9 Best Performing Arts in New Brunswick, Canada

Saint John's theater, opera, ballet, and symphony productions, along with touring bands and comedians, take place at this beautifully restored theater—and the 1912 vaudeville venue offers the most comprehensive programming in Atlantic Canada. Tours (C$2) are available from May through August during regular business hours, or by appointment September through April.

A wide range of entertainment is staged at this fine theater next door to the provincial legislature, including international comedians and musicians, tribute bands, and cultural performances by Symphony New Brunswick, Theatre New Brunswick, and traveling ballet and dance companies.

There's occasional live music at this pub, including rock bands, acoustic acts, and singer-songwriters—and the food's good, too. On St. Patrick's Day there's often traditional Celtic music.

Moncton's C$100-million-plus downtown events center is home to the Wildcats ice hockey team, and a variety of events, including concerts and comedy shows, are held in the 8,800-seat arena. The box office is open 9--6 weekdays year-round and additionally from 10 to noon Saturday from September through April. Tickets also may be purchased via Ticketmaster.ca.

For more than 40 years, Calithumpians has continued to delight family audiences with its shows about local history, folklore, and legend as well as modern social and environmental issues, always tinged with humor. Free outdoor performances run daily July through early September (12:15 pm weekdays, 2 pm weekends) in Officers' Square, and at 4:30 outside the Guard House.

A restored 1920s vaudeville stage, the opulent Capitol Theatre is a beautiful attraction in itself as well as a venue for plays, musicals, ballets, stand-up comedy, and concerts. Free tours are given when guides are available; call ahead.

Occasional classical musical events include a Summer Classics Series and an Early Music Festival in May. The center also houses several art galleries and runs arts and crafts workshops for all ages.

This hockey arena, home of the Sea Dogs, also hosts musical events, including big-name rock acts like Aerosmith and Guns N' Roses; comedians such as Jerry Seinfeld and John Cleese; shows like Riverdance and Mamma Mia!; and shows for children, such as Paw Patrol Live!.