City cancels events at flood-damaged Meridian theatre until end of 2026

Advertisement 1 This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Breadcrumb Trail Links HomeNewsLocal News City cancels events at flood-damaged Meridian theatre until end of 2026 'Considerable damage' confirmed on main stage, orchestra pit and front rows of seating Author of the article: By Norman Provencher Published Jul 31, 2026 Last updated 2 hours ago 1 minute read Join the conversation Meridian Centrepointe Theatre shares a municipal building with Nepean Public Library. PHOTO BY WAYNE CUDDINGTON /THE OTTAWA CITIZEN / POSTMEDIA Article content Add the Meridian Theatres at Centrepointe to the list of properties damaged in Ottawa’s Canada Day storms. Article content In a letter to city council, Dan Chenier, general manager of recreation, cultural and facility services, said that shows at the west-end centre are cancelled until the end of the year due to the devastating precipitation. Article content Article content Staff said water infiltration caused “considerable damage” to the main theatre stage, the orchestra pit and front rows of seating, the studio theatre, orchestra, the lower studio and lobby, flooring and a grand piano. Article content Article content “Due to the specialized nature of the theatre spaces and equipment, damage assessment is taking some time to complete and is ongoing,” Chenier reported. Article content The Evening Citizen The Ottawa Citizen’s best journalism, delivered directly to your inbox by 7 p.m. on weekdays. Sign Up By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. Interested in more newsletters? Browse here. Article content “A timeline for development of a restoration plan and its completion has not yet been determined.” Article content Staff are contacting all “shows, events and rentals through the end of the year (to offer) refunds and assistance in identifying alternative venues” such as the Shenkman Arts Centre in Orléans. Article content In addition, ticketholders will be offered refunds. Article content “The status of booked performances scheduled after (the end of the year) will be reassessed in the fall as restoration planning progresses,” Chenier said. Article content “We recognize that this temporary closure is disappointing for patrons, staff, artists, and supporters. Meridian Theatres at Centrepointe is an important cultural facility that contributes to the City of Ottawa’s arts sector, and staff are working to restore…