About Charlotte Street Arts Centre
The Charlotte Street Arts Centre (CSAC) is Fredericton’s cherished community arts hub. Housed in a completely renovated red-brick school built in 1884, the venue combines historic charm with modern programming (exclaim.ca ). The Italianate-style building retains its tall windows, sandstone trim and cupola from the original Charlotte Street School (one of Fredericton’s oldest school buildings) (www.historicplaces.ca ) (exclaim.ca ). After an extensive 2005 restoration, it reopened as a multi-purpose arts centre operated by Fredericton Arts & Learning Inc., a nonprofit devoted to nurturing arts in the capital. In 2009 the site earned Provincial Historic Site status, underscoring its architectural and cultural importance (exclaim.ca ) (www.historicplaces.ca ). Inside, CSAC houses two galleries (including the Charlotte Glencross Gallery) that display rotating visual-art exhibits. The foyer and balcony are filled with public art, and a “Culture Garden” on the back lawn features seasonal outdoor installations. Charlotte Street Arts Centre encompasses a snug auditorium, workshop rooms, artist studios and even a café, making it a unique, all-in-one creative space for Fredericton’s arts community.
Events and Programming
CSAC hosts a wide variety of live events year-round. In the intimate Jim Myles Auditorium it presents concerts (jazz, folk, indie, rock and solo acts), comedy shows, dance performances and theatre productions. Local singer-songwriters and bands frequently headline – past performers have included Port Cities, Donovan Woods and the Cancer Bats (exclaim.ca ) – and touring acts often pop up at specialized festivals. The centre is a regular venue for downtown-wide events like the Flourish Music & Arts Festival, Living Roots Music Festival, Frostival (winter music series) and the Fredericton Music Festival, bringing diverse acts into the space. Educational programming is also a big focus: improv classes, art workshops, youth camps and creative skill-building workshops happen year-round. In addition, monthly and seasonal series take advantage of CSAC’s resources – for example, “Piano Mondays” invite local pianists to play the centre’s Yamaha grand, and artists-in-residence produce new work inspired by the building. The two on-site galleries open daily (Mon–Sat, 9am–8pm; admission by donation (www.charlottestreetarts.ca )), hosting juried shows or member exhibits; an annual year-end public showcase features community artists working in painting, sculpture, mixed media and more. In short, visitors to CSAC might enjoy anything from a polished jazz quartet to a grassroots poetry slam or a children’s dance recital – all in a friendly, community-oriented setting.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Charlotte Street Arts Centre events are generally sold online and at the door. Show dates are listed on CSAC’s website and social media and can be searched by month; each event has a “Buy Tickets” link (typically through platforms like Zeffy or TicketTailor). For popular concerts and festivals, it’s wise to book early because the 150-seat hall can sell out. Doors usually open about 30–60 minutes before showtime. In-person purchase may be possible at the box office or in person (the office is open weekdays around 9:30am–1pm) if any seats remain. Ticket prices range by event: small community shows or talk nights may be low-cost or donation-based, while headline concerts and special-series nights often run $20–$30 for adults (with occasional discounts for seniors, students or members). Keep an eye on timing – tickets often go on sale a few weeks before the event. CSAC encourages signing up for its email newsletter to get announcements and presale alerts. If a show is sold out, sometimes last-minute door sales (cash or credit) may be released, but there is no guarantee. For very popular touring acts, other authorized resellers (local record shops or community kiosks) might also handle ticket distribution; these are typically noted on the event listing if they exist.
Seating and Layout
The Charlotte Street Arts Centre auditorium is a single-level, thrust-stage space seating roughly 150 people in movable chairs (plus a cocktail bar at the rear) (www.charlottestreetarts.ca ). There is no fixed balcony; audience seating is flat-floor style. For seated shows, chairs are arranged facing the stage, which occupies one end of the room (stage area is about 32×21 feet (www.charlottestreetarts.ca )). For general-admission standing shows (e.g. dance parties or loud rock concerts), the chairs can be cleared to accommodate up to ~200 people (www.charlottestreetarts.ca ). Every seat enjoys good sightlines: because the stage is not raised very high, front-row seats put you very close to the performers, while even chairs at the back (or standing at the bar) offer clear views thanks to the room’s modest size. The room has been acoustically tuned for clarity – CSAC notes its “superior acoustics” – so that music and voices carry well throughout (www.charlottestreetarts.ca ). In practice, the best seats depend on your preference: sit up front for an up-close experience, or mid-level for balanced sound; the back row is good for a quick exit and for leaning on the bar. There are no permanent VIP sections or aisles of obstructions, so the venue feels egalitarian – just find an available chair or space. The small green room offstage (18×16 feet) with the Yamaha piano is reserved for performers only and is not accessible to the public. Overall, Charlotte Street’s intimate flat-floor theater means there’s rarely a “bad seat,” but earlycomers can choose closer vantage or claim a comfy spot near a side wall if they prefer.
