In the late 1970s, the Town of Halton Hills commissioned a feasibility study (with financial support from Wintario) to investigate the need for a visual and performing arts facility in Georgetown. In addition to this study the need for greatly expanded library space was acknowledged.

Working with town officials and council, consultants Robert Bailey and Keith Wagland decided that if certain properties could be acquired to enable expansion at the existing library site at the corner of Church and Market Streets, then the current site would be the most appropriate location. It was at this point that Mr. A.V. Tennant was hired as project manager.

Co-operating with local arts groups, changes were incorporated into the design and on October 18, 1981, the expanded library, art gallery and The John Elliott Theatre were opened to the people of Halton Hills. Named after prominent area businessman, politician and community-minded citizen John Alwyn Elliott, this 267 seat facility accommodates the public in comfortable raked seating. It has a wide proscenium and generous stage, including fly-tower and orchestra pit. Mrs. Betsy Cornwell continued in her role as Chief Librarian and Mr. Hank Huhtanen was hired to manage the facility. Opening week festivities included performances by Ronnie Hawkins and Sylvia Tyson.

Since opening, the John Elliott Theatre has become the principal home for performances by Georgetown Little Theatre and Georgetown GLOBE Productions. Numerous community groups, entertainers and businesses continue to use the theatre year after year due to its excellent amenities. Most recently it played host to a sold-out performance by 2005 Juno winner Sarah Harmer on her I Love the Escarpment Tour.

2006 is an exciting time for the main branch of the Halton Hills Library as they move forward with their long-awaited expansion at the Halton Hills Cultural Centre, under the capable leadership of Director of Library Services, Jane Diamanti.

We’re having a party, and everyone’s invited!

To recognize this milestone a group of volunteers, (including members of the local artist community, library and Town staff) have been working since early 2006 on plans for a grand celebration of the arts. It will be held from October 13 – 22, wrapping up with the annual Arts Alive Awards presentations on Sunday, October 22 in the Marjorie Nazer Gallery at the Halton Hills Cultural Centre. Performances in the John Elliott Theatre, artistic exhibitions, demonstrations, and workshops by such groups as Blac Ice Illustrators will appeal to a broad spectrum of the local community as well as the surrounding area. Show and ticket information is available at the John Elliott Theatre Box Office at 905-877-3700 or on the Town of Halton Hills website at www.haltonhills.ca.