A $130 million entertainment centre at one of the largest Ontario casinos officially has a name.
Dubbed the OLG Stage at Fallsview Casino, the 5,000-seat theatre – which remains under construction – is expected to open this fall.
MGE Niagara Entertainment Inc. (Mohegan), operators of Niagara’s two casinos, and the Ontario Lottery Gaming Corporation (OLG) are behind the operation.
That’s got Niagara Casinos President, Richard Taylor, fired up over the possibilities moving forward.
“The OLG Stage at Fallsview Casino will increase visitation to Niagara, extend hotel stays and enhance our customer experience,” Taylor said. “We have a fabulous lineup of acts in store for Niagara Falls and look forward to announcing the official grand opening performance in the coming weeks.”
OLG Stage opening delayed two-and-a-half years
Construction on the state-of-the-art facility began in 2018 at the Fallsview Casino in Niagara. Back then, the venue was simply named the ‘entertainment centre.’ Originally, projections had the location opening on April 2, 2020.
However, COVID-19 changed those plans.
Niagara Casinos were hit hard, closures ensued and delays happened. But even when operations did resume in 2021, the entertainment centre remained unoccupied despite some shows being announced for the new venue.
Ultimately, they were all either cancelled or moved to Fallsview’s original concert hall, the Avalon Theatre (1,500 seat capacity).
‘Operational requirements’ reason for most recent delay
Today, according to The Review, ‘operational requirements’ including equipment, sound and furniture are stalling the grand debut.
But with the recent naming, there is at least a light at the end of the tunnel.
That, said Ontario’s Minister of Finance Peter Bethlenfalvy, is reason enough to celebrate.
“The gaming and entertainment sector has a proud history in the Niagara region and plays an essential role in Ontario’s economy,” Bethlenfalvy said.
“I want to congratulate OLG and Mohegan on this exciting new partnership, and I look forward to continuing to work with the sector to bring a world-class entertainment experience to Niagara Falls that will benefit the city, help create jobs and generate growth for businesses across the region.”
State-of-the-art sound and lighting systems
Patrons may be asking: So what does the OLG Stage at Fallsview Casino exactly offer?
Here are a few notable items:
- 5,000-seat entertainment centre
- State-of-the-art sound and lighting systems
- Unobstructed views from every seat
- Food and beverage options
- Direct accessibility to Fallsview Casino Resort via new glass enclosed corridor entrance
Avalon Theatre still being occupied for entertainment shows
Unfortunately, OLG and MGE have yet to announce an official grand opening date.
That means the Avalon Theatre – Fallsviews’ current concert hall – is still the place to be for live entertainment shows in the Niagara region.
To that end, American comedian Kathleen Madigan rolls up to Niagara on Sept.10.
The TV personality appeared on Jerry Seinfeld’s series Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee.
From Sept. 21 -30, “The World’s Greatest Irish Dance Show” takes the stage when the Spirit of Dance arrives. Tickets range from $25 – 35 for the event.
Fall entertainment options at other Ontario casinos
Elsewhere in Ontario, Casino Rama (Orillia, ON) has a great fall lineup.
The Price is Right, one of North America’s most famous game shows, comes to town from Sept. 23 – 25. Alongside a chance to win cash and prizes, an unnamed celebrity host will also be present.
Grammy award-winning artist Sarah McLachlan arrives on Nov. 26. McLachlan has sold over 40 million albums worldwide and is one of the more celebrated Canadian artists of her generation.
Hilarity is sure to ensue at Caesars Windsor Casino as a trio of heavy-hitters arrive. Comedians Bill Burr (Oct.6), Sebastian Maniscalco (Oct.22 -23) and Russell Peters (Nov.19) highlight Ontario’s oldest casino’s fall entertainment schedule.
Perhaps the Casino Woodbine is the spot to be for punters that want to enjoy the outdoors before the winter chill. Live thoroughbred races are happening every Thursday – Sunday (excluding Sept. 8) for the rest of the month.
Same Ontario casino launches PlayFallsview app
Those wanting to stay at home this fall can enjoy the online services of at least one land-based casino in the province. Fallsview Casino Resort recently launched its online casino and sportsbook – called PlayFallsview.
