2025 Report to Community

REPORT TO COMMUNITY

2025

FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

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The FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre (PAC) is located in downtown St. Catharines, Ontario at the corner of St. Paul and Carlisle Streets on the shared traditional lands of the Haudenosaunee, Anishinaabe, Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, the Neutral Peoples and many other Indigenous People from across Turtle Island.

This territory is covered by the Upper Canada Treaties and is within the land protected by the Dish With One Spoon Wampum agreement. We offer our sincere gratitude and respect to the original and continued stewards of this land and are reminded that our great standard of living is directly related to the resources and friendship of Indigenous Peoples.

We also acknowledge Indigenous, Black, other Racialized Communities and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People who have been marginalized for centuries and more — and our collective responsibility to take action for a better world free from oppression, discrimination and racism.

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FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025 Reflections from Leadership..................................................................2

Community Programs............................................................................18

Our Commitment......................................................................................4

Rental Programs....................................................................................20

PAC Stats....................................................................................................6

Founding Partners................................................................................. 22

PAC Presents Live Performance Series..............................................8

Volunteer Program................................................................................ 24

The Film House........................................................................................ 11

PAC Staff and Board of Directors...................................................... 26

Programming for Youth.........................................................................12

Thank You Sponsors and Donors........................................................ 28

Fund Development..................................................................................14

Financial Snapshot.................................................................................31

Our Members........................................................................................... 17

250 St. Paul Street St. Catharines, ON L2R 3M2 Box Office 905-688-0722 boxoffice@firstontariopac.ca

firstontariopac.ca PUBLISHED JUNE 2026

ON THE COVER: Soweto Gospel Choir, photograph by Giant Shoe.

FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

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REFLECTIONS FROM LEADERSHIP MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD CHAIR On behalf of the Board of Directors, I am pleased to present the 2025 Report to Community, highlighting a year of strong impact and an important milestone for FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre.

Throughout the year, the PAC demonstrated its value across the Niagara region as a leading cultural institution — fostering community connection, supporting artistic excellence, and contributing to regional vitality. The celebration of the centre’s 10th Anniversary further underscored its significance, and the depth of community support it continues to inspire.

I would also like to extend sincere thanks to our patrons for their ongoing support and enthusiastic attendance, and to our staff and volunteers for their professionalism, dedication, and consistent delivery of high-quality experiences in service of the community.

It is an honour to serve as Board Chair beginning in 2026, having been a member of the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre Board since its formation.

I look forward to working alongside my fellow directors to support the PAC’s continued growth and success.

Sincerely,

The Board remains committed to effective governance, strategic oversight, and long-term sustainability. We take pride in our role as ambassadors for the organization, ensuring it is well-positioned to deliver on its mission today and into the future.

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FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

Lloyd Smith Lloyd Smith, Board Chair

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO We at the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre believe in the power of the arts to transform communities. As we reflect on 2025, I am proud to share a year that, while challenging, was also defined by impact, celebration and transformation.

Our 10th Anniversary celebrations invited us to look back on what this organization has become over the last decade; a vital part of Niagara’s cultural life and a place where the arts and community grow. At our Community Open House in September, we heard from Mayor Siscoe and former Mayors Sendzik and McMullan, all who supported making the PAC the success that it is today. They reminded us that our impact reaches far beyond the stage.

Throughout the year, that impact was felt in many ways. We welcomed over 114K community members to 661 events in 2025, including 319 screenings in The Film House. This resulted in $9.2M in income for local workers and contributed $16.3M to regional GDP. In January, we officially became a charitable organization. With a vision to ensure the arts are an essential part of life in Niagara, we hosted our inaugural SPARK Gala featuring a special live performance by The Tenors. The support from our community was overwhelming, and the event raised over 200K to secure the best talent on our stages at accessible pricing for all.

From our VIP Members Night to standout performances including Tom Morello and Jann Arden, our community showed up in full force to celebrate and participate in the arts. We also launched our new five-year Strategic Plan and announced the creation of the Art in Action: Climate festival, further defining our role as a leading cultural destination in Niagara.

While 2025 was a year of celebrations and new initiatives, it was also a challenging year for the PAC, as Brock University, one of our original founding partners, made the decision to exit its partnership agreement with the City of St. Catharines. We have greatly valued our 10-year partnership with the University, and we are hopeful that we will find a way to work together in the future, as we remain committed to a place that inspires and develops the next generation of artists.

I would like to extend our sincere thanks to the City of St. Catharines, our founding partner, whose ongoing support and shared vision for a vibrant cultural sector is integral to our success.

Thank YOU for being part of this journey! The arts belong here, and because of your support, they will continue to grow and thrive here. With your continued support, the future is bright, and we are so excited for the next chapter.

