The Ontario government is committing $35 million towards the rebuilding of the Royal George Theatre in Niagara-on-the-Lake, a move it claims will help boost the region’s economy and tourism.

Funding will support the construction of a larger, more modern venue at the Shaw Festival site. The new theatre will feature 20 percent more seating, along with updated rehearsal and work spaces.

The Royal George Theatre, a key venue for the Shaw Festival, will close permanently later this year. The redevelopment project is expected to be completed in 2029. In total, the construction is expected to create 550 jobs, with additional contributions of $80 million to the province’s GDP and $29 million in government revenues during the process.