IMMEDIATE RELEASE 07-07-2026

Hamilton, ON – Do you remember your first “big screen” movie experience? What did you see? Who were you with? And what snacks did you get?  For 91 years, The Westdale has been the backdrop of countless memories be it a first movie, date, kiss, or even proposal, and now those stories are being collected and shared, on the big screen and beyond.

The Westdale is inviting Hamilton to share the special moments they have experienced inside the theatre as part of this year’s fundraising campaign to raise $1M before the end of 2026.

At the heart of the campaign is one simple question: What would we do without The Westdale?

More than a theatre, The Westdale is a place where memories are made, stories are shared, and “remember when” moments continue to live on. As the campaign enters its final five months, Hamiltonians are being invited to reflect on what The Westdale has meant to them and to support its future in any way they can.

This could be why Bernadette Curtis joined The Westdale’s board so many years ago. She shares, “I had my first kiss here in the old seats that were so snug, you couldn’t get out! Today, The Westdale is so spectacular, oozing with joy, tears, drama and laughter and that’s why I love The Westdale.”

Bernadette’s full story, captured on video, can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/oby7BtlbOmY

To help capture those stories, The Westdale has opened a new in-theatre recording booth. Guests, artists, community partners, non-profits and neighbours are all welcome to record a short video sharing what The Westdale means to them and a favourite memory from their time there. Can’t be there in person? You can still take part by recording a video on your phone and submitting it digitally. 

“I love hearing the unique stories that our patrons share with us,” says The Westdale’s Executive Director Alysha Main, “I’m excited to capture and document these special moments”.

For some, it may be a personal memory. For local organizations, it might be the night they shared their mission, welcomed their community, or hosted a record-setting event. 

This is a chance to share what The Westdale has meant to you. And the next time you’re there, you may just see yourself on the big screen!

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

How YOU can help. 

When you can share your “remember when” story 

Visit thewestdale.ca/remember-when to book a film slot, available between 10am and 1pm on Saturday, July 11th or Sunday, July 12th. This is an opportunity to record your Remember When story about The Westdale in-person. *A complimentary popcorn voucher will be handed out to everyone story teller who pops in. 

Film slots all booked or can’t make it in-person?
You can still take part by recording a video on your phone and submitting it at https://thewestdale.ca/remember-when/

Make a donation
Every dollar donated during the matching campaign will be doubled, helping The Westdale move closer to its $1 million goal. – You can make a one-time donation or join The Westdale as a monthly donor, where every gift you make in 2026 will be matched! Donations can be made in-person at the theatre or online at thewestdale.ca/donate.

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!
Please share your memories and invite others to do the same and support the campaign. 

The Westdale is more than a theatre. It is where Hamilton remembers, gathers, creates, celebrates and belongs. And now, the community is being asked to help make sure the next “Remember When” moment 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

Ed McMahon
Board Chair
The Westdale

Bernadette Curtis
Board Member
The Westdale

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.