8 Exciting Live Theatres in Nova Scotia to Visit
When the summer sun graces Nova Scotia, the province transforms into a vibrant stage, where some of Canada’s most enchanting live theatre experiences come to life. From the rugged coastline of Halifax to the rolling hills of the Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia’s summer theatres offer more than just a show—they offer a unique experience. During my epic week-long visit, I enjoyed performances at some of the best live theatres in Nova Scotia
As an avid theatre goer, I am astounded at the number of Nova Scotia theatres that are outdoors. One of the best is Shakespeare By the Sea in Halifax. Surrounded by parkland and historic ruins, you’ll feel transported a world away by more than the play. Another unique theatre take takes place off grid is Two Planks and a Passion Theatre. Located just north of Wolfville, the theatre offers immersive storytelling by the light of a bonfire.
In this guide I’m sharing a number of the best places to enjoy live theatre in the summer in Nova Scotia. You’ll learn a bit about each theatre company, including their season, what kinds of shows they put on as well as accessibility.
Whether you’re a seasoned theatre enthusiast or looking for unique things to do, exploring Nova Scotia’s theatre scene is the perfect excuse to plan a summer road trip. So, start planning your trip today and add one or more of these amazing theatres to your itinerary.
Best Live Theatres in Nova Scotia that are Indoors
Neptune Theatre
When it comes to live theatre in Halifax, Nova Scotia the Neptune Theatre is a class act! Running shows for over 55 years, it is considered one of best places for live theatre in Atlantic Canada. Plus, it’s open year-round, so that no matter the time of year you visit, you can enjoy a performance.
Its central location makes it a must-visit attraction in downtown Halifax. I also love that the theatre is located on Argyle Street, which is lined with an assortment of bars and restaurants. This makes enjoying a night out of dinner and show very convenient.
The Neptune Theatre puts on a variety of plays and musicals. During my visit, I enjoyed Dear Rita, which is a unique musical sharing the life story of Cape Breton’s Rita MacNeil. With a handful of actors all playing the role of Rita, I loved how they used MacNeil’s own songs to help tell the tale. The best part is that there’s a few surprises, especially at the end of the performance that will wow you and warm your heart!
Inside the Neptune Theatre, I was struck by the sleek, modern vibe of the main hall. There’s also an elegant reception room where you can grab a drink before show. With a seating capacity of over 450, the Neptune Theatre has a classic set up with a main floor and balcony. I loved our main floor seats, and think row E offers an ideal vantage point of the stage.
Upcoming shows include A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Disney’s Frozen, and Dickens’ Christmas Carol.
Tip: Before the show, if you’re looking to grab a bite to eat, you’ll find a variety of options along Argyle Street, steps from the theatre. I enjoyed dinner at the Stubborn Goat Gastropub. Alternatively, I also recommend World Tea House, which is right across the street from the Neptune Theatre.
Theatre Baddeck
In the scenic waterfront community of Baddeck, Cape Breton, you’ll find another one of the best Nova Scotia theatres. Theatre Baddeck offers a fabulous theatre experience that’s high quality but in an intimate setting. The best part is that they showcase distinct Cape Breton stories. So, if you’re looking for things to do in Baddeck, add a performance at the Theatre Baddeck to embrace the Cape Breton Island culture.
Performances at Theatre Baddeck generally run from July through October. Plus, there’s often a Christmas show that the locals told me is always magical. Each year there’s typically three main shows. During my visit I saw The Company Store, a story about a mining family in Cape Breton during the 1950s. The incredible lead will draw you in while the ensemble each hold their own. I loved how this small production felt larger than life at times with the gripping storylines, all while the actors moved the stage props around to set a new scene without interrupting the flow or breaking the magic.
Another cool feature of the theatre is that it’s set within an old Masonic Hall that was built in 1898. While it’s a historic building, visitors can enjoy air conditioning as well as accessibility with a ramp at the entrance. There’s also a small parking lot next door as well as roadside parking. Inside you’ll also find a small licensed bar for snacks and drinks.
Tip: I recommend buying tickets in advance as you’ll save a few dollars. However, tickets are very budget friendly at roughly $35 at the door.
Ship’s Company Theatre
Perched along the Bay of Fundy in Parrsboro is Ship’s Company Theatre. The view from the parking lot is a stellar one, you can enjoy watching the incredible tides before or after the show.
Ship’s Company Theatre has an ideal spot in the artsy community of Parrsboro. Even the building is creative with a massive ship taking up centre stage of the outdoor lobby. The ship, MV Kipawo, which was one of the longest-serving ferries in Canada, is where the theatre’s name comes from.
The theatre company, celebrates their 40th year in 2024, and showcases Canadian works with a focus on new pieces by Maritime writers. In addition to theatre and music, they also put on a variety of events like Picnic Plays where you can enjoy theatre outdoors. The Ship’s Company is another of the amazing places to enjoy summer theatre in Nova Scotia, with the season typically running July through September.
During my visit, I enjoyed a preview of the wildly funny Prude by Lou Campbell. This one-person show is a fun mix of comedy, drag and music that will have you singing and standing taller as you exit.
You’ll find a wide assortment of shows at the Ship’s Company Theatre. There’s everything from kid-friendly shows to unique musical theatre.
Tip: Pop by the outdoor lobby before the show, you can enjoy a snack and refreshment at the café. Plus, you may stumble upon a line dancing lesson like I did!
