Kingston Grand Theatre and Tett Centre for Creativity & Learning offer a season of inspiring events.
218 Princess St.
Visitors are in for an all-encompassing historical and cultural experience when they step inside the Kingston Grand Theatre — a century-old establishment in the heart of downtown. This intimate venue marries its rich heritage with modern comfort, featuring comfortable seating and a large, sweeping stage. You can catch a classical concert in the main auditorium, boasting 776 seats, or an experimental dance piece in the more intimate Baby Grand space.
“The Grand offers world-class production, reserved seating, on-site concessions, and a location that’s walkable to restaurants and shops,” says Jayson Duggan, Performing Arts Manager with the City of Kingston.
The Grand’s story began in 1902, when it was constructed on the site of Martin’s Opera House, which had burned down in 1898. But by the 1960s, the building faced demolition, leading Kingston’s community to step in and save the important landmark. As a result, the Grand became city-owned.
Today, the theatre hosts its Grand OnStage series, key events on the city’s cultural calendar. The series attracts international acts like the Grand Shanghai Circus and Ireland’s Danú as well as noted Canadian artists including Jann Arden and the Sam Roberts Band.
We are absolutely a multidisciplinary facility,” emphasizes Duggan. “You could come one night and see a band, the next a contemporary dance performance, and the night after that a comedy show.
The Grand continues to support both emerging and established artists and collaborates alongside other local venues. They’re just one part of Kingston’s “healthy [artistic] ecology,” according to Duggan.
Before or after the curtain rises, visitors can explore the vibrant neighbourhood that surrounds the theatre. You can grab dinner at a local restaurant, stroll along the waterfront, or shop at the boutiques nearby.
370 King St. West
Overlooking the St. Lawrence River, Tett Centre for Creativity & Learning invites visitors to explore Kingston’s thriving arts scene inside this former 19th-century brewery and distillery. Tett Centre blends modern day architecture, including a dance and pottery studio, with historic design aspects, such as a malting tower that stands tall above the creative hub.
Since its transformation in 2015, Tett Centre has become a cornerstone of Kingston’s cultural life. It is located next door to the Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing Arts. With eight studio artists and eight resident arts organizations—ranging from dance and theatre to visual arts and music—Tett Centre offers something for every artistic interest and level of experience. After taking an artistic class, visitors can stop by Juniper Cafe to sip a latte or enjoy lunch on the lakefront patio.
Tett Centre is a very unique cultural creative hub,” Tett director Brianne Franklin explains. “There’s something for everyone in the building, no matter where you are along your artistic journey.
Whether you're visiting Kingston for a weekend or just passing through, this unique space offers you a chance to connect with local artists and explore your own creative ideas.
Free and by-donation programs like Tett Tuesday and the Kids Creativity Club encourage regular community participation, but Tett Centre also draws in passersby. Visitors might just be dropping in for a coffee but then find themselves immersed in something unexpected, Franklin explains.
"You can drop by anytime during opening hours and discover something new—from making a new connection with a studio artist or trying out a musical instrument at the lending library," Franklin says
What to check out this fall:
This year, the Tett is celebrating their 10th anniversary with an event on October 4. Tett@10: Reflections features immersive artistic experiences and live performances. The celebration invites guests to journey through the last decade while exploring the theme of 'Reflections' in multiple dimensions—from cherished memories and displays to the impact the Tett’s creative community has made on Kingston's artistic fabric. The is 19+ and runs from 7 to 10:30 pm. Tickets on sale now.
For more than 50 years, Ailey II – The Next Generation of Dance – has merged the spirit and energy of the country’s finest early-career dance talent with the passion and creative vision of today’s most outstanding and emerging choreographers. Founded by Alvin Ailey in 1974, this universally renowned company embodies his pioneering mission to establish an extended cultural community that provides dance performances, training, and community programs for all people. The 2024-25 repertory features two world premieres by former Ailey II member Alia Kache and by Houston Thomas, as well as repertory favorites and beloved classics. This season also celebrates the life and legacy of beloved Artistic Director Emerita Judith Jamison. Tickets on sale now.
A fusion of stand-up comedy, storytelling, and unapologetic fact-blasting, Fat Joke thrusts fatphobia into the spotlight. Cheyenne Rouleau surgically dissects this seldom-discussed subject with a razor-sharp wit that leaves the audience confronting their assumptions. Brace yourself for a social commentary that challenges conventions, sparks crucial conversations, and keeps you laughing in the process. Intended for adult audiences. Tickets on sale now.
Engage with Tett throughout the fall. From open studios, exhibitions, and art sales to workshops and kids’ craft clubs, the Tett offers a range of events and programming. View the calendar of events.
Experience an unforgettable night of music with the JUNO award-winning Canadian singer, songwriter, guitarist and two-time Grammy Award Nominee for his work as producer and writer with The Fabulous Thunderbirds. Blending soulful acoustic mastery with electrifying blues-rock energy, Steve Strongman delivers a powerful world-class performance featuring his unmistakable sound and raw passion. Tickets on sale now.
