Hosting Your Event at the Sanctuary Arts Centre

The Sanctuary Arts Center Logo-1

Say Hello to Dartmouth's New Home for the Creative Arts!

Thank you for your interest in The Sanctuary Arts Centre. We're incredibly proud of our facility and are more than happy to answer any questions you may have to ensure you feel comfortable and confident that your event will be a great one!

100 Ochterloney Street-01-2

This Old Building

There's no mistaking the 100+ years of history behind this building

The Sanctuary Arts Centre is housed inside what was originally the former home of the "First Baptist Church Dartmouth."

For years, the First Baptist church stood at the corner of Ochterloney and Wentworth Street in Dartmouth. After it was sadly destroyed in the Halifax Explosion, the parishioners hired renowned architect Andrew Cobb to design and build a new home out of steel and stone to ensure it would never fall again. You can still find a foundation stone on the front of the church, marking its finished construction in 1921.

From its bold stone face to its peaked roof (which, fun fact, is actually shaped like a crucifix from above) the Arts Centre is an unmissable landmark, centrally located in Downtown Dartmouth.

As you enter the Sanctuary Theatre, your eye will undoubtedly be drawn to the deep stage, acoustic arches (once used to amplify a grand pipe organ), the wide capacity wooden church pews with gently slopping theatre floors (every seat is a great one!) and, of course, the artist crafted stained glass windows.

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About The Arts Centre

A small but mighty team in front, and behind the scenes

The Sanctuary Arts Centre is operated by the "Halifax Art and Performance Association," a local not-for-profit dedicated to supporting the vibrant community of artists, creatives, and performers in Dartmouth, Halifax, and throughout HRM. 

The Sanctuary Arts Centre is the ideal destination for any artist looking to perform or exhibit their work. Our performance space has been lovingly renovated (from its original form as a 100-year-old church) with modern amenities and a passionate team that strives to support local art. We invite all forms of art from beginner to professional level, with programs and events happening all year round. 

From immersive theatrical experiences to intimate acoustic concerts to art show exhibitions or comedy nights, Our team works hard to create an inviting atmosphere where all are welcomed and celebrated with open arms. The Sanctuary Arts Centre is the perfect place to take your artistry to the next level!

 

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*Some values are approximate based on available data

 

 

Facility Overview

 

Sanctuary Theatre

Our Main Theatre and Original "Sanctuary Auditorium" boasts a tall acoustic dome, a 635 sqft stage and an accessible entrance.

220 Seated Capacity or 350 when used in conjunction with Theatre Annex

Green Room

Originally the "Pastors Office," our Green Room is located backstage in the Sanctuary Theatre and features comfortable seating, stool-height countertops and a performers’ restroom.

 

Theatre Annex

Our accessible Theatre Annex space is decked in 1090 sqft of hardwood and located next to the Sanctuary Theatre. It can be rented on its own or as an expansion space to the theatre.

(seating available)

100 Capacity 

Theatre Restrooms

These gender-neutral, private restrooms are located just to the left of our main stage. We have built these restrooms with accessibility and comfort in mind while being sure to integrate the charm of the original building's construction.

We also have 4 additional (equally charming) restrooms available downstairs for larger events.

 

Rehearsal Hall

Our accessible Rehearsal Hall sits below the Sanctuary Theatre ("Downstairs at the Sanctuary") and offers 2000 sqft of creative space and its own restroom facilities.

(equipment, tables and seating are available at a cost)

60 Person Capacity 

Equipment

We are constantly improving and expanding the capabilities of the Sanctuary Theatre, Theatre Annex, and Rehearsal Hall. For an updated list of tech and service offerings, click here

Get a Better Look at Sanctuary Events and Features

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/ Sanctuary Theatre /

The Theatre

Get a better look at the Available Space

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/ Theatre Annex /

Theatre Annex

Get a better look at the Available Space

Rehearsal Hall
/ Rehearsal Hall /

Rehearsal Hall

Get a better look at the Available Space

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/ Sanctuary Theatre /

Sanctuary Theatre Performances

Theatre, Dance, Comedy, Wrestling and More!

Sanctuary Theatre Concert
/ Sanctuary Theatre /

Sanctuary Theatre Concerts

Theatre Annex Meeting
/ Theatre Annex /

Theatre Annex Meetings

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/ Sanctuary Theatre and Annex /

Weddings

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/ Rehearsal Hall /

Concerts "Downstairs at the Sanctuary"

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book a full day if the event is only a few hours?

Yes, any event booking will be considered a full-day rental.

Regardless of the length of the event itself, the venue is considered occupied and dedicated to the event taking place that day. 

In rare cases, you may be able to take advantage of an opening in our "Hourly Booking Schedule."

However, these opportunities can be rare and often don't have the same access and service items as an event booking.

Do you have a box office or theatre ushers?

Can alcohol be served and consumed at the event?

Can I hire my own vendors and bring my own equipment if I rent your space?

Do I need to pay for my setup and takedown time?

Do I have 24-hour access to the space during a standard "day rental"

Does the building have security?

Are there additional (hidden) costs outside the rental rate?

If you have any other questions about our venue or process, please don't hesitate to reach out to us and ask!

Ready for the next steps?