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Today, Live Nation Canada announced a multi-year partnership with Royal Bank of Canada to redevelop their music venue at Ontario Place. The entirely rebuilt facility will be called RBC Amphitheatre under the new agreement. The name change takes effect immediately, marking the next chapter for the long-running waterfront venue that opened as Molson Amphitheatre in 1995 and which operated as Budweiser Stage from 2017 until now.
The announcement event, hosted by eTalk co-host Tyrone Edwards and featuring representatives from both Live Nation and RBC, unveiled plans for a $100 million redevelopment that would transform the site into a year-round destination by 2030. The three-storey venue, designed by PARTISANS + Gensler in collaboration, would rise on the east island of Ontario Place, south of Remembrance Drive.
“This is one of the busiest amphitheatres in the world, and it will only get busier as it becomes a year-round venue,” said Jordan Zachary, President of Global Venues for Live Nation Entertainment. “Every detail has been carefully considered to deliver exceptional fan experiences: unmatched sound quality, superior sightlines, and a variety of premium experiences.”
The three-storey redevelopment would introduce a new acoustically tuned canopy with an operable fabric enclosure, allowing the amphitheatre to operate year-round while maintaining its outdoor appeal during the summer months. Seating would accommodate approximately 9,000 fans in winter while summer programming from May to October would feature expanded seating by incorporating its signature open-air lawn section for a festival atmosphere, even as year-round use becomes possible. A new pedestrian bridge is planned to improve access and crowd flow, alongside a lookout deck with elevator access to the lawn.
Designed to meet the Toronto Green Standard, the project incorporates sustainability measures such as material reuse and energy-efficient systems. The redevelopment is being guided by Live Nation’s Green Nation initiative, which provides sustainability standards for live events and venue operations worldwide.
“Live music is a real engine for growth. Canada’s live music industry generated nearly $11 billion in 2023, and more than 310,000 jobs across the country,” said Dave McKay, President and CEO of RBC. “When people come together, good things happen in our communities and across the economy.”
The transformation is projected to deliver major cultural and economic returns for Toronto. Once complete, the reimagined venue is forecasted to draw more than 1.5 million attendees per year, supporting hundreds of new jobs in entertainment, tourism, and hospitality. The redevelopment, funded through private investment, would strengthen the city’s position within the global touring circuit while driving new business for nearby hotels, restaurants, and local retailers.
The redevelopment process would unfold in several phases over the next five years. The current venue is set to operate under its new branding beginning in 2026, with existing signage gradually transitioning ahead of that season. Construction is planned to begin in Fall 2027, prompting a temporary closure of the site while major structural work takes place. Live Nation expects to reopen the amphitheatre in Summer 2029 for its first outdoor season, with the fully enclosed, four-season configuration completed by Summer 2030. A temporary venue solution is being explored to host concerts during the construction period.
“RBC has donated over $140 million to music and arts organizations across Canada, supporting over 50,000 Canadian creators,” said Mary Depaoli, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of RBC. “Through Avion Rewards, Canadians will soon be able to use points to buy tickets to any Live Nation Canada show, a first of its kind in Canada.”
The redesign also includes larger hospitality zones, more dining options, and a new observation deck with city and waterfront views. Accessibility is a major focus, with elevator access to the lawn and new pathways to support smoother circulation throughout the site. A dedicated entrance for RBC clients and fan activation zones featuring ticket upgrades and giveaways would add to the visitor experience, while the open-lawn seating and city views that define the venue’s character would remain part of the design.
“This is a nod to the history and legacy of the amphitheatre we know and love, and an exciting commitment to the future,” said Edwards.
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EDITOR'S NOTE: This story has been updated to reflect the design partners of PARTISANS + Gensler.
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