The Playhouse (Fredericton) facts for kids
The Fredericton Playhouse is a special place in Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada. It's a theatre where local artists and famous performers from all over the world put on shows. It's a "non-profit" place, which means it uses its money to keep the theatre running and help the arts, not to make a profit for owners.
This theatre was built in 1964. A very generous person named Lord Beaverbrook and his wife wanted to give this gift to New Brunswick. For many years, from 1969 to 2003, it was the home of Theatre New Brunswick. The Playhouse is a beautiful building, designed in a style called Georgian. You can find it right next to the main government building in downtown Fredericton.
History of the Playhouse
The Fredericton Playhouse has an interesting past. Here are some key moments in its history:
- In 1964, the Playhouse was built. It was a gift to the people of New Brunswick from Lord Beaverbrook.
- In 1972, the theatre got some big upgrades. They added new technical features, like a "fly tower." This tower helps move scenery up and down during a show. A famous artist named Tom Forrestall painted a mural on this tower.
- In 2000, the City of Fredericton bought the theatre. This meant the city became responsible for its care.
- In 2006, the Canadian government offered money to help. This money was used to check the building's structure. They wanted to make sure everything was in good shape for the future.
What's Inside the Playhouse?
The Fredericton Playhouse is designed to give audiences a great experience.
- The main performance area is called the auditorium. It can hold many people, up to 709! There are 469 seats on the main floor and 240 seats on the balcony upstairs.
- If you visit, remember that taking photos or videos is usually not allowed. You need special permission from the theatre's technical team first.
- The building is easy to get around for everyone. It is fully accessible for people using wheelchairs.
- Sometimes, the theatre is used for more than just shows. People can also book it for special meetings or parties.
- A person named James de Beaujeu Domville helped to design this wonderful building.