Getting There and Parking
Charlotte Street Arts Centre is centrally located at 732 Charlotte Street in downtown Fredericton (exclaim.ca ), just a few blocks from Queen and King Streets. By car, GPS will take you to the back of the school building on Charlotte St. Note that this area is in Fredericton’s downtown parking zone: there is **no free on-site parking**. Metered on-street parking is the closest option (meters typically run around $1.50–$2.00 per hour, with 2-hour limits) (www.fredericton.ca ). Immediately north and east of CSAC are several city-operated lots and parkades: the Frederick Square (Skypark) and York Street garages both charge about $1.50/hour (www.fredericton.ca ), and the Officers’ Square lot is about $2.00/hour (www.fredericton.ca ). These lots do allow overnight parking with a permit (useful for nearby hotel guests), but on event nights you will usually pay hourly rates. There are also daily permit zones on some adjacent streets (A, B, C and Q zones at $5-$30/day (www.fredericton.ca )), but unless you plan to stay all day it’s simpler to use the garage. Always check posted signs: permit zones and meter enforcement vary by hour.
For those using public transit, Fredericton Transit buses serve downtown frequently on weekdays, with somewhat less evening service. A number of routes circulate through the city core near Charlotte Street; for example, buses that loop around Queen/King /Charlotte will have stops within a block of the Arts Centre. Specific routes change periodically, so ride planning is easiest via the city’s MyRide/Google Maps trip planner. The nearest bus stop is at Queen and Charlotte (a 2-minute walk) or at Queen and King (5 minutes). All Fredericton bus drivers will lower the ramp for mobility-accessible boarding, and every bus has a large front rack for bikes.
Rideshares and taxis are also a practical choice in Fredericton. Checker Cab (506-458-6161) and ABC Taxi are the main local companies, both with apps or phone service. Uber has expanded into Fredericton, so an UberX or Lyft can often be summoned downtown. On late nights (especially after 11pm, when transit service ends), arrange a taxi or Uber in advance to avoid waits. For pedestrians, CSAC is easy to reach on foot: it’s about a 10-minute walk from the major downtown hotels (east of the Saint John River) or from Riverfront Park. In good weather, arriving 10–15 minutes early on foot can be as quick as dealing with parking.
Inside the Venue
Entering Charlotte Street Arts Centre, you’ll find a welcoming foyer (off Charlotte Street) leading upstairs to the main lobby. At the door, staff or volunteers will scan your ticket (show on phone or printed) and show you to the coat rack or seating. There is a small coat check area usually staffed for big shows (especially in winter), so you can hang heavy jackets and bags. The atmosphere inside is casual and homey, with walls hung by gallery art and strings of lights often visible during events. The audience area is flat and open; there is a bar at the back serving beer, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks during concerts (the venue holds a permanent liquor license and bar service, with proceeds supporting CSAC) (www.charlottestreetarts.ca ).
For refreshments, the Arts Centre has a hidden gem: **Milda’s Pizzas & More**, a wood-fired pizza café in the basement (www.charlottestreetarts.ca ). Milda’s serves artisan pizzas, soups, salads and European-style coffee. It’s open for dine-in and takeout on many menu items during the day and often remains open for dinner on show nights. In fact, CSAC members get a discount there: 732 Crew cards earn 10% off orders over $20 (www.charlottestreetarts.ca ). Whether you want a slice before the show or a post-concert meal, Milda’s offers a fun, informal dining option right under the venue (TripAdvisor reviews note it as a beloved piece of the CSAC experience (www.tripadvisor.ca )). Other than pizza, there are occasional snack stands or hot chocolate on-site during winter events, but no full kitchen.
