Rainbow Stage is a quintessential Manitoba summer experience

Posted July 04, 2022 | Author Breanne Sewards

Did you know that Canada's largest and longest-running outdoor theatre is right here in Winnipeg? Rainbow Stage is opening its doors once again for an exciting season of open-air theatre.

Every family in Manitoba has their summer tradition. Rainbow Stage is mine. This unique, seasonal theatre experience brings an enormous amount of talent, much of it local, to the stage for two musical performances each year.

The setting

In fair Kildonan Park, we set our scene...

Wander into this lush, green park during any month in the summer and you'll find locals and tourists alike enjoying its verdant lawns - picnic-ing, BBQing, playing volleyball or just enjoying a walk through various trails. Pass by the Witch's Hut for a fun photo op and cross the nearby bridges that add to the fairytale scene.

Check out the Kildonan Park Outdoor Pool and mark it on your list to return to with the kiddos in tow for some classic summer fun in the sun.

Before your evening at Rainbow Stage, be sure to make a reservation at the park's on-site restaurant, Prairie's Edge. The patio overlooks the pond which features whimsical, colourful lamp posts and resident ducks.

Prairie-inspired fare

Prairie's Edge features locally-inspired dishes like pickerel fish and chips and the popular smash burger. Since we attended the matinee, we ordered fish tacos and grilled cheese off the lunch menu. 5 stars!

As you make your way to Rainbow Stage, you can't miss the colourful exterior, featuring painted murals that beckon you into the domed amphitheatre. Make your first stop at the concession stand (if you ask me, popcorn is a must-have for the Rainbow Stage experience) and take a few moments to marvel at the 3,000-seat theatre, designed by architects Ernest J. Smith, Dennis H. Carter and Walter Katelnikoff.

The show

There's a reason why Rainbow Stage has such a loyal audience. When it comes to the production value of its shows, Rainbow Stage punches way above its weight when considering that it's a seasonal operation. No matter which show you attend, expect top-notch musical theatre talent -- and you didn't even need to travel to New York to see it.

Rainbow Stage presents two shows each summer. The 2022 season lineup includes The Hockey Sweater (June 30 to July 17) and The Wizard of Oz (August 18 to September 4).

Add this quintessential Manitoba experience to your summer list! Buy your tickets to Rainbow Stage here.

Travel Manitoba staff was hosted by Rainbow Stage, who did not review or approve this story.

About The Author

Hey! I'm Breanne, Editorial Content Specialist for Travel Manitoba. First to jump in the lake and last to make it down the River Trail. Lover of croissants, cats, and croissant-shaped cats. Got a story idea? Email me at bsewards@travelmanitoba.com.

Editorial Content Specialist