More and more people are taking advantage of Chatham-Kent’s arts and culture sector.
Information reports presented to council on June 8 showed attendance at the Capitol and Kiwanis Theatres surpassed 62,000 during the 2025-26 season. According to Theatre Manager Devon Hansen, the venues generated nearly $9.5 million in visitor spending and economic activity.
Attendance at the Chatham-Kent Museum also increased, rising from 5,890 visitors in 2024 to 6,520 in 2025.
CK Museum Curator Stephanie Saunders attributed the increase in part to expanded operating hours, with the museum adding four hours of operation each week, including additional evening programming.
Councillor Trevor Thompson said he was encouraged by the growth at both facilities.
“Over the last four years the usage of our museums has nearly doubled, and that is a really good news story that might have gotten overlooked,” said Thompson.
“I know often we hear about museums being empty or underutilized and I think we are on a very good trajectory here.”
The Capitol Theatre recently completed its 15th anniversary season and plans to introduce print-at-home and mobile ticketing this fall, while the museums will continue offering a full slate of exhibitions, educational programming and community events.