About

The History

The FLATO Academy Theatre was built in the spring of 1892. Designed by architect W. Blackwell of Peterborough, two citizens of the town, R. J. Matchett and Fred Knowlton, spearheaded its building.

When the theatre doors opened in 1893, it was billed as the most technically perfect theatre in Canada. With seating for 900 people, there was one balcony and one dress circle, with VIP boxes on either side of the stage. The stage measured 38 by 44 feet, and the proscenium height was 28 feet. A fly gallery was 22 feet above the stage and a rigging gallery reached 48 feet.

At that time, there were 3 furnaces in the building, which needed to be fed coal constantly. This required a couple to live in the theatre on the third floor, in an apartment. According to legend, it is said that one day, the lady of this couple rushed down from the third floor stairs and fell and sadly, died. It is said to be her spirit that inhabits the theatre. To this day, “Mary”, as she has affectionately been named, is a friendly but mischievous “ghost” who mysteriously moves things, then puts them back, lowers the lights or opens and closes doors. Staff and patrons alike often have their own “Mary” story to share.

It was in this theatre that Marie Dressler made her first stage appearance at the age of 5, in an amateur play organized by her mother. As part of the vaudeville circuit in the early 1900s, the Academy hosted a young Sammy Davis Jr. and the Marx Brothers as well.

Around 1918, silent movies also began to be played and later, in 1923, talking films were added. One of the projectors is found today in the Highlands Cinemas in Kinmount, part of the vast collection of movie memorabilia owned by Keith Stata. Another was donated to the Ontario Science Centre back in 1986.

In 1953 the theatre’s owner Mr. Meehan faced hard times with the opening of the new movie show-house, The Century Theatre. Some live shows continued, such as the Kiwanis Musicals, but over the next ten years it was often closed and eventually was put up for sale.

In 1963 the Academy Theatre Foundation was formed and bought the theatre for $18,000. The founding President was Dr. Bill Service. Assisted by the Mayor, Rotary and Kiwanis Clubs, another $40,000 was raised to renovate the lobby, the office space, and the stage. The apron was added to the front of the stage, along with some lights. New furnaces were added and the old coal ones were removed.

Shortly after this revival of the theatre, in 1965, Kawartha Summer Theatre began and the beloved and respected Dennis and Maggie Sweeting spent their first summer here, producing Summer Stock. The opening show was “Charlie’s Aunt”. The Women’s Guild also started their valuable work hosting receptions, raising funds and ushering. Country Music Legend Tommy Hunter presented his show every Friday night from the Academy for about three summers, to bring more fame to the theatre.

Staff

Behind the scenes is a small, dedicated staff and management team who keep this historic theatre running day in and day out. From front-of-house to technical crew, administration to marketing — The Flato Academy Theatre staff work tirelessly to ensure every show, event, and experience runs smoothly. This close-knit group wears many hats — ensuring the theatre remains a vibrant hub for arts and culture in our community.

With passion, professionalism, and heart, they bring the stage to life day after day.

Victoria Shepherd

GENERAL MANAGER
Alan Cottreau

OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR
Vangi Patton

ASSISTANT MANAGER
Dylan-John Garton

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR
Jess Spagnolo

MARKETING & SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Board Of Directors

The Flato Academy Theatre is guided by a dedicated and passionate Board of Directors who share a deep commitment to arts, culture, and community. With diverse backgrounds in business, education, the arts, and public service, our board members work collaboratively to support the theatre’s vision, ensure responsible governance, and help shape a vibrant future for live performance in our region. Their leadership plays a vital role in preserving the legacy of the theatre while championing growth, innovation, and community connection.