Project Details
Public
Fundy Amphitheatre
Program: Architecture/Cultural/Public
Photography: Julian Parkinson
At the edge of McLaren Pond, amongst towering evergreens, the dark silhouette of a geometric structure is nestled into the landscape of Fundy National Park. Fundy National Park encompasses 20 kilometres of dramatic shoreline along the Bay of Fundy, famous for experiencing the highest tides in the world. The amphitheatre provides a welcoming and contemporary space for the approximately 300,000 annual visitors to experience the park’s live performances and interactions.
The theatre shell employs a cedar-clad interior and a black, standing-seam metal exterior. These materials unify to create a multi-faceted geometric form that flows with the park’s natural landscape. Angles are thoughtfully designed to accommodate acoustics and uninterrupted views of the stage. They also serve to compliment the surrounding vista, rather than disrupt it. The entire structure rests on helical anchors, creating minimal impact on the land that lies beneath.
The entire facility is barrier-free and encompasses a back-of-house area, change rooms, a green room, and storage space to accommodate various types of regular programming at the park. Pivoting interior doors secure the space during the offseason and double as curtain legs for stage productions while the theatre is employed.