Stratford was destined for theatrical greatness as soon as the town was named after the birthplace of one of the most revered playwrights of all time, William Shakespeare, so it’s no surprise the Festival Theatre’s history is dramatic, heart-warming and, ultimately, one that marks the transformation of the town into a cultural hub of world-class theatre.
Who Founded the Stratford Festival?
The Origin of the Stratford Festival Theatre
When was Festival Theatre Stratford built? The answer begins in the early 1950s, with a local visionary.
Tom Patterson grew up in the heart of Stratford, playing in its famous Shakespearean Gardens and walking along the Avon River. From a young age, Tom recognized the importance of the Bard to the town, and he wanted to amplify that connection by positioning Stratford as the go-to place for theatre in the area.
How the Idea of the Stratford Theatre Gained Support
In 1951, he approached Mayor Simpson about the possibility of erecting a theatre where actors could perform Shakespearean greats and the townspeople could spend their time – and money – gaining an appreciation for the arts. Luckily, the Mayor recognized the economic and cultural potential of Patterson’s idea and a committee of prominent Stratford citizens came together to push the idea forward, laying the foundation for what would soon become the Stratford Shakespearean Festival of Canada.
When Was Stratford Festival Theatre Built?
Bringing Global Theatre Legends to Stratford
In 1952, the group, which was affectionately named the Stratford Shakespearean Festival of Canada Foundation, solicited the help of Tyrone Guthrie – a world-renowned director from Ireland. Guthrie was enticed by the creative freedom the committee was willing to allow him to champion the construction of the theatre. Under his guidance, designer Tanya Moiseiwitsch and leading actor Alec Guinness were signed on. Subsequently, leading actress Irene Worth also joined the not-so-motley crew. These major players, who were all at the height of their careers, helped legitimize the theatre and create further excitement around its production.
The Original Tent Theatre: 1953 Opening
The structure, which opened its doors in 1953, was originally a concrete amphitheatre with a tent roof. This design lasted for the theatre’s first four seasons.
Transition to a Permanent Structure
In 1956, the tent came down and the building of a permanent structure began. Originally designed to resemble both a classic Greek amphitheatre and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, the construction of the Festival Theatre required the incredible dedication and hard work of Gaffney Construction and 150 workers.
The Completed Theatre: June 30, 1957
By June 30, 1957, the theatre was complete with seating for 2,276 and the designer, Robert Fairfield, maintained the integrity of the tent design – making the Festival Theatre’s architecture as famous as the acting taking place inside.
The Legacy of Exceptional Art and Passion Continues
Over the past several decades, the Festival Theatre has continued to be renovated to better reflect the needs of its patrons. The 1,826 seats at the Festival Theatre aren’t enough to contain the passion and excitement of the theatregoers who travel from across Canada, the United States and even Britain to see the incredible performances that take place on its hallowed stage.
How long is the Stratford Festival season?
The Stratford Festival runs annually from April to October, attracting hundreds of thousands of attendees across its various stages. This year, a few Stratford Festival performances have been extended as far as December.
What Venues are a Part of Stratford Festival Theatre?
The Festival now includes four permanent venues:
- Festival Theatre
- Avon Theatre
- Tom Patterson Theatre
- Studio Theatre
While Shakespeare remains central to its programming, the Festival has expanded to include classic dramas, modern plays, and musicals, ensuring that theatre lovers of all tastes feel welcome.
Why Visit Stratford Festival Theatre?
The Stratford Festival Theatre isn’t just a stage – it’s a symbol of Canada’s artistic innovation, community spirit, and deep appreciation for Shakespearean and contemporary storytelling. As one of the most important cultural landmarks in Stratford, the theatre has hosted performances that have shaped Canadian theatre history and launched international careers.
What sets it apart is the unique origin of the Stratford Festival Theatre: a grassroots idea from a local dreamer that grew into an internationally acclaimed event. With a thrust stage modeled after Shakespeare’s Globe, an annual season featuring award-winning talent, and a loyal following of theatre enthusiasts, it’s easy to see why so many people travel from across Canada and the globe to be part of the experience.
Whether you’re curious about when the Festival Theatre Stratford was built, or you’re a longtime fan of the Bard, the Stratford Festival offers a rich blend of heritage and modern creativity that you can’t find anywhere else.
Plan Your Trip to Stratford Festival Theatre and Come Be a Part of Stratford’s Rich History
Treat yourself to a theatre weekend in Stratford that also includes beautiful accommodations, elevated comfort food and the charm of a town that loves the arts enough to build, protect and promote the vitality of Canada’s theatrical epicentre.