With appreciation,

Colleen Smith Colleen A. Smith, CEO

FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

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OUR COMMITMENT

OUR VISION

OUR MANDATE

To make the arts an essential part of life in Niagara.

As a convenor of arts, culture, and creativity, we are stewards of the beautiful multi-venue facility that is the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre, with a mandate to present and support artistic work, and enhance the community that we serve.

OUR MISSION Through the arts, we create exceptional experiences for and with our community.

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FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

We believe in the power of the arts to transform communities.

Choir! Choir! Choir!, photograph by Dan Brown.

OUR VALUES CARE We approach all interactions with kindness, empathy, and respect, communicating with openness and honesty.

CREATIVITY We celebrate self-expression, authenticity, and the willingness to take risks to create an exceptional experience.

COLLABORATION We recognize and value diversity of perspectives and experiences, working together with trust, transparency, and mutual respect.

CULTURE OF LEARNING We are curious and self-aware, committed to personal growth and lifelong learning through the arts.

FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

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ABOUT PAC + IMPACT STATS The PAC is Niagara’s home for the arts: a place where audiences, artists, students, community and arts organizations come together. Under one roof, four distinct venues make room for big nights out, intimate artistic encounters, shared learning, independent film, and community life.

In 2025, the PAC welcomed 114,971 patrons to 661 events — creating moments that moved people, strengthened connections, expanded access, and contributed to the cultural and economic life of the region.

HEARTS IN SEATS We exist to move people.

114,971 patrons attended 661 total events 421 PAC presented events 1,049 PAC Presents and Film House Members

Dean Brody, photograph by Joel Naphin.

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FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

THE HOME STAGE

EVERY SEASON OF LIFE

We are a home for Niagara’s arts ecosystem.

The arts belong to everyone, at

4 venues: Partridge Hall, Recital Hall, The Film House, Robertson Theatre

every age and every stage of life.

86 programming partners

and teachers reached through

239 community arts and rental partner events $1,041,813 paid in artist fees

In 2025, over 6,400 students subsidized imPACt Education tickets. We hosted 60 free and pay-what-you-can events and provided 4,166 free tickets to the community. 354 CANOO tickets were provided for newcomers to Canada.

THE CATALYST

BEYOND THE BUILDING

What happens at the PAC reaches far beyond our walls.

The PAC experience continues long after the curtain call.

11,182 visitors came from outside the Niagara Region

910K+ website sessions

$21.6M in visitor spending

2.8M pageviews

$16.3M contributed to regional GDP

630K visitors 34K social followers

$9.2M generated in income for local workers FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

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PAC Presents 10th Anniversary Live Performances 102 PAC Presents Performances 612 PAC Members 38,206 attendees, a 14% increase over 2024

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FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

In 2025, we marked our 10th anniversary with live performances that highlighted the PAC’s role as a destination for unforgettable experiences and Niagara’s home for the arts. Across music, dance, comedy, and community celebration, audiences shared unforgettable moments with artists from Niagara, across Canada and around the world.

Our season also expanded what audiences in Niagara could experience close to home. Performances by Yamato: The Drummers of Japan, Step Afrika!, Ailey II, and Soweto Gospel Choir brought global music to our stage, while community-rooted events such as the Black History Month Talent Show and Secret Path Live in Concert created space for celebration, reflection, and connection.

The season brought internationally celebrated artists and beloved Canadian voices to St. Catharines, including Pink Martini, Fraggle Rock, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Tom Morello, Finger Eleven, Brett Kissel, Jim Cuddy Band, Jann Arden, Dallas Smith, Ron Sexsmith, Stars, and Colin James. Audience favourites including Dwayne Gretzky and 54•40 filled Partridge Hall with energy, while Howie Mandel delivered a night of laughter.

In November, the PAC introduced its SPARK Gala (see page 19).

This inaugural event brought together the PAC’s community of supporters to celebrate 10 years in style. Featuring The Tenors, the event highlighted a decade of artistic ambition, generosity, and belief in what the arts make possible.

Yamato Drummers, photograph by Giant Shoe.

FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

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Dwayne Gretzky, photograph by Stuart Hendrie.

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FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

THE FILM HOUSE

In 2025, audiences at The Film House discovered new blockbuster and indie features, award-winning documentaries, beloved classics (our Retro Reels film series) and accessible family programming in an intimate, modern setting that paired film with local Niagara wine and craft beer. Signature events such as Oscar Season celebrations and interactive screenings like Rocky Horror Picture Show, plus family-friendly programming such as March Break matinees, were designed to make The Film House both a cultural home and a welcoming social space for film lovers at every stage of life.

