At our boutique hotel, The Barracks Inn, we’re often asked by guests about the best things to do in Ancaster, Ontario. Learn why the Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre is always on our shortlist, and discover what great events are happening this season in our historic village.
We feel very fortunate to live in a village full of charming shops, delicious restaurants, and breathtaking natural beauty, but our arts scene is truly what sets us apart—the Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre (AMAC) is at the heart of it all.
AMAC is located in Ancaster’s Heritage Village, and this modern facility reflects the community’s dedication to both heritage and a vibrant cultural future. Supporting the vision for a walkable, liveable village, the Centre hosts local arts groups and professional performances.
Better yet, it’s a community group funded by community support. As we look ahead to Winter 2025, the Ancaster Memorial Arts Center’s calendar is already shaping up nicely, with a captivating lineup that caters to a diverse range of tastes from theatre to music and more.
Book your next stay at The Barracks Inn and start planning with this Winter 2025 Ancaster events calendar to help you get started.
A Glimpse into the AMAC’s Winter 2025 Calendar
January
Theatre Ancaster Presents Kiss Me, Kate: In Concert
Friday, January 17, 2025
In this classic musical battle of the sexes, you get a “play-within-a-play” that blends Shakespeare with witty humour and memorable songs. This event is perfect for a fun and engaging night out as you watch a fictitious theatre company attempt to stage Shakespeare’s “Taming of the Shrew” while the lead actors, a divorced couple, mirror the play’s fiery relationship off-stage.
Lee
Monday, January 20, 2025
This award-winning film covers a pivotal decade of the iconic American war correspondent and photographer Lee Miller, played by Kate Winslet. Watch her extraordinary journey capturing some of the 20th century’s most impactful images of war in a male-dominated field.
Goodrich
Monday, January 20, 2025
Michael Keaton stars in this film about Andy Goodrich, a man whose wife enters rehab, leaving him to care for their nine-year-old twins on his own. His journey is funny and heartwarming as he navigates single fatherhood and reconnects with his estranged adult daughter.
Theatre Ancaster Stage 2 Presents: Disney’s Mary Poppins JR.
Friday, January 31, 2025
Enjoy the magic of Disney live with this junior production of the beloved musical, “Mary Poppins.” Join the Banks family as their world is transformed by their friendly, eccentric nanny, Mary Poppins. It’s a family-friendly show filled with memorable songs like “A Spoonful of Sugar” and “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.” Ideal for families with children.
February
Texture in Landscape Painting (Wednesday Day Class)
Wednesdays, February 5 to March 12, 2025, 1 pm – 4 pm
Unleash your inner artist in this six-week acrylic painting course! Explore the creation of texture and depth in landscape painting, using your chosen subject matter as inspiration. Learn techniques in brushwork, colour mixing, and composition to develop your style and experiment freely. All materials are provided, making it a perfect class for beginners and those looking to refine their skills.
Ian Thomas, Fumbling With Inspiration: A Memoir in Songs and Stories
Friday, February 7, 2025
Enjoy an intimate and unforgettable evening with Canadian music icon and hometown legend Ian Thomas. This is a special benefit concert for the Carnegie Gallery, featuring a blend of his beloved hits and personal anecdotes on his creative journey and life experiences. It’s a must-see for fans and those who appreciate insightful storytelling through music.
Gershwin & Love Songs
Tuesday, February 11, 2025
Celebrate Valentine’s Day early with a concert dedicated to the timeless music of George Gershwin and other classic love songs. Featuring the talents of celebrated baritone John Fanning, enchanting mezzo-soprano Ariana Chris, and renowned pianist Ken Gee, this performance will be an evening of beautiful melodies.
One and Two-Point Perspective Drawing
Thursdays, February 20 & 27, 2025, 1 pm – 3 pm
Master the art of perspective in this two-day drawing course. You can learn how to create the illusion of depth and space in your artwork with one-point and two-point perspective techniques. Through expert guidance, you’ll work with pencil, charcoal, and conte crayon to develop your skills. All materials are included, making it a great opportunity for beginners and experienced artists.