Best Outdoor Live Theatres in Nova Scotia
Shakespeare By the Sea
When it comes to the best summer theatre in Nova Scotia its Shakespeare By the Sea in Halifax. Hidden among the trees in Point Pleasant Park, this theatre company has been astounding audiences since 1994. Shakespeare By the Sea is the largest and longest-running outdoor theatre festival in Atlantic Canada. 2024 marks their 31st season! They put on exceptionally crafted modern adaptations of Shakespeare classics with the season running July through August.
Beyond the entertaining and talented actors, one of the things that makes Shakespeare By the Sea so unique is its location. The stage is set among the ruins of Cambridge Battery in Point Pleasant Park. As we sat in our foldable camp chairs, I was blown away by the magical setting. I even spotted two osprey and a blue heron fly overhead as dusk descended.
During my visit, I took in the Twelfth Night. Other shows this season include Alice in Wonderland and a wildly unique performance of MacBeth that is going to be unrehearsed, which shows the high caliber of actors.
Shakespeare By the Sea is also accessible for those in wheelchair via the 15-minute pathway from the parking lot to the stage. Plus, if you have mobility issues you can call ahead to book a golf cart to bring you directly for free.
Another unique attribute of Shakespeare By the Sea is that there is no stadium seating. Instead, you can bring a fold up camping chair or picnic blanket. Or book ‘Sweet Seats,’ which are great for visitors to Halifax as they are reserved seats already set up for you.
“Sweet Seats” (reserved seats) for the productions can be reserved online in advance at ShakespearebytheSea.ca, along with Pay-What-You-Can tickets available at the door on the day of each performance. Performances start at 7pm nightly and run Tuesday through Sunday.
Two Planks and a Passion Theatre
Another unique summer theatre in Nova Scotia is Two Planks and a Passion Theatre. This award-winning theatre, running for over 30 years, also takes place outdoors and is located in Canning, 20 minutes north of Wolfville or an hour north of Halifax. The season is typically June through September.
The theatre is set on over 150 acres of farmland at Ross Creek Centre for the Arts. Two Planks and a Passion puts on a unique off the grid experience, with the only light from a central campfire. They showcase an assortment of works including classics that are told anew as well as new Canadian pieces.
During my two days in Wolfville, I enjoyed two different performances. The first, Chased by the Bear, is a musical adaptation of Shakespeare’s The Winter’s Tale. The diverse cast blew me away by their masterful performance that included acting, singing and instruments. In the rural landscape, among the towering trees, I felt transported a world away!
The second show I saw The Mountain and The Valley, which is an adaptation of Ernest Buckler’s book. Fittingly set in the Annapolis Valley, the exact region the theatre is located in, it tells the story of a young man and how our family and the people we grow up with help shape who we become.
One of the cool features of Two Planks and a Passion Theatre is that you can pre-order a picnic meal. Before our afternoon show, we enjoyed a picnic lunch of salad, sausage roll, fresh fruit and a dessert overlooking the gardens.
Tip: Be sure to browse the art gallery inside the main building before the show. There’s also a number of props and costumes from pervious plays. Also, I highly recommend covering yourself with the bug spray they have available before the nightly shows, there’s plenty of bugs out there and you’ll thank me later!
More Live Nova Scotia Theatres Open Year-Round
Chester Playhouse
Running performances since 1939, the Chester Playhouse is open throughout the year. The playhouse is located in the village of Chester, about an hour west of Halifax. This community hub puts on a range of shows including live theatre as well as music and films. It’s also wheelchair accessible.
Highland Arts Theatre
Set in a stunning 1910 reimagined church in downtown Sydney, the Highland Arts Theatre offers a stunning venue. With a focus on showcasing Cape Breton stories and songs, the theatre has received numerous awards.
Savoy Theatre
For year 100 years, Savoy Theatre has been entertaining. This year-round Nova Scotia theatre began in 1927. After a stint as a movie theatre, it returned to its roots. Savoy Theatre is located in Cape Breton’s Glace Bay and puts on a variety of shows from local to international.
Frequently Asked Questions about Theatre in Nova Scotia
Does Halifax have a Theatre?
Yes, there are a number of theatres in Halifax. The most popular is Neptune Theatre but my favourite is Shakespeare By the Sea. Others include Dalhousie Arts Centre, Spatz Theatre and Bus Stop Theatre.
What is the oldest Theatre in Nova Scotia?
The oldest theatre in Nova Scotia is the Astor Theatre that’s located in Liverpool. Built as the Town Hall in 1902, it has been everything from an opera house to movie theatre and is again a performing arts venue.
What happens to outdoor theatre performances in inclement weather?
It depends on the theatre. Some, like Shakespeare By the Sea will announce a cancellation by 5pm on their social media channels. Two Planks and a Passion Theatre will continue in mild wet conditions but they can also move the show to their indoor venue.
***
So, whether it’s your first or your millionth, I highly recommend adding one or more of these top live theatres in Nova Scotia to your next summer road trip. In addition to exploring the province’s scenic road ways and natural wonders, you’ll leave with a better appreciation for its rich culture.
Disclaimer: I was a guest of Nova Scotia Tourism but all opinions expressed are my own.
Looking for more amazing theatres in Canada? Check out the following posts.
Why You Need to Attend the Stratford Festival
PIN IMAGE FOR LATER REFERENCE!
