Popular Mississauga theatre raises the curtain once again with whole new look

A popular Mississauga community theatre will reintroduce itself to residents and members of the arts community starting this weekend.

Presenting a new and more modern look, Meadowvale Theatre, which was shut down in May 2021 for a much-needed facelift, officially reopens to the public this Saturday (Sept. 24) when the facility hosts an open house.

City of Mississauga officials say the revamped theatre is ready to make its “grand debut.”

“Meadowvale Theatre is raising its curtains and is reopening this weekend with a fun-filled open house,” City officials said in a news release today (Sept. 21). “Drop by to see the newly-modernized space and participate in a variety of activities, including a free community barbecue.”

Live music and other activities are also part of Saturday’s event, which runs from noon till 4 p.m. and is open to all ages. Admission is free.

Welcoming remarks will take place at 1 p.m.

Planned activities include:

• community barbecue hosted by Ward 9 City councillor Pat Saito
• an opportunity to explore the renovated features of the theatre and see yourself in a performance after acting on stage
• crafts for kids
• live music from Mississauga artists
• an opportunity to play a musical instrument on the new patio

Additionally, public art by Jay Havens can be viewed and there will be a behind-the-scenes tour offered to visitors.

A free souvenir will be handed out to all guests.

Additionally, theatre characters in costume will be onsite to share information about the City’s Encore Series. The Encore Series has provided musical theatre entertainment to Mississauga and surrounding areas since 1993.

Meadowvale Theatre had already been closed to the public for a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic when it was officially closed for renovations early last year.

The theatre, which had not received any major upgrades since it opened in 1989, has been significantly updated and improvements made in areas of accessibility and energy efficiency.

Renovations have also expanded access, created broader performing arts opportunities and are expected to provide new revenue options for the theatre.

Essentially, the City says, the renovations have transformed the theatre into a more “modern, inspiring and accessible space.”

Mayor Bonnie Crombie, who will be at Saturday’s open house, said last year when renovations began that, “Meadowvale Theatre is a vibrant hub that has been a part of Mississauga’s arts and culture scene for over 30 years.

“I’m so glad that the theatre is getting updated and enhanced, so that it can better serve theatregoers as a place to experience our vibrant performing arts community.”

–with files from Ashley Newport