From a Courthouse to a Playhouse - Saint John Theatre Company’s New Stage for Arts and Culture

The Saint John Theatre Company (SJTC) is in the midst of an ambitious transformation, turning the historic Saint John courthouse into a dynamic new performance venue. 

Serving as a cultural catalyst for the region, the project is set to reshape the arts scene, create local employment opportunities, and offer a space for both professional theatre and community engagement.

While large-scale renovations always come with complexities, the leadership team at SJTC is no stranger to major redevelopment projects, having successfully managed the Princess Street development in 2007. However, unexpected external factors have posed unique challenges.

“The biggest issues we have faced have been external forces beyond our control,” Stephen Tobias, Executive Director of the SJTC explained.

“We shut down operations due to COVID-19 just days after gaining ownership of the property. Then, post-pandemic inflation created budgeting issues, and now, economic disruptions and potential tariffs are adding another layer of uncertainty. That said, we are a resilient team and will roll with these issues as we have in the past.”

Though specific details remain under wraps until formal announcements are made, Tobias notes that support for the project has been overwhelming. 

“We’ve received financial, moral, and political backing, demonstrating a strong desire for this kind of venue in the region.”

A New Era for Saint John’s Arts & Culture Scene

The Courthouse Stage is not just about creating a performance space - it’s about fostering local cultural development.

“For decades, the province and municipalities have invested in venues that showcase artists from other regions. While this has been valuable, there’s been less focus on infrastructure that nurtures homegrown talent,” Tobias said. “The Courthouse Stage will be a space of cultural creation, supporting artists from southern New Brunswick and providing meaningful employment opportunities.”

The theatre will serve as the home base for the Atlantic Repertory Company (ARC), filling a longstanding gap in professional theatre within the city. 

“Before ARC, Saint John was the largest regional municipality in Canada without a thriving professional theatre presence. This project changes that.”

ARC and SJTC’s Courthouse venue is also generating excitement among artists from across the Maritime provinces – creating new audition and performance opportunities. 

Genevive Crowell is SJTC’s Campaign Director. She joined the team in the fall of 2024 and shares how she has experienced first-hand what the Courthouse project will mean for not only residents, but working artists. 

“We've heard from people in Nova Scotia that are just so excited to have more opportunities,” she said. “It’s nice to see the interest that's coming from outside of New Brunswick already for this project.” 

Over its first five years, the Courthouse Stage is expected to host more than 1,000 performances and special events. It will feature extended runs of professionally produced shows, collaborations with regional arts organizations, and rental opportunities for corporate and cultural events.

“Our region desperately needs a professionally managed, mid-sized venue,” Tobias said, pointing to similar spaces in Moncton and Fredericton that have enhanced their respective arts communities. 

“Saint John audiences have been missing out on a range of performances that could thrive in this space.”

Beyond the cultural benefits, the Courthouse Project is set to enhance Saint John’s uptown core, attracting visitors and generating economic activity.

“With ownership and control over multiple performance spaces, we’re exploring new festival opportunities that could bring entirely new cultural experiences to the city,” Tobias said.

A Draw for Young Professionals

As the region works to attract and retain young professionals, the Courthouse Stage will add another layer of vibrancy to the community.

“Creative industries play a major role in making cities attractive places to live,” Tobias explained. “We already have strong employment opportunities for arts managers and marketers, but this project will create direct employment for theatre artists, helping to keep creative talent in the region.”

When asked what success will look like in five years, Tobias envisions “a busy, thriving, sustainable venue, hosting a diverse range of performances, and serving as a go-to option for cultural organizations in southern New Brunswick.” 

For those interested in supporting the Courthouse Project, Tobias encourages reaching out to the team directly. 

“Until formal boards and committees are announced, people can always get in touch with us to discuss ways to contribute.”

If you would like to get involved as a volunteer or supporter of the Courthouse Project, you can connect with Genevieve Crowell at [email protected].