The History of Showplace Performance Centre
Showplace Performance Centre, located at 290 George Street North in Peterborough, Ontario, Canada, has been a cornerstone of the city’s cultural scene since its opening on October 5, 19961. The venue’s history, however, stretches back even further.
Originally built in 1947 as the Odeon movie theatre, the building was purchased in 1995 by the newly formed Showplace Board of Directors1. After extensive renovations, the space was transformed into a 650-seat performance venue, designed by the architectural firm Lett/Smith1.
The opening of Showplace marked a significant milestone for Peterborough, culminating decades of efforts to establish a dedicated theatre in the city. The inaugural performance fittingly began with the song “This is the Moment,” symbolizing the start of a new era for arts and entertainment in the region13.
With its grand architecture and excellent acoustics, Showplace has become a cultural cornerstone for the Peterborough community, hosting everything from local productions to prestigious competitions like the Bedazzled Dance Champions. The venue’s blend of historical charm and modern theatrical amenities makes it an ideal backdrop for showcasing emerging artistic talent like Maya and her peers.
Notable Performances and Events
Since its inception, Showplace Performance Centre has hosted a diverse array of performances and events:
- Matthew Good (March 14, 2017): The Canadian alt-rock star celebrated the release of his EP “I Miss New Wave: Beautiful Midnight Revisited” by performing his iconic album “Beautiful Midnight” in its entirety4.
- The Piano Men starring Jim Witter (March 11, 2017): This critically acclaimed show took audiences on a nostalgic journey through the 1970s, featuring the music of Billy Joel and Elton John4.
- Dwayne Gretzky (February 21, 2025): The band performed a setlist including covers of “Owner of a Lonely Heart,” “We Got the Beat,” and “Don’t Stop Me Now”2.
- The Stampeders (April 30, 2024): This Canadian rock band is set to perform hits like “Devil You,” “Minstrel Gypsy,” and “Carry Me”2.
- Kim Mitchell (October 12, 2023): The Canadian rock icon played a set including “Rock & Roll Duty,” “Patio Lanterns,” and “I Am a Wild Party”2.
The Bedazzled Dance Championships
This event has become a notable event at the Showplace Performance Centre in Peterborough, Ontario. This competition has been running for over 20 years, with the upcoming season being its 23rd5.
Some key points about the Bedazzled Dance Championships at Showplace include:
- It’s one of Canada’s leading dance competitions, offering over 155 overall awards per weekend5.
- The competition provides over $25,000 in cash prizes and awards per weekend5.
- Every dancer receives a custom award and ribbon, ensuring recognition for all participants5.
- The event features live streaming, allowing a wider audience to enjoy the performances5.
- The competition includes various categories and age divisions, from novice to competitive levels5.
These events not only provide a stage for dancers to showcase their skills but also contribute to the vibrant performing arts scene at Showplace Performance Centre, aligning with the venue’s mission to present, promote, and sustain the performing arts in the Peterborough community1.
Citations:
- https://showplace.org/about
- https://kawarthanow.com/2017/06/23/showplace-performance-centre-unveils-its-fall-performance-lineup/
- https://www.ptbocanada.com/journal/tag/Premiere+Studio+of+Dance
- https://publicenergy.ca/performance-season/2003-2004/
- https://www.bedazzleddance.com/about
- https://www.showplace.org
- https://www.bedazzleddance.com
- https://shinedance.com/436-2
Community Impact and Ongoing Legacy
Showplace Performance Centre has become an integral part of Peterborough’s cultural fabric. The venue not only hosts touring acts but also provides a platform for local artists and community events.
One such event is the annual “Peterborough Performs” charity concert. The upcoming fifth edition, scheduled for March 26, 2025, will feature 14 local music acts performing on two stages simultaneously to raise awareness and funds to address homelessness in the community5.
The theatre’s founding chair, Beth McMaster, was recently honored with a plaque in the lobby, recognizing her outstanding contributions to the arts in Peterborough3. Her ongoing commitment, including creating fundraising productions like “The Legendary Icon Series,” continues to shape the venue’s impact on the local arts scene.
As Showplace Performance Centre approaches its 30th anniversary, it remains a vital hub for arts and culture in Peterborough, offering a diverse range of entertainment and serving as a testament to the community’s dedication to the performing arts.
Citations:
- https://showplace.org/about
- https://www.setlist.fm/venue/showplace-performance-centre-peterborough-on-canada-13d6011d.html
- https://kawarthanow.com/2024/06/12/peterboroughs-showplace-performance-centre-honours-founding-chair-beth-mcmaster/
- https://kawarthanow.com/2017/03/11/whats-on-at-showplace-spring-2017/
- https://www.uwpeterborough.ca/peterborough-performs/
- https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Attraction_Review-g155008-d2493787-Reviews-Showplace_Performance_Centre-Peterborough_Ontario.html
- https://secure1.tixhub.com/showplace/online/index.asp
- https://kawarthanow.com/2020/08/26/peterborough-performance-venues-and-organizations-take-pandemic-recovery-into-their-own-hands/
- https://ontariosmallhalls.com/showplace/
- https://artelize.com/organization/8193-showplace-performance-centre
- https://peterboroughmoviehistory.com/the-theatres/peterborough-motion-picture-theatres-through-time
- https://www.datanyze.com/companies/showplace-performance-centre/206962945
- https://showplace.org/your-visit
- https://www.ptbotourism.ca/see-do/music-performing-arts/
- https://allevents.in/peterborough/peterborough-showplace-performance-centre/200027213169734
- https://showplace.org
- https://peterboroughmoviehistory.com/the-theatres
