Streetcar Crowsnest sets the stage for Crow’s Theatre in Leslieville

Photo: Crow's Theatre

After 34 years as a nomadic theatre company, the unveiling of the permanent home for Crow's Theatre in Leslieville has arrived.

Streetcar Crowsnest — the venue's official name, and a nod to the partnership with Streetcar Developments, which gave a flush $1.25-million lead gift to make the venue possible — is kicking off Jan. 12 with a preview of Kristen Thomson's comedy The Wedding Party.

The opening of the $11-million complex puts the east end on the theatre map as the first professional performing arts facility of its kind east of the DVP.

Located at the corner of Dundas St. E and Carlaw Ave. at the base of a Streetcar Developments condo building, the facility will bring the Toronto indie theatre company's award-winning original works to life in Leslieville. Crowsnest will also also host social events and an eclectic line-up of theatre, music, dance, opera, comedy, cabaret and classes for kids.

“When I took over a decade ago, I knew I wanted to do something transformational for the company and the neighbourhood I had come to call home,” says artistic director Chris Abraham. “The new space, the new neighbourhood, the eclectic spirit of our programming and new artistic partnerships reflect this ambition. We want to build a bigger tent. We want to give our growing neighbourhood a whole host of reasons to come through our doors."

The 5,610-square-foot venue has three event spaces including Guloien Theatre, the venue's main theatre with seating for 220 and the flexibility to create an open space. The Studio, which will be used for performances, community programming and events, accommodates 90 people.

Also coming soon is a 65-seat brasserie-style restaurant with an additional 50-seat patio, which will be operated by Erik Joyal and John Sinopoli, the local restaurateurs behind Ascari Enoteca. The restaurant will be open seven days a week, from morning through to pre- and post-theatre dinner.

"Audiences will be able to expect thrilling, provocative, and entertaining theatre productions, but also a range of other activities including must-see touring productions, concerts, monthly cabaret and comedy events and classes for kids.” 

Crow’s Theatre, which has been recognized for its daring productions since it launched in 1983, has rolled out its winter/spring 2017 programming for the first five months in its new venue.

Streetcar Crowsnest will host 11 productions plus guest shows and kids and family activities in its inaugural season.

Visit crowstheatre.com for more information about the venue and upcoming programming.