Highlights from the year included:

319 film screenings 12,733 attendees

Launched our Retro Reels film series

Celebrated Brock University Film Society (BUFS) 50th anniversary with our monthly BUFS film series dedicated to films made in 1975

Continued our partnership with Niagara Society of Architects on the Architecture Film Series

Presented Community Screenings with partners: Community Addiction Services of Niagara (CASON), Brock University, Niagara College, OUTNiagara, Ukrainian Canadian Congress

Youth Film Club programmed series, including a Matinee Takeover in January and Essential Queer Cinema in May

424 Film House members

Screening in The Film House, photograph by Giant Shoe.

FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

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imPACt Youth Program with the Yamato Drummers, photograph by Giant Shoe.

PROGRAMS AND PARTNERSHIPS FOR YOUTH

24 performance and events

an increase of 60% over 2024

6,461 students and educators attended

$14K+ in ticket subsidies

provided to Niagara students

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FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

The PAC continues to be a home for accessible, inspiring arts education — a place where young people discover the arts. In 2025, the imPACt Education Series welcomed 6,461 students and educators to live, curriculum-aligned performances designed to spark creativity, connection, and learning.

Serving students from Pre-K to Grade 12, all programming is carefully curated to complement the Ontario curriculum across subjects and age levels.

Students engaged with a dynamic lineup of performances that explored environment, belonging, and Indigenous knowledge through powerful storytelling, including Secret Path Live, and Where Have All the Buffalo Gone? Highlights also included globally inspired music in KUNÉ World’s Universal Echoes and beloved literary storytelling in Carousel Players’ Where the Wild Things Are. Together, these experiences reached learners and educators across Niagara — making arts education engaging, inclusive, and memorable.

Niagara Symphony’s Instrument Petting Zoo on Family Day, photograph by Giant Shoe.

Youth Film Club The Youth Film Club continued to open the door for high school students to gain real-world experience in cinema programming, event planning, and community engagement. In 2025, the cohort helped shape screenings and themed events at The Film House, bringing fresh ideas, promotional support, and volunteer energy to programs that resonated with the community and strengthened young people’s connection to the arts.

Family Day

Yellow Door Theatre Project Summer Camp In summer 2025, the PAC once again partnered with Yellow Door Theatre Project to host their two-week musical theatre camp for youth ages eight to 17. Participants trained in acting, singing, and choreography, and concluded the program with fully staged performances of The Lion King Jr. in the PAC’s professional theatre spaces. The camp offered an inspiring opportunity for young performers to grow in confidence, skill, and creativity, supported by a team of theatre educators and production staff.

In 2025, the PAC came alive with Family Day activations in every space. Over 1.2K community members engaged in free activities, including, Retro Cartoons & Cereal in The Film House, Silent Rock Band with Niagara Conservatory of Music, an interactive Arts Hive with Willow Arts Community, an all-ages Bollywood dance class with Shaina Rai, Niagara Symphony Orchestra’s Instrument Petting Zoo, a puppet creation station with Carousel Players, and a venue-wide scavenger hunt! Ticketed events included Tweet! Tweet! by Welland’s Femmes du Feu Creations, a highly interactive percussion performance from SAMAJAM, and an interactive screening of Shrek hosted by the PAC’s Youth Film Club.

Young audience member at Kune World, photograph by Giant Shoe.

FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

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FUND DEVELOPMENT In 2025, the PAC began a new chapter as a registered charity, giving our community a direct way to invest in what happens here and what it makes possible across Niagara.

We believe the arts are essential. Every gift helps us bring more powerful artistic experiences to our stages, widen access, support learning and creative discovery, and strengthen the PAC’s role as a catalyst for community and culture.

Philanthropic contributions reached over $370K A 262% increase over 2024 Sponsors contributed $101K

The Tenors perform at the SPARK Gala, photograph by Giant Shoe.

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FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

Your support helped fuel

The imPACt Education Series Family Day Community Open House Youth Film Club Community Film Screenings CANOO Program for Newcomers Bold programming and transformative projects that push creative boundaries Expanded access to the arts for all members of our community

Investment in the arts is an investment in all communities, in safer downtowns, thriving small businesses, and livelier neighbourhoods.”

– Colleen A. Smith, CEO FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre

SPARK Gala On Nov. 25, 2025, we celebrated our 10th anniversary season with the inaugural SPARK Gala. The event attracted hundreds of supporters and raised more than $200K for PAC programming and community events. This outcome was possible thanks to our PAC donors, partners, members and attendees who continue to believe in what arts and culture can do for Niagara.

Guests at the gala experienced a Niagara-inspired evening beginning with a cocktail reception featuring local winery and brewery partners, followed by a delicious dinner prepared by Chef Erik Peacock of Wellington Court. Live and silent auctions, with prizes donated by community businesses and partners, added excitement throughout evening. The night concluded with a headline performance

by The Tenors in Partridge Hall.

