Centre In The Square
Centre In The Square (CITS) is Southwestern Ontario’s largest and most active performing arts centre, serving as a cultural cornerstone in downtown Kitchener since its grand opening in 1980. With a mission to enrich the community through the transformative power of live performance, CITS presents, produces, and hosts a dynamic range of programming that spans music, theatre, comedy, dance, family entertainment, and community events.
At the heart of the venue is its 2,047-seat Raffi Armenian Theatre, widely regarded as one of Canada’s premier acoustic spaces. Known for its exceptional sound quality and sightlines, the theatre has welcomed a diverse roster of artists and productions, from international touring acts and Broadway blockbusters to intimate solo performances and symphonic concerts. The venue is home to the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony, and a proud partner of many local organizations including KW Glee, MT Space, JM Drama, and various multicultural festivals that reflect the region’s growing diversity.
Over the past four decades, Centre In The Square has hosted millions of audience members and thousands of performances, bringing the world to Waterloo Region while helping local stories find their spotlight. The venue has featured performances by cultural icons such as Gordon Lightfoot, Blue Rodeo, Leonard Cohen, Diana Krall, Chris Hadfield, The Tragically Hip, and Jann Arden, alongside world-class touring productions like The Book of Mormon, Les Misérables, Rent, and STOMP.
Beyond ticketed performances, CITS plays a vital civic role through its community engagement initiatives, education programs, and youth outreach, including discounted student matinees, workshops with visiting artists, and collaborative programming with area schools and post-secondary institutions. The venue also supports emerging creators through access to professional-grade facilities and mentorship from in-house and touring professionals.
CITS has recently undergone a strategic renewal, strengthening its commitment to inclusion, innovation, and accessibility. With renewed investment in digital marketing, audience development, and data-driven programming, Centre In The Square continues to evolve in response to the needs of a modern, tech-forward population while honouring its legacy as a gathering place for shared cultural experience.
Located in the heart of the Innovation District, CITS bridges the artistic and entrepreneurial communities, contributing significantly to the economic and social vitality of Waterloo Region. The venue generates millions in local tourism revenue annually and serves as a marquee destination for corporate events, film shoots, and civic celebrations.
As it looks to the future, Centre In The Square remains focused on three key pillars: artistic excellence, community connection, and long-term sustainability. With a bold vision and deep roots, it continues to be a place where unforgettable performances unfold — and where art and audience meet in harmony.
