Business Details
35 Years
experience
Premier Live Theatre Experiences in Ontario
Drayton Entertainment is a registered, not-for-profit charitable organization and one of Canada's most successful professional theatre companies. Founded in 1991 with the launch of the Drayton Festival Theatre, we have grown to operate seven venues across five communities in Ontario. Our mission is to deliver unparalleled live theatre experiences while balancing artistic excellence, fiscal responsibility, and community engagement. With over three decades of experience, we produce Broadway musicals, comedies, and dramas that cater to diverse audiences. Our unique business model ensures sustainability, allowing us to reinvest in productions and community initiatives. Recognized as a leader in Canadian arts, we employ over 2,500 professional artists annually and have received six Lieutenant Governor's Awards for the Arts.Our volunteer-driven ethos, supported by 30,000+ annual volunteer hours, underscores our commitment to accessibility, education, and cultural enrichment. We collaborate with industry associations like the Professional Association of Canadian Theatres and Canadian Actors Equity Association to uphold the highest standards. Through partnerships with local businesses and philanthropists, we offer affordable ticketing, educational programs, and community outreach initiatives, including donating 2,000+ tickets annually to charities.
Services
Theatre Productions
Group Bookings
Subscription Packages
Gift Certificates
Dining Packages
Accommodation Deals
Youth Academy
Event Rentals
Community Outreach
Volunteer Programs
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- Canada's largest employer of professional artists with 25+ years of industry leadership
- Sustainable non-profit model reinvests revenue into community arts programs
- Seven unique venues offering diverse theatrical experiences across Ontario
- Recipient of six Lieutenant Governor's Awards for Arts excellence
- Volunteer-driven organization with 30,000+ annual community service hours
Associations and certifications
- Professional Association of Canadian Theatres (PACT)
- Canadian Actors Equity Association (CAEA)
What people say
World-class performances
Stunning venues
Professional casts
Great family outings
Excellent acoustics
Services
Theatre Productions
Drayton Entertainment presents professional theatre productions across seven venues, featuring Broadway musicals, comedies, and dramas. Our shows cater to diverse audiences with rotating seasonal programming. Each production combines professional acting, elaborate sets, and live music to create immersive experiences for theatre-goers of all ages.
Group Bookings
We offer discounted ticket packages for groups of 10+ with benefits including complimentary tickets for organizers, priority seating, and flexible payment options. Group bookings receive dedicated support for coordinating transportation, dining, and accommodation packages to enhance their theatre experience.
Subscription Packages
Our subscription plans provide savings of up to 25% on multiple show tickets, with options to customize your season across different venues. Subscribers enjoy exclusive booking privileges, easy exchange policies, and early access to premium seating selections.
Youth Academy
This educational program offers drama instruction and performance opportunities for young artists. Students receive professional training in acting, singing, and dancing from industry experts, culminating in showcase productions at our main stages.
Venue Rentals
Our historic theatres provide unique venues for weddings, corporate events, and special occasions. Each location offers distinct architectural features, modern technical capabilities, and professional event coordination services to ensure memorable occasions.
People
Alex Mustakas
Founder and CEO
Alex Mustakas founded Drayton Entertainment in 1991 and has led its growth into Canada's largest professional theatre company. With decades of arts leadership, he has received multiple community service awards including the Queen's Jubilee Medal.
Neil Brooker
Board Member
Neil Brooker brings extensive arts and construction industry experience to the board. A former Director of Development, he has performed in multiple productions and received awards for community service and volunteerism.
Brad McCarten
Board Member
Brad McCarten serves as CEO of Mattamy Homes Canada with architectural expertise. A lifelong theatre enthusiast, he contributes strategic leadership to advance Drayton Entertainment's community-focused mission.
John W. D. Lourey
Board Member
John Lourey has held multiple civic leadership roles including Mayor of Mapleton Township. His 30+ years of municipal governance experience strengthen Drayton Entertainment's community engagement and development initiatives.
Willy Heffner
Board Member
Willy Heffner, Vice President of Heffner Lexus Toyota, contributes automotive industry leadership and arts advocacy. He has served on the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony board and promotes community arts investment through his dealership.
Questions
What types of productions does Drayton Entertainment offer?
We present Broadway musicals, comedies, dramas, and youth productions across seven venues. Our programming includes classic favorites, contemporary hits, and original Canadian works.
Are there discounts available for tickets?
Yes! We offer group discounts for 10+ people, student/senior pricing, school matinee rates, and subscription packages with up to 25% savings on multiple shows.
Can I exchange my tickets?
Ticket exchanges are allowed for non-discounted purchases. Contact our box office at least 24 hours before your scheduled performance for exchange options.
What accessibility features are available?
All venues have wheelchair-accessible seating and assistive listening devices. Contact our box office to arrange specific accessibility requirements for your visit.
Do you offer behind-the-scenes experiences?
Yes! Selected performances include post-show Q&A sessions with cast members. Our education programs also offer workshops and backstage tours for theatre enthusiasts.
How can I support Drayton Entertainment?
You can become a member, volunteer over 30,000 annual hours, donate tickets to charities, or contribute to our capital campaigns that sustain professional theatre in Ontario.
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