SPARK Gala, photograph by Giant Shoe.

FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

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What I love most is how it welcomes everyone. From young people experiencing the magic of the arts for the first time, to lifelong patrons who return again and again — there’s a sense of belonging here. It’s created not just by the performances, but by the passionate staff, dedicated volunteers, and generous sponsors who make it all possible.”

– Mary Lou Urquhart, PAC Ambassador Member Audience members at Choir! Choir! Choir!, photograph by Dan Brown.

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FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

Members Night 2025, photograph by Giant Shoe.

Our Members In 2025, our over 1K members continued to show what it means to stand behind the arts in Niagara. Their support helped ensure the PAC is not only a place to see great performances, but a place where community, creativity and connection can grow.

This year, we introduced a new tiered membership model with expanded benefits and a built-in charitable giving component.

Whether joining as a Friend, Champion, Ambassador or Visionary, each member played a meaningful role in supporting the PAC as Niagara’s home for the arts.

It’s such a beautiful place to come and enjoy live performance, whether it’s music or dance, and the acoustics are just phenomenal. To feel like you are part of this community — it’s an amazing place.”

– Janice Hutton, PAC Ambassador Member

Throughout the year, members enjoyed early access to tickets, special pricing and invitations to exclusive events that created deeper connection to the artists, the performances and one another. From Members Night to VIP gatherings and meet-andgreet opportunities, these moments helped turn attendance into belonging.

Through our Partner Perks discounts at local businesses, members also received benefit beyond our walls, extending the PAC experience into the wider community and reinforcing our role as part of Niagara’s cultural and economic life.

The passion the PAC team has to bring quality performances and diverse performances is always impressive. Wanting to truly give back to the community is a big part of where the PAC has gone in the last few years... to make sure this is a place for the whole community not just elite members.”

– Phil Hutton, PAC Ambassador Member

FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

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Kune World, photograph by Giant Shoe.

COMMUNITY PROGRAMS AT THE PAC The PAC is committed to strengthening our community through welcoming, barrier-free artistic experiences that empower everyone to participate in a rich cultural and civic life.

Community Film Screenings The Film House spotlights local voices and timely issues through monthly screenings co-presented with local community groups.

These pay-what-you-can and free events often include postfilm panels, guest speakers, and virtual Q&As that invite deeper conversation and connection.

380 Community Film attendees 354 CANOO tickets issued to newcomers 18

Holiday Newcomer Market & CANOO Partnership In its third year now, the CANOO ticket access program continued in 2025 with the PAC and 15 Niagara-based arts organizations providing free or discounted access to newcomers across the region. The program, offered in partnership with the Institute for Canadian Citizenship, aims to create a more welcoming and culturally vibrant community by removing barriers to participation in the arts for new Canadians.

In December, the PAC once again hosted the Holiday Newcomer Market, in partnership with Bridges Niagara, where attendees explored handmade goods, connected with local newcomer-run businesses, and took part in seasonal festivities. The market was presented alongside a pay-what-you-can concert in Partridge Hall featuring KUNÉ, Canada’s Global Orchestra, whose work explores and celebrates Canada’s cultural diversity.

FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

COMMUNITY PROGRAMMING PARTNERS

Department of Geography & Tourism Studies

Department of Medieval & Renaissance Studies

Hadiyadagénhahs First Nations, Métis and Inuit Student Centre

Human Rights & Equity Office

Faculty of Math and Science

Strong Water Women

FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

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COMMUNITY USE AND RENTALS Created for and by the community, the PAC proudly serves as a platform for a diverse mix of professional and avocational arts organizations, promoter-led events, and community gatherings across a wide range of disciplines. Our role goes far beyond providing space—we offer infrastructure, expert production and marketing support, and a welcoming, fully accessible environment where creativity and talent thrive.

Each year, hundreds of artists, presenters, students, and community groups activate our venues with events that span concerts, dance competitions, festivals, film screenings, graduations, fundraisers, and more. These events don’t just enrich lives through arts and culture — they also draw visitors who energize our downtown core, supporting jobs, tourism, local businesses, and the broader economy in Niagara. Through our community and rental partnerships, the PAC serves as both a community resource and a catalyst for the city and region.

In 2025, our spaces were animated by:

101 events with local arts partners 138 community partner events 180 rental event days

Wine tasting in the Algoma Lobby, photograph by Steph Montani.

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FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

RENTAL PROGRAM PARTNERS 12 Mile Event and Production Inc.

Holy Cross Catholic Secondary School

Paquette Entertainment Company Ltd.

Academy

Honour Choir

Pink Floyd Niagara

Avanti Singers

Johnny Showtime Ltd.

