Video memories highlight what Hamilton could lose as the theatre’s year-end matching deadline approaches

IMMEDIATE RELEASE 09-01-2026

Hamilton, ON – A teenager’s first kiss. A marriage proposal in front of a packed theatre. A film festival finding a place to grow. A welcoming space that helped people stay connected during difficult times.

These were just some of the memories shared during a recent weekend at The Westdale, when the historic nonprofit theatre invited community members to record their stories in a pop-up video booth.

While the stories span generations, they share a common message: The Westdale is much more than just a place to watch a film or attend a concert. For 91 years, it has been a place where Hamilton gathers, celebrates, creates and belongs.

Now, with only months remaining in The Westdale’s $1-million fundraising campaign, those stories are helping answer one important question:

What would we do without The Westdale?

The campaign has received a significant boost from a local family foundation that is matching every donation, dollar for dollar, up to $400,000. However, the matching opportunity is only available until December 31, 2026, creating an urgent need for community support before the end of the year. 

For longtime Westdale members David and Stefanie Thorne, watching movies together has always been part of their relationship, something they describe as their love language. When David decided it was time to propose, he could not imagine a more meaningful location than The Westdale.

But this was no ordinary proposal.

Their story, along with a growing list of others shared by community members, can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLS0A9aesT5b0.

Bernadette Curtis recalled sharing her first kiss at the theatre. 

“We were in the old seats that were so snug you couldn’t get out,” she said.

Community member Julie Menzies described The Westdale as a central gathering place and a source of comfort during challenging times. 

“During the pandemic, we would get our coffee and stand in the entranceway here and gather with friends,” said Menzies. “It just felt like home, like a place that protected us.”

The Westdale has also helped countless nonprofit organizations raise awareness and support for their own causes. Nathan Fleet, Director of the Hamilton Film Festival, credits the festival’s growth in part to having access to The Westdale as a venue.

“If The Westdale weren’t here, where would this community gather, perform, celebrate, learn and be together?” said Ed McMahon, Chair of The Westdale Board. “We have expanded on the legacy of the original theatre and emerged as Hamilton’s premier arts and culture hub. We need to ensure The Westdale continues to serve future generations. As members of our community often say to us: “Where else but The Westdale?”

A Matching Opportunity with a Deadline

Every donation made before the end of the year will have twice the impact, helping The Westdale move closer to its $1-million campaign goal.

“We are incredibly fortunate to have this matching opportunity in front of us, but it comes with a deadline,” said Alysha Main, Executive Director of The Westdale. “We are asking our community to come together one more time and help us take full advantage of every matching dollar available. Whether you make a one-time gift, become a monthly donor or attend one of our fundraising events, you are helping ensure that future generations will have their own ‘Remember When’ stories to share.”

How YOU can help. 

Donate Today
Every dollar donated today through the end of the year will be matched (up to $400,000) Donations can be made in-person at the theatre or online at thewestdale.ca/donate.

Share your “remember when” story 

Capture your memory on your phone and upload it at: https://thewestdale.ca/remember-when/

Attend films, concerts and events
With 364 days of programming each year, there are countless opportunities to buy tickets to attend shows, events and films. 

Tell a friend, or five!                                                                                                              

The Westdale is a place for many. It’s where Hamilton remembers, gathers, creates, celebrates and belongs. And now, the community is being asked to help make sure the next “Remember When” moments can still happen here.

To donate, share a story, or learn more, visit: thewestdale.ca/remember-when/

To arrange interviews with, 

Alysha Main
Executive Director
The Westdale

Stefanie & David Thorne 
The Proposal

Contact: 

Daniela Suarez – Community Outreach & Marketing Coordinator, The Westdale
e: community@thewestdale.ca p: 289-678-3600

The Westdale has been part of the community since 1935. When the theatre faced an uncertain future in 2016, Hamiltonians came together to save it. The building was restored and reopened in 2019 as a nonprofit cinema, arts venue and community hub.

Today, The Westdale continues to present independent and repertory film, live music, talks, comedy, community events, exhibitions and special programming, while also providing space for nonprofit organizations and community partners who rely on affordable, accessible arts and event venues.