Professional Theatre in the Heart of the Entertainment District

Magnus Theatre the only professional theatre between Winnipeg and Sudbury

Dr. Penny Petrone was a big supporter of the arts in Thunder Bay

By Chelsea Cameron-Fikis Chelsea Cameron-Fikis is a nature and outdoors enthusiast who is working towards her first novel.

November 28, 2024

The Experience of Live Theatre

One may ask, “Why do people go to see live theatre?” Well, a live theatre experience may help to open our eyes, expand our cultural awareness or broaden our knowledge of the world. Theatre may similarly be an opportunity to relax and laugh, or to get out of the house for a few hours and have fun. However, ultimately live theatre offers its audience members the opportunity to be transported to another world and explore the realms of this dramatized place... if only for a few short hours.

A British director by the name of Burton Lancaster shared this passionate perspective towards live theatrical experiences, and decided to start a brand new theatre company in a vibrant yet cozy city named Thunder Bay, Ontario. Thus Lancaster, with the help of a few influential people in the community successfully remodelled a small run-down Hall in the city's East End neighbourhood to create the Magnus professional theatre company in 1971. Magnus quickly became a supportive community theatre that Northwest Ontario has come to know and love admirably.

Intimate State of the Art Venue

In 2001, Magnus moved its operation to a brand new state-of-the-art theatrical facility, also known as “The Dr. S. Penny Petrone Centre for the Performing Arts. Attached to the historic Port Arthur Central Schoolhouse (which houses the theatres administrative offices), located at the top of the Waterfront Entertainment District, Magnus is just a short walk away from plenty of delicious local restaurants and late-night venues to round out your evening.

With a small venue of 250 seats, Magnus offers a distinct and intimate theatre experience that draws audience members closer into the dramatic world on stage. The stage presentations have a two to three week lifespan with plays running Monday through Saturdays at 8:00 pm, while matinees are held Wednesdays at 12:30 pm and Saturdays at 2:00 pm. Tickets are more than affordable seeing that Magnus offers student and senior discounts, six ticket packages for the whole season, or even dinner and theatre packages! Tickets can be purchased on-line or at the Magnus Theatre Box Office at 807-345-5552.

Supporting the Arts Community

It is also important to understand the vital role Magnus Theatre plays in our local community. Magnus annually employs 60 professional artists of the Canadian Actor’s Equity Association, including actors, directors and designers. In addition to its main stage season, Magnus also puts on touring plays for young and adult audiences, theatre school and educational workshops. The overwhelming support that Magnus receives from individuals and businesses from the Thunder Bay community indicates Magnus’s striking success in Northwest Ontario.

Find the list of all upcoming shows and buy tickets by calling the Magnus Theatre Box Office at 807-345-5552, or visiting their website at www.magnus.on.ca.

Hope to see you at the show!