Saint Francis Catholic Secondary School

Awake to Praise - Vineland Reformed Church

Laurie Ewart’s Danceworks

David Skolnick – Rowen Productions

Ballet Etc.

Legends Revisited

Shantero Productions

Beaches International Jazz Festival

Jeff Leeson

SHOCK Dance Challenge

Bounty Enterprises

Live Incorporated – TCB Entertainment

Simon Xiao

Bravo Niagara! Festival of the Arts

Live is All You Need Inc.

Skyship Entertainment

Broadway Lights Dance Studio

Live Nation Canada

Sofifran Niagara

Brock Musical Theatre

Robert Missen

Frank Spadone

Carousel Players

MODO Live Arts & Entertainment

Sport Niagara

Cesare Casciato

Momentum Choir

St. Catharines Public Library

Chorus Niagara

Jacob Moon

Strut Niagara

City of St. Catharines

Moon Coin

The Yellow Door Theatre Project

Ward Cornforth

Murray Hodgson Presents

Thorold Secondary School

Drayden DeCosta

Music Niagara & Canadian Chamber

Thorold Track Club

District School Board of Niagara

Musical Event Solutions

Time Warp Promotions

Expressions Dance Company

My Mulan

VaughnCo Entertainment Inc.

Faulty Towers – Starvox Entertainment

Niagara Ballet

We Dance Production, Inc.

Colin Field – Albiero Films

Niagara Catholic District School Board

Forrest Jones Entertainment

Niagara College

Fusion Studio of Performing Arts

Niagara Dance & Fitness Studio

Gallery Players of Niagara

Niagara Symphony Orchestra

Garden City Comedy Festival

Outback

Grimsby Book Store

Oxy Vinyls

FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

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FOUNDING PARTNER CITY OF ST. CATHARINES The City of St. Catharines played a foundational role in the creation of the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre, guided by a Mayor and City Council who recognized the transformative impact a performing arts centre would have on the revitalization of downtown. The PAC officially opened its doors in November 2015, and in 2018, City Council approved a transition plan to establish the PAC as a Municipal Service Board. This governance shift took effect in January 2020, when the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre Board assumed operational leadership.

While the City of St. Catharines retains ownership of the facility and funds core operating expenses, the Board of Directors is entrusted with stewarding the PAC’s vision and managing its day-to-day operations. We are proud of and grateful for our ongoing partnership with the City and its residents.

Arts Impact Beyond the Stage

$64,496 contributed

toward the St. Catharines Cultural Investment Program (SCCIP) 22

Each year, the PAC contributes one third of the Community Cultural Investment Fund (CCIF) fee — collected from patrons at the time of ticket purchase — directly to the St. Catharines Cultural Investment Program (SCCIP).

This vital municipal granting program provides essential support to local artists, cultural organizations, and creative initiatives based in St. Catharines.

FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

SPARK Gala, photograph by Giant Shoe.

FOUNDING PARTNER BROCK UNIVERSITY Brock University was one of the PAC’s original founding partners. However, in 2025, Brock exited its formal partnership agreement with the City of St. Catharines.

We are grateful for the role the University played in the PAC’s first 10 years and remain committed to being a place that inspires and supports the next generation of artists.

We are hopeful there will be opportunities to work together again in the future.

3 Brock University partnership screenings with 125 attendees 14 Brock University Department of Music events 8 Free Music at Noon performances

FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

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VOLUNTEER PROGRAM From the moment the lobby lights go up to the final curtain call, our volunteers are behind the scenes and out front, helping every performance and event run seamlessly.

Whether offering a warm welcome at the door, assisting guests with accessibility needs, answering questions, or capturing memorable moments on camera, their dedication enhances every aspect of the PAC experience. As ambassadors of our values, they help ensure that every visit feels personal, welcoming, and memorable. We are deeply thankful for their time, energy, and unwavering commitment to building community through the arts.