Theatre Ancaster Stage 3 Presents: Disney’s The Little Mermaid
Friday, February 21, 2025
Dive “Under the Sea” with this stage adaptation of Disney’s animated classic, “The Little Mermaid.” Follow Ariel, a young mermaid who dreams of life on land, as she embarks on a daring adventure. Featuring beloved songs like “Part of Your World” and “Kiss the Girl,” this production is a treat for families and all-age audiences.
March
Negative Space Watercolour Painting
Tuesday, March 4, 2025, 1 pm – 3 pm
Discover the power of negative space in this one-day watercolour workshop. Learn how to utilize the unpainted areas of your composition to enhance the subject and create a more dynamic and engaging artwork. Explore various watercolour techniques and develop your own artistic style in a supportive environment. All materials are included.
Texture in Landscape Painting (Thursday Evening Class)
Thursdays, March 6 to April 10, 2025, 6:15 pm – 8:30 pm
This six-week evening course will help you delve into the world of landscape painting with acrylics. Much like the Wednesday daytime class, you’ll focus on creating texture and depth using your own chosen landscape. Learn the art of brushwork, colour mixing, and composition techniques to bring your artistic vision to life. All materials are provided.
Theatre Ancaster Classics Presents: The Surprise Party
Friday, March 7, 2025
Enjoy an evening of laughter and suspense with this farcical comedy. When Jack’s surprise party takes a dark turn, a series of mishaps leads to his untimely death, and everyone present becomes a suspect. This witty and engaging play will keep you guessing until the very end.
March Break Magic Series
Monday, March 10 – Friday, March 14, 2025
Make this March Break unforgettable with a week of magical entertainment at the AMAC! This series offers a variety of shows and activities perfect for families with children aged 4-11.
- Magic Mel: Monday, March 10, 2025 @ 1 pm – Prepare to be amazed by Magic Mel’s interactive magic show, filled with illusions and hilarious comedy.
- Despicable Me 4: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 @ 1 pm – Enjoy a special screening of the latest installment in the “Despicable Me” franchise. Gru and his Minions are back for another animated adventure!
- Tim Holland: The Stunt Ventriloquist: Wednesday, March 12, 2025 @ 1 pm – Enjoy an afternoon of ventriloquism, daring stunts, and comedy with Tim Holland’s one-of-a-kind performance.
- Inside Out 2: Thursday, March 13, 2025 @ 1 pm – Enjoy a return to Riley’s emotional world in this sequel to the hit Pixar film, “Inside Out.”
- TEAM T&J’s Kids Jumpin’ Jamboree: Friday, March 14, 2025 @ 1 pm – Get ready to dance and sing along with TEAM T&J in this high-energy, interactive concert designed for kids.
March Break Magic: All-Access Pass: Get access to all five March Break Magic events at a discounted price.
Anagnoson & Kinton
Monday, March 17, 2025
Enjoy the talent of James Anagnoson and Leslie Kinton, one of the world’s finest piano duos. Renowned for their captivating performances and incredible technique, they will present a program of classical masterpieces to enjoy.
Sinfonia Ancaster presents Sinfonia Masala
Friday, March 21, 2025
Embark on a fun musical journey with the latest on this Sinfonia Ancaster schedule. This concert features Reena Esmail’s “Sinfonia Masala,” a glorious composition celebrating sisterhood across cultures, performed by two sopranos with distinct musical styles. The program also includes Dvorak’s 8th symphony and the melodies of Sibelius’ “Belshazzar’s Feast,” creating a rich and diverse musical experience.
Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre Box Office Hours
If something piqued your interest in our Ancaster theatre shows schedule, you can order online or try in-person during box-office hours:
- Thursday 4pm to 7pm
- Saturday 12pm to 4pm
- Sunday 12pm to 4pm
The Barracks Inn—Boutique Hotel in Hamilton, Ontario
We invite you to experience the joy of the events Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre today, during your next stay with us, or a fun day trip to the Ancaster village.
We know that trip-planning can get overwhelming, so we’re always happy to help you curate a trip itinerary, help with ticket information, transportation options, and pre- or post-theatre dining and entertainment options.
Book your stay today and start planning some things to do in Ancaster this weekend!