Restrooms are located on each level (one on the ground floor near the café and one in the lobby upstairs, including an accessible washroom). The building is fully wheelchair-accessible – a newer addition on the east side houses an elevator that reaches the lobby and studio floors – so audience members can sit on the main level near the entrance if needed. CSAC’s sound and lighting system is high-quality: the venue boasts state-of-the-art stage lighting and a house sound mixer and speakers for live shows (www.charlottestreetarts.ca ). House rules are straightforward: low-profile photos (no flash) of the stage may be allowed at some concerts, but check each event’s guidelines. Large bags and outside food are discouraged in the auditorium; security is minimal but common sense prevails. If you have mobility needs or questions, the front desk is happy to assist on the night of the event.
Nearby Amenities
Charlotte Street Arts Centre sits in a bustling part of Fredericton, so you’ll find plenty of amenities within a short walk. In the building itself, Milda’s Pizza & More (basement) is the main eatery (www.charlottestreetarts.ca ), but a block up Charlotte is Plan B Pizza (a casual eatery on Regent Street) and Harvest Moon Diner (Charlotte at Regent) if you want classic diner fare. A bit farther north where Charlotte meets Queen Street is The Charlottetown (on Queen) and the Crowne Plaza hotel. Downtown, about 3–4 blocks east on Queen/King, offers dozens of options: gastropubs like Lunar Rogue, The Joyce (Crowne Plaza pub), and Snooty Fox; coffee shops and bakeries; and international eateries (Thai, Indian, Japanese). The nearby Beaverbrook Shopping Centre on Woodstock Road is a 5-minute drive east if you need chain restaurants or late-night grocery. At the intersection of King and Charlotte is the popular “Little Monsters” dessert shop, and on Regent Street there’s a New York-style bagel shop and casual pubs.
For drinks before or after shows, the Crowne Plaza’s Joyce Pub (Queen/Regent) is a short stroll, offering dozens of local craft beers (wanderlog.com ) and comfort food. Lunar Rogue and Snooty Fox (both at Queen/King) are lively bar/restaurants with cocktails and pub fare. If you enjoy craft beer, Graystone Brewing (a brewpub) is a few blocks east on Regent. There’s no shortage of coffee shops nearby (Tim Hortons, Coffee Culture, etc.), and a Beer Store on Regent for take-home bottles.
Several hotels are conveniently close. The Crowne Plaza Lord Beaverbrook (Queen/Regent) is about a 5-minute walk away, as is the Hilton Garden Inn on Queen Street. A new Marriott TownePlace Suites (Brunswick at King) and a Holiday Inn Express (Regent near Queen) are within two blocks east. Even the cozy University of New Brunswick residence (Summer Hotel) at Regent/College is only a 10-minute walk. If you need lodging, these downtown options make it easy to catch a late concert without worrying about a long commute.
What Makes This Venue Special
Charlotte Street Arts Centre is beloved because it blends grassroots spirit with rich history. Unlike a sterile commercial theatre, CSAC feels like an arts collective clubhouse – run by volunteers and art lovers, it highlights local creativity at every turn. The building itself is unique: an ornate red-brick schoolhouse with carved date markers (1892 on the entrance) and classical details (www.historicplaces.ca ). Culturally, it was the first independent artist-run centre in Fredericton, and it continues to champion emerging artists. Its founder, Charlotte Glencross, left a legacy through the Glencross Scholarship and gallery, so the place carries a personal, community-rooted identity.
Artists adore performing here for the acoustics and vibe – many have said the room’s warmth and attentive audiences make for memorable shows. The sense of intimacy is palpable (audience and performers are just feet apart), and there’s often a post-show chat at the bar or pizza cafe. Iconic “Charlotte Street moments” include surprise dance performances in the yard (Culture Garden), open-mic launch nights, and the annual holiday fundraiser shows that have become community traditions. Over the years, Fredericton audiences have danced at flash-mob-style art battles and laughed at comedy nights in what used to be a silent classroom. This creative reinvention of an old school is a point of pride: it’s not just another theatre, but a multi-layered arts ecosystem. Its walls have seen performances by Atlantic Canada legends and amateur showcases alike.