86 volunteers 11.3K volunteer hours

an increase of 11% over 2024

THANK YOU PAC VOLUNTEERS (current as of April 2026) Rick Agnew

Kevin Ferguson

Helen Self

Edith Bacon

Lyn Fox

Carol Serroul

John Bordowitz

Karla Gilmore

Jack Sheehan

Gale Briggs

Lynda Greer

Teresa Slobodian

Victor Brodeur

Jane Hanna

Joanne Spence

Jill Buckingham

Marni Hogg

Sharon St. Pierre

Frances Bunting

Ginette Hunter

Wendy Szymski

Kristine Casement

Richard Kent

Alison Thomson

Bill Chapman

Coby Koene

Robert Trask

Monique Charlebois

Zandy Kusyj

Tess Trojan

Dennis Cheredar

Alan Lau

Dianne Turner

Laurie Cheredar

Jocelyn Laing

Mark Turner

Patt Chivers

Trish Loat

Annette Urlocker

Gary Clement

Rob Loiselle

Cathy Van Oosten

Carol Clifford

Kathy Lyon

Lisa Vanderloos

Linda Cranford

Cynthia Martin

Koby Vanyo

Maureen Cripps

Fay Mattus

Colleen Vrhovsek

Anita Curran

Megan McKee

Pattie Webb

Margaret Davison

John Meguerian

Bonnie Dearborn

Sharon Meguerian

Volunteer

Wanda DiMarco

Sandie Nicholson

Photographers

Joy DiSimoni

Chereen Osborne

Dan Brown

Loretta Donatelli

Terry Parker

Marc Delledonne

Jane Donegan

Vartkes Peltekoglu

Marino Favretto

Sue Dryczewycz

Pearl Peritalo

Jeff Friesen

Rita Eastman

Sharon Ridings

Lauren Garbutt

Alec Edmondstone

Melodie Robinson

Joel Naphin

Maria Fabregas

Beverly Russell

Volunteer assisting patrons at the Kune World performance, photograph by Giant Shoe.

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FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

THANK YOU PAC TEAM

(current as of April 2026)

Colleen A. Smith CEO

Dean Malton Production Supervisor

Jules Bartley Executive Operations and Governance Officer

Ryan Sturno Production Supervisor Ernest Harris Film Technician

Dan Hickey Director of Fund Development

Jennifer Hunt Client and Events Manager

Diana McAdorey Fund Development Associate

Jennie DiMarco Events and Hospitality Coordinator

Andrea Boitor Business and Partnership Associate

Angela Greer Events and Hospitality Coordinator Rosemarie Huber Events and Hospitality Coordinator

Jessie Reid Director of Marketing and Engagement

Leona McDonald Events and Hospitality Coordinator

Ingrid Forster Marketing and Communications Manager

Chace King Cleaner/Porter Lead

Jordy Yack Communications Coordinator

Krysta Boyer Audience Services Manager

Robert Harte Ticketing Services Manager

Thelma Forrester Volunteer Coordinator / Front of House Lead

Darren Clarke Ticketing Services Lead

Lea Bowman Front of House Lead

Jailla Stuart Ticketing Services Lead

Robert Trask Front of House Lead

Carlos Robayo Director of Resources and Strategic Initiatives

Donna Pollard Front of House Lead

Kyle Giesbrecht Finance and Accounting Supervisor

Melanie Alvis Front of House Lead

Judy Dennis Front of House Lead

Maria Irigoyen Finance and Administrative Associate Chelsea Marcella HR Generalist

IATSE House Crew Wayne Berge Venue Technician

Kathleen Ross Director of Programs and Services

Elsa McKnight Venue Technician

Cathy Carr Film Programmer

Kyle Greer Special Operator

Katey Gatta PAC Presents and Community Programmer

Joe Mahony Special Operator

Paul Buxton Facilities Manager

Amanda Lyn Parker Special Operator

Garrett Mitchell Facilities Coordinator

Joey Balducchi Lead Stage Hand

Robert Nicholls Production Manager Russell Donohue Production Supervisor

The FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre The FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre proudly 461 proudlyworks workswith withIATSE IATSELOCAL Local 461.

THANK YOU BOARD OF DIRECTORS

(current as of April 2026)

Lloyd Smith Board Chair (effective February 9, 2026)

Jackie Lindal City Councillor

Christina Atkinson Board Vice Chair / Human Resources

Robin McPherson City Councillor

Committee Chair

Kristine Douglas* CFO / Director of Financial Management Services

Shelley Chemnitz Finance & Audit Committee Chair

and City Treasurer - City of St. Catharines

Peter Partridge Fund Development Committee Chair

David Oakes* Chief Administrative Officer -

Christopher Yendt Governance & Nominations Committee Chair

City of St. Catharines

Stephan Gash Citizen Member

Tom Irvine* FirstOntario Credit Union Representative

Eileen Martin, Citizen Member

Colleen A. Smith* CEO, FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre

Roz Smith Citizen Member

*Non-Voting Member

Victoria Van Hezewyk Citizen Member FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

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STAFF & VOLUNTEERS CELEBRATING 10 YEARS AT THE PAC A huge thank you to the volunteers and staff who have been with us since we opened our doors 10 years ago. We honour your commitment to our organization and helping champion the arts as an essential part of life in Niagara.

