Behind the curtain

Learn more about the City Playhouse Theatre

The City of Vaughan manages more than 90 different properties, facilities and buildings including community centres, fire stations, heritage sites and more. But have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes to make these spaces ready for the community?  

We’re pulling back the curtain on our City facilities. Let’s take a look at the City Playhouse Theatre.

For three decades, the City Playhouse Theatre has been a place where stories come alive, talent takes the stage and the community comes together. Since opening its doors in 1996, this beloved cultural cornerstone has hosted thousands of performances and events – from dance recitals and theatre productions to operas and comedy shows, and even bodybuilding competitions – creating lasting memories for audiences of all ages.

Located at 102-1000 New Westminster Dr., this facility represents the City’s commitment to cultural vitality, inclusivity and environmental sustainability. The 386-seat theatre is fully accessible, and includes a modernized dual Wi-Fi/FM hybrid assisted listening system, meaning people with hearing loss can connect their own assistive devices in whatever way is most convenient. 

The theatre has undergone upgrades focused on making the facility more energy efficient, including converting more than 80 per cent of the theatrical lighting system into LED fixtures, which not only creates energy savings, but also enhances performances by adding colour features not available with traditional lighting fixtures.

Celebrating 30 years!

This year marks 30 years of the City Playhouse Theatre. On March 12, the City celebrated the occasion with a free Open House – and it was a real show-stopper! Guests enjoyed official remarks from Mayor Steven Del Duca, performances by Aaron the Magician and the K-Pop Demon Hunters, a meet-and-greet and more. The Open House was the first in a series of events planned throughout 2026 to honour the legacy and impact the City Playhouse Theatre has had on the community. Upcoming events include:  

• PJ Palooza
  • Date: Thursday, Oct. 29
  • Details: A lively show with songs and choreography; guests are encouraged to wear pajamas or Halloween costumes
  • Admission: Nominal ticket fee, with 100 per cent of proceeds donated to RecAssist 

• Battle of the Bands
  • Date: Fall – details to come
  • Details: Local bands compete live for a prize
  • Admission: Nominal ticket fee

You’re invited to help us commemorate the theatre’s legacy by sharing personal stories or reflections, favourite memories as an audience member or performer, and photos that capture special moments at the theatre. Submissions are collected and displayed online in a real-time gallery for all to enjoy!

To learn more about the City Playhouse Theatre, visit vaughan.ca/CityPlayhouse or watch this video.  

City facilities are maintained by the Facility Management Operations department, which makes sure they run safely, efficiently and meet City standards. Their goal is to bring people, spaces, technology and processes together, and to keep all City facilities working smoothly for the community. Learn more on the Facility Management Operations webpage.

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