Finally, CSAC’s mission is to be accessible and diverse – from free community jams to professional tours, it serves all ages and backgrounds. This inclusiveness (evident in programs like ARTreach and Back to Our Roots) helps it stand out. For locals, Charlotte Street Arts Centre is more than a venue: it’s a home for Fredericton’s arts scene, where people gather to learn, create and celebrate culture in an authentic, welcoming setting.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The entire building is accessible. There is an elevator in the new accessible wing that reaches all floors, and there are dedicated wheelchair spaces in the auditorium for those not wanting to climb stairs (www.charlottestreetarts.ca ). Companion seating can be arranged if needed. Accessible washrooms are available on the main floor. Service animals are welcome (NB law).
What to Bring: Always bring your ticket (on phone or print) and ID if you plan to drink or partake in age-restricted events. A light jacket is wise (the auditorium can be cold in summer or warm after full seating in winter). If you’re parking on the street, bring coins or a credit card for meters/pay stations.
Dress Code: Casual attire is fine. Some larger events (like jazz nights or comedy) may encourage “business casual” but there are no formal requirements.
Entry and Bags: Doors generally open 30–60 minutes before curtain. Security is minimal, but large bags may be asked to be checked at the coat area. No outside food or drinks are allowed in the auditorium (except bottled water). Photography without flash is usually okay, but video recording is typically prohibited to respect performers.
Common Mistakes: Newcomers sometimes underestimate downtown parking – aim to arrive at least 20–30 minutes early if driving, to find a spot. Also, remember that popular shows (especially limited-capacity ones) often sell out in advance on the CSAC mailing list sale, so don’t wait until the last minute for big-name acts.
Children/Family: Some events are family-friendly (especially daytime festivals and children’s workshops). However, evening concerts or adult comedy may be 18+, so check the event description. Strollers can be parked in the lobby area but not taken into the performance space (again, staff can assist).
Membership and Volunteer: Consider signing up for the “732 Crew” membership for extra perks (10% discounts on classes, Milda’s Pizza etc. and priority notice of events (www.charlottestreetarts.ca )). Also, volunteers are always welcome – duties often include ushering, bartending or backstage assistance.
Weather: The centre is fully indoors, so shows go on rain or shine. In winter, roads can be icy; the main entrance is shoveled but wear appropriate shoes.
Overall, treat CSAC like a friendly community event space: arrive early, mingle, enjoy the art on the walls, and you’ll have a richer experience. The small staff and regulars love answering questions, so never hesitate to ask about anything from best seats to where an artist gets their inspiration!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the seating capacity of Charlotte Street Arts Centre?
The Jim Myles Auditorium at Charlotte Street Arts Centre holds about 150 people seated (with a small bar at the rear) and can accommodate up to 200 standing for general-admission events (www.charlottestreetarts.ca ). Seating is flexible (movable chairs), so organizers can set up rows for concerts or clear space for dance/party events. The stage area itself is roughly 32\' x 21\' (www.charlottestreetarts.ca ), giving a closely intimate experience.
What types of events are held at Charlotte Street Arts Centre?
CSAC hosts a wide range of cultural events: live music (jazz, folk, pop, rock, world music), comedy nights, dance performances, theatre, poetry slams and improv shows. It also runs workshops (e.g. pottery, writing, dance), gallery exhibits and community programs for all ages. Festivals like Living Roots or FLOURISH often use the venue for featured concerts. In short, you can encounter everything from a touring jazz trio to a local open-mic or a children’s art exhibit there.
How do I buy tickets and when do they go on sale?
Tickets are typically sold through CSAC’s official website on each event’s page. Look for “Details & Tickets” next to show listings. Some events may also offer door sales if not sold out. There is no fixed season; tickets go on sale whenever a new event is announced (often weeks in advance). For popular shows, it’s best to reserve as soon as possible. Signing up for the CSAC newsletter or following their social media ensures you catch sale dates early.
Does Charlotte Street Arts Centre have accessible seating and facilities?
Yes. CSAC is fully wheelchair-accessible: a new lift connects the ground floor to the main lobby and auditorium level. Wheelchair spaces are available in the seating area (the front row or side rows can accommodate mobility devices). There are accessible washrooms, and stair rails where needed. Staff are happy to help arrange ideal seating. All city buses serving the venue are also accessible, with ramps for wheelchairs (www.fredericton.ca ). (Pregnant persons or anyone needing assistance can be helped by the team as well.)
