Shaw Festival Theatre
World-class theatre in the heart of charming Niagara-on-the-Lake, offering acclaimed productions and a memorable cultural escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed atmosphere
Shaw Festival Theatre
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
World-class theatre in the heart of charming Niagara-on-the-Lake, offering acclaimed productions and a memorable cultural escape.
"Exceeded my expectations with high production value and a fantastic theatrical experience."
🎟️ Book Ahead for Best Seats
Popular shows sell out fast! Secure your tickets early to avoid disappointment and get the best views.
🚸 Booster Seats Available
Traveling with kids? The theatre provides booster seats to ensure everyone has a clear view.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
World-Class Productions
Festival Theatres
Experience critically acclaimed plays, from classics to contemporary works, performed by a renowned theatre company.
The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe
Festival Theatres
A magical adaptation that wows audiences of all ages with its stunning set and costumes.
Behind-the-Scenes Tour
Festival Theatres
Gain insight into the magic of theatre with a guided tour of the operations and backstage areas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Combine with Niagara-on-the-Lake Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Ahead for Best Seats
Popular shows sell out fast! Secure your tickets early to avoid disappointment and get the best views.
🚸 Booster Seats Available
Traveling with kids? The theatre provides booster seats to ensure everyone has a clear view.
🚗 Parking Fees
Be aware of the $25 parking fee. Consider arriving early to find a spot or explore alternative transport.
☕ Enjoy the Atrium
The theatre's atrium offers ample space to relax, stand, or sit before the show begins.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Ahead for Best Seats
Popular shows sell out fast! Secure your tickets early to avoid disappointment and get the best views.
🚸 Booster Seats Available
Traveling with kids? The theatre provides booster seats to ensure everyone has a clear view.
🚗 Parking Fees
Be aware of the $25 parking fee. Consider arriving early to find a spot or explore alternative transport.
☕ Enjoy the Atrium
The theatre's atrium offers ample space to relax, stand, or sit before the show begins.
🛍️ Explore Local Shops
Combine your theatre visit with exploring Niagara-on-the-Lake's unique shops and galleries.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Shaw Festival for its exceptional production quality, comfortable seating, and the overall charm of Niagara-on-the-Lake. The theatre's staff and volunteers are noted for their friendliness and helpfulness, particularly in accommodating families. While ticket prices can be high, the quality of the performances and the beautiful setting are seen as justifying the cost.
"Nice to see that this venue is still great and has kept up with the times. Seats are very comfortable for longer performances and the slope of the theatre is great. You have a great view even in the second last row of orchestra. Came to see Anything Goes and the production was excellent. Really high production value. Exceeded my expectations."
Bertan
"We took our children to the Shaw Festival's production of "The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe". The production was amazing. Well written and produced. We were blown away by the set design, costuming and acting.
The theater itself is very charming with a lovely gift shop and concession. There is a lot of space in the atrium to sit or stand.
The staff and volunteers were wonderful. They even brought booster seats for the kids which meant we didn't have to worry about them not being able to see over the seats ahead of them.
I really hope we get to go back sometime in the future!"
Tara Freeman
"The play at the Shaw festival what is absolutely fantastic.
Niagara on the lake was spectacular.
The floral display within the town was in full bloom. All the unique shops we're very busy in the streets were filled with people. It was a wonderful experience!"
Tim Speares
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Shaw Festival Theatre is located in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. It's accessible by car, with parking available on-site for a fee. Public transportation options are limited, so many visitors opt for a scenic drive from Toronto or other nearby cities. Consider ride-sharing services or taxis for convenience.
Yes, parking is available at the Shaw Festival Theatre, but it comes with a fee of approximately $25. It's recommended to arrive early, especially for popular performances, to secure a spot.
Absolutely! Niagara-on-the-Lake is a charming destination on its own, known for its wineries, boutiques, and historic architecture. You can enjoy afternoon tea, explore the town, or visit local attractions like the TASC Tulip Festival.
The most common way is by car, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic. You can also look into bus tours or private car services that often combine theatre tickets with transportation.
Yes, Niagara-on-the-Lake offers a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels like the Oban Inn and 124 on Queen to charming bed and breakfasts. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary significantly, with some seats for popular shows like 'Anything Goes' costing upwards of $197.75. It's advisable to check the official Shaw Festival website for current pricing and to book in advance.
Tickets can be purchased directly through the official Shaw Festival website, by phone, or at the box office. It's generally recommended to buy in advance, especially for high-demand performances.
