Regent Theatre

Regent Theatre Toronto: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Regent Theatre is a distinguished historical and cultural landmark in Toronto’s Mount Pleasant neighbourhood. Since its opening in 1927 as the Belsize Theatre, it has evolved from a vaudeville and silent film venue to a pivotal Canadian stage and cinema, and is now undergoing a major revival. This guide provides detailed and up-to-date information for visitors—including history, cultural significance, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and local highlights—ensuring you get the most out of your experience at this iconic Toronto site (Mount Pleasant Village; UrbanToronto; BlogTO).

Historical Background
Recent Restoration and Vision
Visiting the Regent Theatre
Programming and Events
Location, Accessibility, and Visitor Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Cultural Significance and Community Impact
Conclusion and Visitor Recommendations
Further Resources and Official Links

Historical Background

Early Years: The Belsize Theatre (1927–1950)

The Regent Theatre began its life as the Belsize Theatre in 1927, designed by Murray Brown for Famous Players. It quickly became a community hub, hosting vaudeville acts and silent films, and was among Toronto’s first theatres to offer air conditioning. Its Edwardian Classical façade and charming interior details have remained defining features (Mount Pleasant Village; City of Toronto).

Crest Theatre Era: Championing Canadian Talent (1954–1966)

In 1954, the theatre was reborn as the Crest Theatre, focusing on live Canadian performances and helping launch numerous careers in acting and playwriting. The Crest Theatre Company’s innovative programming played a major role in Toronto’s performing arts scene and is remembered as a golden era for Canadian stage (City of Toronto).

Return to Cinema and the Regent Theatre (1966–2021)

After the Crest era, the building returned to cinema, eventually being renamed the Regent Theatre in 1988. It became known for an eclectic mix of new releases, classics, and offbeat films, retaining its vintage ambiance while introducing modern audio-visual systems (Cinema Treasures).

Heritage Status and Community Recognition

The Regent Theatre was added to Toronto’s Heritage Register in 1984 and formally designated under the Ontario Heritage Act in 2022, a testament to its enduring architectural and cultural importance (Toronto Preservation Board).

Recent Restoration and Vision

The Regent Revival Project

In 2022, Terra Bruce Productions acquired the Regent Theatre for $7.4 million, launching a comprehensive restoration aimed at blending heritage conservation with cutting-edge performance technology. Led by NORR Architects and Hariri Pontarini Architects, the project features:

A 600-seat auditorium with orchestra pit and two balconies
Innovative moving seating platforms for flexible events
Restored Edwardian façade and original interior plasterwork
State-of-the-art sound, lighting, and stage mechanics
Barrier-free access throughout the building
Expanded rehearsal, community, and public spaces

The revival is set to position the Regent as a modern, multi-purpose arts hub for Midtown Toronto (BlogTO; Mount Pleasant Village; Storeys).

Community Support and Challenges

The restoration has strong backing from local councillors and residents, who value the theatre as a community anchor. While some local concerns have been raised about parking and neighbourhood impact, broad consensus recognizes the theatre’s vital cultural and economic role (Streets of Toronto; UrbanToronto).

Visiting the Regent Theatre

Visiting Hours

The Regent Theatre’s hours are determined by scheduled performances and events. The box office usually opens one hour before showtime and closes 30 minutes after performances begin. For the most accurate and current schedule, consult the official Regent Theatre calendar.

Tickets and Booking

Tickets can be purchased online through the official Regent Theatre calendar, by phone, or in person at the box office. Prices vary by event and seat type. Advance booking is recommended, as popular events often sell out.

Accessibility

The Regent Theatre is dedicated to inclusivity, offering wheelchair-accessible entrances, designated seating, and accessible restrooms. Assistance for patrons with disabilities is available upon request (Toronto Preservation Board).

Programming and Events

The Regent Theatre hosts a wide variety of programming, including:

Live concerts and tribute shows (e.g., ABBA, Rod Stewart, Motown Soul)
Cultural and dance performances (e.g., Festival of Indian Dances)
Comedy and spoken word tours
Classic movie nights
Community and educational events

Family-friendly pricing, student discounts, and occasional free children’s admission make the theatre accessible to all (Toronto Theatre).

Location, Accessibility, and Visitor Tips

Getting There

Located at 551 Mt. Pleasant Road, the theatre is accessible via TTC subway (Eglinton station), buses, and is a short walk from Davisville. Street parking is limited; public transit or ride-sharing is recommended (Ontario Away).

Regent Theatre Location Map
Alt text: Map showing Regent Theatre location at 551 Mt. Pleasant Road, Toronto.

Visitor Tips

Book tickets in advance through the official calendar.
Arrive early to secure good seats and enjoy the theatre’s atmosphere.
Bring cash for concessions.
Check accessibility needs in advance.
Explore Mount Pleasant Village for local dining and shopping.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the Regent Theatre’s visiting hours?
Visiting hours depend on the event schedule; the box office typically opens one hour before showtime. Check the official Regent Theatre calendar for details.

How do I buy tickets?
Tickets are available online, by phone, or at the box office during event hours.

Is the theatre wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the theatre offers barrier-free access throughout the building.

Are there discounts for children and students?
Yes, many events offer free or discounted admission with valid ID.

Are guided tours available?
Guided tours may be offered during special events—consult the theatre’s website for updates.

Cultural Significance and Community Impact

The Regent Theatre is more than a performance space. It is a symbol of Midtown Toronto’s resilience, diversity, and commitment to the arts. Its ongoing restoration ensures it remains a vibrant venue for generations, supporting local artists, enriching community life, and fostering cultural tourism (UrbanToronto; Streets of Toronto).

Conclusion and Visitor Recommendations

The Regent Theatre exemplifies the harmonious blend of historical preservation and modern cultural innovation. Its storied past, dynamic current programming, and visionary restoration make it a must-visit for anyone interested in Toronto’s arts and heritage. For the latest visiting hours, tickets, and events, check the official Regent Theatre calendar and consider downloading the Audiala app for personalized recommendations and exclusive content.