Where to see Summer Theatre in Nova Scotia

History & Culture

All the world’s a stage and Nova Scotia’s no different. After an exciting day exploring Nova Scotia’s sights and sounds find your seat and treat yourself to an evening of fine theatre. From small local productions to adaptations of internationally acclaimed works, Nova Scotia’s many professional theatres offer something for every theatre lover.

Chester Playhouse, Chester

The Chester Playhouse is an iconic venue in the seaside community of Chester that showcases live theatre, music, films, youth programming, and community events.

Two Planks and a Passion, Canning

Situated on 178 acres of farmland at the Ross Creek Centre for the Arts, Two Planks and a Passion Theatre presents its award-winning Theatre Off The Grid. Through a unique combination of nature and the imagination, the company’s presentations feature re-imagined classics and new Canadian work.

Highland Arts Theatre, Sydney

Highland Arts Theatre, or “The HAT” as it’s affectionately called, is the name of a performance venue in downtown Sydney, formerly the home of St. Andrew’s Church. When the church was decommissioned in 2013, the venue was transformed and today boasts entertaining theatrical productions each Thursday, Friday and Saturday during July and August and musical acts and other shows throughout the year.

"The HAT" - Highland Arts theatre — "The HAT" – Highland Arts theatre

Shakespeare By The Sea, Halifax

Atlantic Canada’s premiere classical theatre destination, Shakespeare By the Sea has been performing in Point Pleasant Park since 1994. Over 200,000 audience members have been entertained and delighted by the company’s modern adaptations of Shakespearian classics.

Outdoor play with Shakespeare by the Sea — Shakespeare by the Sea

Theatre Baddeck, Baddeck

If you’re visiting July-October you’ll want to make time for this company’s entertaining productions. Centrally located in the historic Masonic Hall, an enjoyable night of theatre is the perfect way to cap off your day in the Baddeck area or kick off an evening with a matinee on weekends.

Ship’s Company Theatre, Parrsboro

Located in the coastal community of Parrsboro, this professional theatre company has been in operation for more than 30 years. A prime centre for the production and development of Canadian and Atlantic Canadian theatre, locals and visitors alike are entertained by over 75 performances every year.

Festival Antigonish, Antigonish

Established in 1987, Festival Antigonish is held at the Bauer Theatre on the St. Francis Xavier University campus. With a focus on nurturing up-and-coming talent both on and behind the scenes, Festival Antigonish has a commitment to producing high quality, live theatre performances.

Bonus – Neptune Theatre, Halifax

Head to Neptune Theatre in downtown Halifax, Atlantic Canada’s premier destination for live, professional theatre for nearly 60 years to check out Mamma Mia!™ from July 1–August 31, 2025. This fan-favourite, set to the timeless music of ABBA, is a heartwarming story of love, laughter, and friendship.