Part of the arts scene

From the beginning, the Hall upstairs was part of the arts scene.

In 1908 the Picton Amateur Operatic Company rented it and the chorus is seen here in the hall on a stage. Council agreed to fund this as well as better stair access, and seating, for over 500 people.

Picton Amateur Operatic Company No 1 performs in 1908

In 1898 a Mr. Lawrence Hall booked it for commercial shows during which time the Hall was known as “The Bijou Opera House” and offered lavish performances like “The World” in 1900. When the movies arrived, and before the Regent was opened, George Cook leased the hall for movies . “Birth of a Nation” was shown in 1915.

In more recent times the Prince Edward Community Theatre started out as a new company in the hall, with their first play “The Murder Room“.

The long-running “Art in the County” exhibition was held in the hall until 2011, put on by the Prince Edward County Arts Council.

The Town Hall has played its role in creating the vibrant arts community for which the county is now widely recognized.