The Ghosts of King's Playhouse, Georgetown: Echoes from the Stage



Nestled in the heart of Georgetown, Prince Edward Island, the King's Playhouse is a cultural treasure with a rich history dating back to 1887. As one of the oldest continuously operating theatres in Canada, it has played host to generations of actors, musicians, and audiences. But beyond the applause and the spotlight lies a more spectral side to this beloved venue a legacy of hauntings and ghostly encounters that have fascinated visitors and performers alike for decades.

A Theatre Steeped in History

The original King's Playhouse served as both an entertainment venue and town hall, making it a central hub of civic and cultural life in Georgetown. Though the building was tragically destroyed by fire in 1983, it was lovingly rebuilt and reopened just two years later restoring its legacy as a beacon for the arts.

Yet, even after its reconstruction, many claim that the spirits of the original theatre never left. The energy of decades of performances, emotions, and perhaps even unfinished business is believed to linger in the new structure especially backstage and in the auditorium.

The Haunting of Captain George

The most well-known ghost said to haunt the King's Playhouse is Captain George, a former 19th-century sea captain who lived in the area and is believed to have had a deep love for the theatre. According to legend, he attended shows regularly and even contributed to the theatre’s early success.

Since the fire and subsequent rebuild, numerous unexplained occurrences have been attributed to Captain George’s spirit, including:

• Unexplained footsteps echoing on the stage and in the wings after hours
• Stage lights flickering or switching on by themselves
• Cold spots felt by actors mid-performance
• Doors opening and closing with no one nearby
• Personal belongings of staff or performers mysteriously moving or vanishing only to reappear in odd places

Some performers have reported feeling a gentle but unmistakable presence in the dressing rooms or watching silently from the balcony.

A Friendly Specter

Unlike the malevolent spirits often found in haunted lore, the ghost of Captain George is described as benevolent and curious, more of a guardian than a menace. Some staff members have even found comfort in his presence, saying that he’s a part of the theatre’s charm. On more than one occasion, actors have felt what they describe as a "reassuring tap on the shoulder" during rehearsals almost as if Captain George is giving his blessing before a performance.

Ghost Tours and Local Lore

The haunting of King's Playhouse has become part of local folklore, with ghost tours and paranormal investigations taking place from time to time. While no hard evidence has confirmed the presence of Captain George, the consistency of reports over the years keeps the legend alive. Locals say that the spirit is particularly active during theatre season perhaps drawn to the energy of live performances and the communal joy of storytelling.

A Theatre with a Soul

Whether you're drawn to the King's Playhouse for its excellent theatre productions, its historical significance, or its paranormal intrigue, one thing is certain: this beautiful building has a soul perhaps quite literally. Captain George's story reminds us that places filled with passion, art, and community don’t just fade away. Sometimes, they linger in the rafters, behind the curtains, and in the hearts of those who dare to take the stage.

So the next time you take a seat at King's Playhouse, listen closely. You might just hear the footsteps of a ghostly sea captain, forever enchanted by the magic of the theatre.