THANK YOU Volunteers Rick Agnew

Helen Self

Edith Bacon

Teresa Slobodian

Monique Charlebois

Wendy Szymski

Dennis Cheredar

Dianne Turner

Laurie Cheredar

Mark Turner

Patt Chivers

Annette Urlocker

Carol Clifford

Pattie Webb

Linda Cranford Anita Curran

Staff

Bonnie Dearborn

Judy Dennis

Rita Eastman

Jay Forrester

Alec Edmondstone

Thelma Forrester

Kevin Ferguson

Kyle Greer

Jane Hanna

Rosemarie Huber

Coby Koene

Leona McDonald

Trish Loat

Rob Nicholls

John Meguerian

Carlos Robayo

Sharon Meguerian

Kathleen Ross

Chereen Osborne

Jordy Yack

Pearl Peritalo

Volunteer assisting patrons at the Kune World performance, photograph by Giant Shoe.

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FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

THANK YOU SPONSORS 2025 SERIES SPONSORS

2025 PERFORMANCE SPONSORS HUMAN RESOURCES ADVISORY

2 0 2 5 PA C B O X S P O N S O R S

2025 COMMUNITY ACCESS SPONSORS

2025 FILM HOUSE SPONSORS

2025 WINE AND BEER SPONSORS

2 0 2 5 S PA R K G A L A S P O N S O R S

2025 MEDIA SPONSORS

FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

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THANK YOU ANNUAL DONORS To the generous donors who stand behind the PAC year after year, thank you. Your support helps bring artists to our stages, stories to our screens, and meaningful experiences to our community. It creates space for connection, creativity, and discovery, and helps ensure the arts remain an essential part of life in Niagara.

Visionary ($2,400+)

Champions ($400-$999)

Virginia Atkin & Keith Ambachtsheer

Christina Atkinson

Dennis & Bernadette Martin

Gord Hatcher

John & Bonnie Bakowski

Jim McArthur & Sandra Smith

Eileen Martin & Hugh Gayler

Craig & Judy Bartlett

Valerie McCormack

Tom Irvine

Belinda Beattie & Jim Beattie

Sally McGarr

Elaine & Rick Jenkins

Colleen Beard

Joan & Gus Medina

Judith Kingsley

Brian Boden

Maria Mendes da Veiga

Catharine Krasnik

Jo-Ann Boyle-Jackson

Cathy & Michael Mondloch

Patrick Little

Lorne & Barbara Bjorgan

Bob Morris

Linda Neufeld

David & Frances Brockenshire

Wynne Nicholson

Janet Partridge

Shirley & Doug Brown

Scott Orosz

Peter Partridge & Poppy Gilliam

Donna Butler

Chereen Osborne

Peter & Linda Pringle

Arthur Chamberlain

May Paterson

Tom & Sue Rankin

Pamela Cline

Tamara Paton

Robert & Margaret Reid

Robert & Megan Cooper

Anita Pilon-Wilhelmson

Colleen A. Smith

Trish Crawford & Jacques Beaudoin

Carlos Robayo

Lloyd Smith

Denise Crockett

Kathleen Ross

Roz Smith

Benjamin Dietschi

Mary Anne Sersen

Wade Stayzer

Dr. Anne Elliot

Rathnakar & Geeta Shetty

Annette Urlocker

Stuart Ellis & Wilma Scott

David & Heather Sloan

Bill English

Teresa Slobodian

Ambassador ($999-$2,400)

Paul Faris

Reg Sonnenberg

Ineke Brinkman

Judith & Hugh Fraser

Terry Suess

Shelley Chemnitz

Nancy Garner

Susan & David Sydor

Don Firth

Stephen Gash

Colleen Quinn

Janet Fraser

Mary Anne Goldsborough

Ruth Unrau

Phil & Janice Hutton

Kevin & Brenda Goodwin

Victoria Van Hezewyk

Kathy Inch

Shelley Griffin

Terry Veldboom

Bonnie Kinal

David Horhota

Carey & Jeannie Walton

Jovie Joki

Fayroon & Gerald Kandasamy

Janis Weaver

Anthony Macri

Sherry & Jim Keast

Don & Pattie Webb

Mark Steinman

Jamie & Kathryn Lalande

Ellen Wodchis

Charles & Tina Tenbrinke

Peggy Lampard

Anita Pilon-Wilhelmson

Mary Lou Urquhart

Fraser & Karen MacKay

Anna Yasny

Diana Wales & Nick Villella

Anthony Macri

Amanda Ziegler & Colin Ryrie

Carl & Rachel Vaughan

Annette Marchionda & Len Hume

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FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

