Comedian, actor and theatrical manager, George Summers established the Mountain Park Theatre here in 1902. It was one of the earliest theatres of its kind in Ontario. For twelve successful seasons, "Geo. H. Summers Theatrical Enterprises" performed in Hamilton in the summer and toured during the winter. Most of the repertoire was popular melodrama, much of it written by Summers himself. On stage, he was particularly renowned for his portrayal of Rip Van Winkle. After fire destroyed the theatre in December 1914, Summers pursued an acting career in Canada and the United States. He later wrote articles on the history of theatre in Ontario and scripted comic sketches for the CBC.

Location

Mountain Park Avenue and Upper Wentworth Street, the site of the former theatre complex, Mountain Brow Park, Hamilton

Themes

• Arts and culture
• People