The Orillia Opera House Story

In 1978 the structure was designated under the Ontario Heritage Act

Today, the Orillia Opera House brings us amazing performances from local Canadian talent. In the beginning (1895) comedy, theatre and entertainment was the furthest from the services offered at the Orillia Opera House. Would you believe this amazing historic building once served as Orillia’s police headquarters, jail and municipal office?

After about 20 years (1914) a tragic fire engulfed the building, destroying the roof and the majority of the interior.

It took about 2 years to rebuild and repair the building.

The Opera House went on to house the Orillia city council chamber. There was a City Hall name plate placed on the building before the City was named Orillia.

Today the building is used for theatre, entertainment and comedy. The supreme acoustics keep its audience deeply indulged in performances.

Opera House Past Performers

• Anne Murray
• Barra Macneils
• Bleeker Ridge
• Blue Rodeo
• Bob Hope
• Bruce Cockburn
• Dan Hill
• Glenn Gould
• Gordon Lightfoot
• Great Big Sea
• Hank Snow
• Holly Cole
• Ian And Sylvia Tyson
• John Mcdermott
• K.D. Lang
• Leonard Cohen
• Lighthouse And The Stampeders
• Liona Boyd
• Mickey Rooney
• Murray Mclauchlan
• Oliver Jones
• Oscar Peterson
• Pavlo
• Peter Appleyard
• Rita Macneil
• Robert Munsch
• Ron James
• Serena Ryde
• Stephen Leacock
• The Marx Brothers
• Tommy Hunter

2012 Orillia Opera House Line Up

In the summer of 2012, it’s time to Laugh out Loud in the Orillia Opera House. With countless award winning performances, theatre fans will not want to miss this summer’s line up of theatre, dance and comedy. Get ready to Laugh out Loud at Orillia’s Opera House with local and Canadian talent.

This year’s performances cover entertainment for all ages.

Book your hotel theatre package at Orillia’s only luxury boutique hotel today!

Tags: Theater