While prices can be high, keep an eye out for potential rush tickets, student discounts, or package deals. Some visitors suggest checking for last-minute availability, though this is not guaranteed.
Performance schedules vary depending on the play and day of the week. It's best to check the Shaw Festival's official schedule online for specific showtimes and dates. The box office and gift shop will have their own operating hours.
Policies on refunds and exchanges typically depend on the terms and conditions set by the Shaw Festival. It's important to review their policy at the time of purchase, as exchanges may be subject to fees or availability.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
The theatre offers comfortable seating with a good slope, ensuring excellent views from most locations, even in the back rows. Booster seats are available for children to enhance their viewing experience.
Yes, there is a concession stand offering snacks and beverages. The theatre also has a charming gift shop. For a full dining experience, consider visiting one of the many restaurants in Niagara-on-the-Lake before or after the show.
The Shaw Festival strives to be accessible. Information regarding accessible seating, washrooms, and other accommodations can typically be found on their website or by contacting the box office directly.
The Shaw Festival is renowned for staging plays written by George Bernard Shaw, as well as plays inspired by his work and other significant playwrights from the Shaw era. They also produce contemporary works.
Generally, photography and videography are not permitted during performances to avoid disturbing the actors and audience. However, you may be able to take photos in the lobby or atrium before or after the show. Check with theatre staff for specific guidelines.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Niagara-on-the-Lake boasts a fantastic culinary scene. Popular spots include the Prince of Wales Hotel for afternoon tea, Budapest Bakeshop for chimney cakes, and various restaurants offering diverse cuisines. BarrelHead Pizzeria is known for its wood-fired pizza.
Yes, the theatre is surrounded by numerous restaurants and cafes in Niagara-on-the-Lake, offering everything from casual bites to fine dining experiences. Many visitors enjoy a meal before or after attending a performance.
Typically, outside food and beverages are not allowed inside the performance hall. Concessions are available for purchase within the theatre.
The restaurants in Niagara-on-the-Lake often have a charming and historic ambiance, reflecting the town's character. Many offer outdoor seating during warmer months, and some provide a romantic setting for couples.
Don't miss trying a chimney cake from Budapest Bakeshop, or exploring the local produce like cherries and peaches, especially during harvest season. Ice cream from Cows is also a popular treat.
📸 📸 Photography
The Royal George Theatre itself is picturesque, especially with its historic architecture. The town of Niagara-on-the-Lake offers many charming streetscapes, floral displays, and nearby wineries that make for beautiful photos.
Photography is generally prohibited during performances to ensure the audience's focus and respect for the artists. However, you might be able to capture some shots of the theatre's interior or exterior before or after the show.
Yes, the entire town is very photogenic! Look for the beautiful floral displays, historic buildings, and the waterfront. Nearby wineries also offer stunning vineyard views.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for capturing the town's charm. Midday can be busy with tourists, but also offers vibrant scenes.
The Royal George Theatre building is a key landmark. The surrounding streets with their Victorian architecture and the town's main square are also excellent for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🥂 Couples & Romantic Getaways
🎭 Theatre Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Shaw Festival Experience
Attending a performance at the Shaw Festival offers a chance to witness high-quality productions with impressive set designs, costumes, and talented actors. Shows like 'The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe' have been particularly praised for their magical execution, captivating both adults and children. For those interested in the craft of theatre, the 'behind-the-scenes' tours provide a fascinating glimpse into the complex operations that bring these productions to life, revealing the dedication and artistry involved.
While the ticket prices can be a consideration, many patrons find the experience to be well worth the investment for the caliber of theatre offered. The comfortable seating and excellent sightlines in the theatres contribute to an enjoyable viewing experience. The festival also plays a significant role in supporting the local community and arts scene, with events like the Shaw Boxing fundraiser contributing to its continued success.
Exploring Niagara-on-the-Lake
Beyond the visual appeal, Niagara-on-the-Lake is a food lover's paradise. Visitors can indulge in a traditional afternoon tea at the historic Prince of Wales Hotel, savor authentic Hungarian chimney cakes from Budapest Bakeshop, or enjoy wood-fired pizzas at BarrelHead Pizzeria. The region is also a hub for wineries, offering wine tastings and vineyard tours that provide a scenic backdrop and a taste of local produce like cherries and peaches.
For those seeking a complete getaway, numerous charming inns and hotels are available, such as the Oban Inn, offering a luxurious and relaxing stay. The combination of world-class theatre, a beautiful historic town, and exceptional dining makes Niagara-on-the-Lake a highly sought-after destination for a memorable trip.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit