News Release April 14, 2026

At the end of this school year, the Burnaby School District will be transitioning to exclusive use of the Michael J Fox Theatre.

In addition to events and performances that are school or District-related, the theatre is also currently used by the community at large. Unfortunately, it is not financially viable for the school district to maintain usage of the theatre beyond school and District related purposes. As a result, effective July 1, 2026, the Theatre will no longer be available for community bookings.

Burnaby Board of Education Chair Kristin Schnider:

“As a Board, we are extremely proud of the theatre’s lasting legacy and contributions to the performing arts in Burnaby. While we know this planned shift in how the Michael J Fox Theatre is used may be disappointing for some, the fiscal reality is that we cannot afford to manage the theatre for community usage beyond the current budget year.”

Recognizing the importance of the venue to the wider community, in January of 2025 the District announced jointly with the City of Burnaby that the two parties were in talks about the future of the theatre’s operations. The City of Burnaby continues to consider the feasibility of the City’s involvement with the theatre’s future.

Located on Burnaby South Secondary’s property, the Michael J Fox Theatre was operated by an independent, non-profit society when it opened in 1993. In January 2025 the District shared that, due to management changes within the Michael J Fox Theatre Society, responsibility for the theatre changed such that it rested solely with the Burnaby School District. The District’s primary fiscal responsibility is toward education for students.

The Theatre will remain open for business in all the usual ways until the end of the District’s financial year, which is up to and including June 30, 2026. 

Posted April 14, 2026