Sound, other issues delay theatre’s opening
New 5,000-seat building connected to Fallsview Casino Resort still awaiting first concert
When it comes to Fallsview Casino Resort’s still unused new theatre, it’s better to cancel shows than make a bad first impression.
That’s how Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corp. views the long delay in opening the 5,000-seat Fallsview Casino Entertainment Centre, which has sat empty on Stanley Avenue while the casino continues to book shows in its smaller Avalon Theatre.
In a written statement to The Review, OLG said it is working with Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment (operators of the city’s two casinos) and other partners to address “operational requirements” before hosting events.
These include “finalizing building equipment, furniture and fixtures, testing and training.”
OLG also revealed the venue is still working on how the new facility sounds.
“This includes optimizing the acoustics of the hall to ensure the facility is performance-ready for the top-tier acts the NFEC will host.”
OLG stressed the building was never fully completed before the start of the pandemic in March 2020.
The first concert in the venue was scheduled to be country singer Brad Paisley on April 2, 2020, before all casino shows were cancelled.
Once COVID-19 restrictions were loosened, Fallsview announced a handful of shows for the new venue starting in the spring.
But the casino’s website now says all events at the venue are “currently paused.”
The $140-million facility began construction in 2018. It’s next to the Hilton Hotel, facing Stanley Avenue.
Asked about the delay in the theatre opening, Niagara Casinos president Richard Taylor said it was “subject to ongoing work with our partners.”
Mayor Jim Diodati said he has received assurances from OLG that the venue is aiming for a September opening.
“The premier (Doug Ford) gave them implicit instructions — get this place opened up,” he said. “I’ve complained to the premier a number of times. I’ve said, ‘This is ridiculous, we have an empty theatre. A $140-million theatre that’s doing nothing for anybody, it’s just taking up space.’ He gets it, he understands.
“We should have already enjoyed dozens of shows in this place and they’re still months away from being open.”