29.
The final production of the summer theatre series is Shipyard Kitchen Party’s original folk musical, Tom Thomson’s Wake. This beautiful production celebrates this Group of Seven artist, brought to life by reminiscences of friends, of lovers, and the land he painted. This show runs from August 15 to 19. Don’t miss the corresponding exhibit in the Galleries that includes a selection of pieces from The Tom Gallery and a very special exhibit from the Tree Trust Meaford. Summer Theatre tickets are regular $40, and $20 for students.
Summer isn’t just about theatre, The Hall plays host to a variety of incredible concerts too. In fact, a Summer Season Flex Pass will get you one ticket to each of the three summer theatre productions plus one ticket to one of these three topnotch concerts: Western Swing Authority (July 7), Matchedash Parish (July 22), or Everyday People (August 26). A Flex Pass is a great way to save, giving you four great shows for one great price, $120. Local residents can also save by taking advantage of the Local BOGO 2 for 1 deal on Opening Night of each of the three summer theatre production.
Meaford Hall is open year-round and well known for its variety of high-quality performances. Included in the long list of upcoming events, The Hall will play host to a very special evening on Friday, September 8, featuring world-renowned actor, singer-songwriter, and accomplished musician Noah Reid.
A long-time musician, Noah began composing melodies on piano as a child and later developed his songcraft while studying at the National Theatre School of Canada. Noah Reid has earned a permanent place in the music industry as a result of his powerful vocals and honest delivery. As an actor, Reid is best known for playing Patrick in the Emmy-winning comedy series Schitt’s Creek, for which he won a Screen Actors Guild Award, along with the cast, for ‘Best Ensemble’. In 2022 he was seen in Brian Watkins’ Amazon series Outer Range opposite Josh Brolin, Imogen Poots, and Lewis Pullman, and wrapped up his Broadway debut as the lead of Tracy Letts’ Tony-nominated play The Minutes, which received rave reviews. This special event on September 8 will begin with a reception at 6:30 p.m. and concert at 7:30 p.m. with special guest Miranda Mulholland. Tickets are $175.
Over a century of rich history, this beautiful, historic building remains a proud icon and continues to be a monument to prosperity and progress just as Mayor Horsley predicted in 1908.
With approximately 100 performances throughout the year, the Meaford Hall Opera House is well used and receives guests from across the region and beyond. Performances are being added to the schedule each week and patrons of the arts are encouraged to sign up for the Meaford Hall newsletter so as not to miss a beat.
Visit MeafordHall.ca or call the box office at 877-538-0463 for details.
