Westben Theatre

Experience the union of music and nature like never before at Westben Theatre. Westben is a non-profit charitable arts organization that promises to bring people together through music. Set amid the magnificent and tranquil hills of Northumberland County, it is 90 minutes east of Toronto and 3 km north of Campbellford.

Westben’s chief performance venue is a custom built, timber-framed barn. The barn can accommodate around 400 people who want to immerse themselves in music and nature at the same time. State-of-the-art acoustic pairs beautifully with the rustic yet sophisticated atmosphere.

During the summer, giant doors and walls roll back so the audience can appreciate the vivid backdrop painted by nature. If you visit between June and August, you will get to soak in some vitamin D in the sun while you are swaying to the sound of the music sitting in the meadow.

For over 20 years, Westben has been transforming audiences through the power of music. From Bach to Broadway favourites, opera, jazz and world music, a myriad of musical genres are celebrated .

For up-to-date information and details on Westben Theatre, we recommend you visit their website. For information about other places of interest to explore nearby, keep scrolling to see what Destination Ontario recommends. 

A birds eye view of inside Westben Theatre. Rows of seats are facing the stage, the walls and ceiling are made up of natural wooden beams.

More about Westben Theatre

The convergence of people, ideas and activities make for one great musical event each season at Westben Theatre. You also get to satisfy your taste buds with exotic food and special wines. Special events and festivals at the theatre combine colourful history, enchanting locations and cultural musical recitals. While international and new performers are featured throughout the year at Westben’s Centre for Connection & Creativity in town.

Their Dare to Pair with local chefs and Dare to Share with musicians, storytellers and sommeliers are themed, one-of-a-kind sessions.

The couple behind this concept, Donna Bennett and Brian Finley, are known for creating a cultural cornerstone in rural Ontario. They joined forces after pursuing their performance careers separately to give rise to this idea called Westben—a performing arts festival in the Trent Hills region.  

Their shared vision and leadership has strengthened the sense of a community in the region and shone a light on Canadian music and emerging artists. The festival brings together both professional and amateur musicians of the highest calibre. With each event, they enhance their artistic excellence.

The various events that they host include community choirs, and bands, First-Friday Lunchtime Tick Talks, Concerts to a Tea, community musicals and Christmas programs. Symphony, folk, fiddle, comedy, jazz, Indigenous and electronic music are just a few of the many genres that have been performed.

Westben should be on your list if you want to experience music in a natural setting.

Last updated: August 18, 2023

Looking for Ontario travel advice?

Our experts are here to help you plan your perfect trip. Call or book today.