Friends ($175-$399) David Adames

Deborah Guthrie

Colette Pellerin

Carlos Alvarez

Peter & Linda Hammond

Brian Patterson

Julie Ambachtsheer

Beverley Hannah

Dallas Petroff

John Armstrong

Susan Heller

David Picton

Kristine & Bob Casement

Robert & Josephine Henderson

Maureen Redman

John Chotka

Tom Insinna

Elaine Reid

Lesley Choules & Dan Hickey

Margaret Jordan

Patricia Rooney

Pamela Cline

Breanne Korody

Kathy Sabo

Marilyn Davis

Alan & Bev Lansbury

Dianna Sensabaugh

Laura Donatelli

Jessica Lindsay

Karen Sills

Kristine & Jeff Douglas

Scott Loomis

Muriel Smith

M. Kenneth Douglas

Elaine Lott

Sandra Smith

Dustin Duncan

Marilyn Marsaw

Sharon Smith

Alec Edmonstone

Andrew May

Mihai Soare

Jayne & Rick Evans

Tiffany Mayer

Jim Stirling

Erin Fischer

John Maynard

Lydia Tarasiuk

Lois Flatley

Les & Joan McCurdy-Myers

Karen Tausendfreund

Heather Foss

Brian McMullan

Diane Thompson

Lyn Fox

Ugo Menard

Anne Tytler

William Genik

Carol Merriam

Sharon West

Jill Goebel

Roberta Miller

Julie Wills

Joseph Gottli

Janice Moyer

Sid & Eileen Grabell

Christine Nolan

Janna Griffiths

Dave Oakes

THANK YOU PUBLIC FUNDERS AND SUPPORTERS We would like to acknowledge the City of St. Catharines Mayor, City Council and staff and Brock University’s President, faculty and staff.

FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

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James Barker Band, photograph by Marino Favretto.

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FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

FINANCIAL SNAPSHOT The PAC Resources and Strategic Initiatives team is responsible for preparing the annual budget and business plan, financial statements, and quarterly financial reforecasts, working through the Board’s Finance and Audit Committee. The PAC’s annual operating and capital budgets are submitted by the Board to St. Catharines City Council for approval.

The financial statements of the Board have been prepared in accordance with Canadian public sector accounting standards for government not-for-profit organizations and are audited by KPMG. The following section illustrates our sources of income and areas of expenditure as per the PAC’s 2025 financial statements.

The PAC was registered as a Charitable Organization by the Canada Revenue Agency on January 1, 2025 for the charitable purposes of advancing the public’s appreciation and understanding of the arts and culture by providing accessible performances, festivals, exhibitions, and educational programs; supporting artists with production and presenting facilities; and operating a multi-use public arts centre in downtown St. Catharines for diverse artistic expression and community engagement.

Revenues of $211,053 from the Cultural Capital Investment Fee, an increase of 3% over 2024, will fund the PAC’s Capital Reserve, the PAC’s Equipment Reserve and the St. Catharines Cultural Investment Program (SCCIP).

FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

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STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION As at December 31, 2025, with comparative information for 2024

2025 2024 ASSETS Current assets: Cash $ 1,289,977 $ 1,171,187 Investments 827,269 1,191,873 Accounts receivable 179,067 83,786 HST receivable 43,030 5,834 Prepaid expenses 184,813 208,836 Inventories 34,640 23,959

$ 2,558,796

$

LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS Current liabilities: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 911,888 $ Due from the City of St. Catharines 41,726 Deferred revenue 650,739 Advanced ticket sales and donations 264,088 Deferred grant revenue 176,915

$ 2,045,356 $ Post-employment benefits

$ 2,090,662

NET ASSETS Unrestricted Internally restricted:

Sustainability reserve $

Encumbrance reserve

Planned giving reserve Restricted

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FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

45,306

2,685,475

928,292 1,051 738,254 272,808 68,101 2,008,506 45,700

$

2,054,206

-

-

341,492 $ 24,142 100,000 2,500 468,134

$ 2,558,796

$

433,357 47,912 150,000 631,269 2,685,475

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS Year ended December 31, 2025, with comparative information for 2024

2025

2024

Revenue: Earned revenue $ 3,146,284 $ Government grants 168,526 Municipal investment 1,922,628 Fund development 430,730 Contributions and other 834,975 Cultural Capital Investment Fund revenues 211,053 Transfer from equipment reserve 49,126

$ 6,763,322 $

3,103,837 80,585 1,893,205 426,683 979,685 205,149 6,689,144

Expenses: Administration $ 1,693,074 $ Building operations 434,789 Education and learning 72,476 Finance and other 163,581 Fund development 315,783 Marketing and box office 610,128 Office 105,813 Programming, production and rentals 3,319,760 Cultural Capital Investment Fund expense 211,053

$ 6,926,457 $

1,704,498 410,729 51,885 178,519 184,764 619,184 118,202 3,140,686 205,149 6,613,616

Excess (deficiency) of revenues over expenses

$ (163,135)

$

75,528

FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

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Pink Martini, photograph by Giant Shoe.

CHOIR! CHOIR! CHOIR! | Partridge Hall

FIRSTONTARIO PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE | REPORT TO COMMUNITY 2025

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