Theatre in the Wings: a hidden gem
In the heart of Belleville’s revitalized Downtown District lies a cultural gem that’s quietly making an impact on the local arts scene: Theatre in the Wings. Tucked inside a modest storefront at 30 Bridge St. East, this intimate 40-seat venue is part of the River and Main Theatre Company, and while it’s still relatively unknown to many residents, its reputation is quickly growing thanks to its unique programming and welcoming atmosphere.
Artistic Director and President Peter Paylor describes the theatre as a “hidden gem”—a compliment that also hints at one of its biggest challenges: visibility. Despite hosting live performances since late 2019, many patrons still walk through the door for the first time saying, “I didn’t know this was here.”
That’s changing, as more locals discover its charm and the creative energy that fills the space. Theatre in the Wings was established with strong community roots. With support from local visionary Paul Dinkel, who saw the need for a cultural anchor in the area, the once-retail space was transformed into a cozy and acoustically sound venue during the COVID-19 pandemic. “(Paul) went out of his way to make this place perfect for us.”
The timing was tough, but the passion behind the project endured, and the theatre eventually opened its doors to audiences eager for meaningful, small-scale productions.
Programming at Theatre in the Wings focuses on straight plays rather than musicals, though smaller-scale musical performances have also graced the stage. The company aims to produce six full productions annually, supplemented with staged readings and occasional live music.
“We’re so fortunate that we’ve had this outpouring of live music in Belleville recently. The acoustics are great (in the theatre).”
The venue offers a rare experience for its patrons—there’s no bar or food service to distract audiences, just an intimate setting where every note or line of dialogue is heard clearly. Tickets are priced accessibly at $25 (fees included), making high-quality theatre more approachable for local audiences.
This fall, Theatre in the Wings will present “The Theatre in the Wings Canadian National 10-Minute Play Festival” in September, and “Act Locally”, a series of four short plays written by Belleville-based playwrights in October. This new production replaces a previously planned American play, a decision made in support of cultural sovereignty and the theatre’s ongoing mission to spotlight local voices.
One of the theatre’s most recognizable features is the mural on its exterior wall—a pair of vibrant wings that have become a popular photo backdrop. Painted by Elizabeth Dinkel and her daughter just before the theatre was established, the mural was originally created as an Instagram-friendly installation, but it aligned perfectly with the theatre’s name and mission. The “wings” reference is also a clever nod to theatre terminology, referring to the offstage areas on either side of the performance space.
Despite its modest size, Theatre in the Wings has established itself as a vital part of Belleville’s downtown identity. With a clear focus on storytelling, community engagement, and thoughtful programming, it continues to attract new audiences, performers, and supporters. For those seeking a memorable night of live performance in a warm and welcoming space, this hidden gem is well worth discovering.
For more information, visit Theatre in the Wings.