Where can I park near Charlotte Street Arts Centre and what are the costs?
There is no free parking at CSAC. On-street metered parking is available around the building (typically $1.50–$2.00/hour), with signs indicating maximum durations (www.fredericton.ca ). Nearby off-street options include the Frederick Square (Skypark) and York Street garages at about $1.50/hour (www.fredericton.ca ), and surface lots like Officers’ Square for around $2.00/hour (www.fredericton.ca ). These are short-term parking spots. Some adjacent streets have daily permit zones ($5/day), but for a single event a garage is usually simplest. Always check posted signs for regulations and consider arriving early to find a spot.
What public transit serves the Arts Centre?
Fredericton Transit buses run through the downtown core near Charlotte Street. Several routes (including central loops and express lines) stop along King, Queen or Charlotte streets, all within a few minutes’ walk. For example, you can disembark at Queen & Charlotte St., or at Queen & King St., and it’s just a short walk to 732 Charlotte. Schedules vary, so the easiest way is to use the Transit’s MyRide app or Google Maps. Note buses run regularly on weekdays and Saturdays, but service slows nights and Sundays.
Can I bring food or drinks into the venue?
Generally no – outside food and drinks are not allowed in the auditorium. However, inside CSAC there is Milda’s Pizzas & More , a full-service cafe in the basement that offers wood-fired pizza, snacks and beverages (www.charlottestreetarts.ca ) (www.tripadvisor.ca ). You can buy a meal or coffee at Milda’s before or after the event (or at intermission for longer shows). The main lobby also has a bar during most evening events where you can purchase beer, wine or water. So while you can’t bring in your own burgers or soda, the center provides tasty options on-site.
Are there age restrictions or dress codes?
There is no strict dress code – most patrons wear casual or business-casual attire. Some themed events (like gala concerts) might encourage dressier clothing, but it’s never mandatory. Age restrictions depend on the specific event: family-friendly shows welcome kids, whereas late-night comedy or concerts with alcohol (for which CSAC holds a liquor license (www.charlottestreetarts.ca )) will be 19+ (the legal drinking age in NB). Always check the event details on the CSAC website; any 19+ rules will be noted. Children are generally welcome at daytime or designated family events, but strollers can’t be used inside the seating area (there is space in the lobby instead).
Does CSAC have Wi-Fi or phone service?
CSAC does not advertise a public Wi-Fi network for guests, and cell phone service may be spotty in parts of the old brick building. Most visitors rely on mobile data (which is usually decent on Charlotte Street) or disconnect during shows. If you need to stay online, it’s best to do so before entering the auditorium or step outside during intermission. The staff can help with urgent messages if needed.
What is the Frank J. Myles Auditorium?
“Jim Myles Auditorium” is simply the name of the main performance space inside the centre (named after a long-time supporter of CSAC). It is the 150-seat hall where most concerts and shows take place. When ticket websites or programs mention “Jim Myles,” they are referring to this auditorium. The seating and layout details (capacity, stage size, etc.) all apply to the Jim Myles Auditorium. Sometimes locals just say “the auditorium” or “Charlotte Street” interchangeably for the venue.
Is photography allowed during events?
It depends on the event. For gallery open-houses or art shows, guests may take photos of the displayed art (as a courtesy, check with staff first). During performances, casual snapshots with smartphones (no flash) are usually permitted unless otherwise announced. Flash photography and video recording are generally prohibited to avoid distracting performers. If you plan to take pictures, be courteous to others – and if in doubt, ask an usher. The relaxed atmosphere means low-key photo-taking is tolerated, but active filming for social media is discouraged.
When should I arrive before a show?
Arrive at least 15–30 minutes before curtain. Doors usually open half an hour to an hour prior, especially for ticketed concerts. Getting there early lets you find parking or pick up snacks at Milda’s (which often closes around 1–2 hours before showtime, as listed on its fridge board). If it’s a sell-out event, you’ll also want extra time to get through the door and find your seat. Being early also allows you to enjoy the art on the lobby walls or settle coats and bags without rush. Shows typically start promptly at the advertised time.
