Fourth Stage

Fourth Stage Ottawa Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction to the Fourth Stage at Ottawa’s National Arts Centre

Located in the heart of downtown Ottawa, the Fourth Stage at the National Arts Centre (NAC) is an intimate performance venue renowned for celebrating Canadian creativity and fostering community engagement. Since its opening in 2001, this 150-seat space has played a pivotal role in Ottawa’s cultural landscape, offering a platform for emerging and established artists in genres such as jazz, folk, spoken word, Indigenous storytelling, and bilingual programming. Its central location on Elgin Street, nestled alongside the UNESCO World Heritage Rideau Canal, makes it a prime destination for both locals and visitors seeking authentic performing arts experiences (The Canadian Encyclopedia, NAC Fourth Stage).

This comprehensive guide outlines everything you need to plan your visit, including history, architecture, hours, ticketing, accessibility features, programming highlights, travel tips, and nearby attractions.

Historical Development of the Fourth Stage
Architectural Features
Visiting Hours, Ticketing, and Travel Tips
Cultural Significance and Programming
Visitor Experience and Amenities
Accessibility
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Nearby Attractions
Plan Your Visit and Stay Connected
Visuals & Media
Sources and Official Links

Historical Development of the Fourth Stage

Origins and Evolution within the NAC

The National Arts Centre (NAC) was established in 1969 as a centennial project marking 100 years of Canadian Confederation. Designed by architect Fred Lebensold, the NAC is a modernist landmark on the Ottawa landscape (The Canadian Encyclopedia). In 2001, the Fourth Stage was introduced to expand the NAC’s community-focused and multidisciplinary programming, with the goal of nurturing new talent, spotlighting local artists, and supporting artistic innovation. The venue’s creation was part of a broader renewal effort, supported by the NAC Foundation, to deepen engagement with Ottawa’s diverse communities and youth (The Canadian Encyclopedia). Today, the Fourth Stage is a vital incubator for the city’s arts scene, hosting everything from jazz and folk concerts to festivals and spoken word events.

Architectural Features

Integration and Design

The Fourth Stage is seamlessly integrated into the NAC’s iconic hexagonal structure, distinguished by its use of concrete, glass, and open, welcoming design. The venue’s compact size—at just 150 seats—creates an intimate atmosphere ideal for acoustic and interactive performances. Configurable seating options include cabaret-style tables or rows, and large street-level windows connect guests to Ottawa’s urban landscape and the scenic Rideau Canal (NAC Venue Info).

Accessibility and Comfort

Accessibility is prioritized throughout the venue: entrances are barrier-free, all but the back row seating is wheelchair accessible, and accessible restrooms are available. The Fourth Stage is equipped with state-of-the-art sound and lighting, ensuring high-quality performance experiences (NAC Accessibility).

Visiting Hours, Ticketing, and Travel Tips

Visiting Hours

The Fourth Stage operates in alignment with scheduled events, typically opening doors 30–60 minutes before showtime. There are no fixed daily hours—guests should consult the NAC’s official event listings for up-to-date schedules.

Ticket Information

General Admission: All events are general admission. Arrive early for preferred seating.
Prices: Tickets generally range from $15 to $50, with some special events or festivals priced higher or offered as pay-what-you-can (todoCanada.ca).
How to Buy: Purchase online via the NAC website, by phone, or at the box office (open Monday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; hours may vary during festivals).
Discounts: Many events offer reduced rates for students, seniors, and youth. Some community events are free, especially during festivals (ConcertFix Ottawa).

Travel Tips

Public Transit: Multiple OC Transpo bus routes stop nearby; Parliament and Rideau LRT stations are within walking distance (NAC Accessibility).
Parking: Paid underground parking is available at the NAC (Sections K-L, P2 level). No direct indoor access—exit to Elgin Street for venue entry.
Cycling: Bike racks are available outside.
Accessibility Drop-Off: A drop-off layby is available on Elgin Street, close to the main entrance.

Cultural Significance and Programming

Community Engagement and Artistic Innovation

The Fourth Stage is celebrated for its inclusive approach, curating events that reflect Ottawa’s multicultural and bilingual identity. Programming highlights include:

NAC Presents: Showcasing Canadian musicians from folk, jazz, and world genres.
Indigenous and Francophone Series: Regular performances feature Indigenous and French-language artists, supporting Ottawa’s diverse communities.
Festivals: The venue is a key site during the Ottawa Jazz Festival, Ottawa Fringe Festival, Capital Music Week, and Le Projecteur series (Ottawa Music Industry Coalition).
Artist Development: Many performers, such as William Prince, Alex Cuba, and Lisa Leblanc, have advanced from the Fourth Stage to larger venues (NAC Stories).

Special Events and Community Partnerships

Collaborations with organizations such as the Ottawa Music Industry Coalition and the City of Ottawa’s Nightlife Office ensure robust community engagement. Notable events include the Canada After Dark panel and performances by The OSTARA Project and other acclaimed Canadian artists (Ottawa Music Industry Coalition, Ottawa Citizen).

Visitor Experience and Amenities

Atmosphere and Setting

Guests enjoy an inviting, community-oriented space with excellent acoustics, cabaret seating, and a relaxed vibe. Large windows offer ample natural light during the day and an urban ambiance at night (NAC Venue Info).

Food and Beverage

Bar Service: Available at most events.
On-Site Dining: The 1 Elgin restaurant offers contemporary Canadian cuisine; reservations recommended (NAC Accessibility).
Café: Equator Coffee provides coffee and light fare in the NAC complex.

Additional Amenities

Free public Wi-Fi
Accessible and universal restrooms on every level
Seasonal coat check
Rooftop terrace (seasonal and accessible)

Accessibility

The Fourth Stage is fully accessible:

Wheelchair access with no stairs to performance hall
Accessible restrooms and seating
Assistive listening devices available upon request
Tactile signage with Braille throughout the NAC (Ottawa Accessibility Standards)
Support persons and service animals welcome
Para Transpo service available for eligible visitors
Guests with specific needs should contact House Management in advance for assistance (NAC Accessibility)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Fourth Stage visiting hours?
A: The venue operates during scheduled events. Doors open 30–60 minutes before showtime. Check the NAC website for event-specific times.

Q: How can I buy Fourth Stage tickets?
A: Purchase online, by phone, or at the box office. Advance purchase is recommended due to limited seating.

Q: Is the Fourth Stage accessible?
A: Yes, the venue is fully wheelchair accessible and offers assistive listening devices.

Q: Are there food and drink options?
A: Yes, bar service is available at most events, and the NAC has a full-service restaurant and café.

Q: Which public transit options serve the NAC?
A: OC Transpo buses and Ottawa’s LRT (Parliament and Rideau stations) are close by.

Q: Are there discounts for students or seniors?
A: Many events offer discounted tickets; check the event listing for details.

Q: Are there family-friendly events?
A: Yes, especially during festivals and community programming.

Nearby Attractions

Parliament Hill
ByWard Market
Canadian Museum of History
Rideau Canal
Confederation Park

All are within a short walk, offering opportunities to combine your visit to the Fourth Stage with other cultural and historical experiences (o.canada.com, The Planet D).