By Shazia Nazir, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Milton Reporter
The FirstOntario Arts Centre Milton has announced a dynamic 2025–26 season, featuring a mix of celebrated Canadian musicians, thought-provoking speakers, high-energy performances and free community programming aimed at making the arts more accessible than ever.
From iconic performers like Jann Arden and the James Barker Band to unique cultural voices such as Twin Flames and the Men of the Deeps, the new season reflects Milton’s growing diversity and commitment to inclusive, community-based programming.
“Each season’s programming is shaped by a range of factors, including a focus on Canadian talent, community demographics, audience feedback, past ticket trends and current interests,” said Tammy Townsend, Manager of Cultural Services for the Town of Milton. “Our goal is to offer something for everyone in Milton.”
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Among the season’s highlights is a free community performance by Twin Flames, the award-winning husband-and-wife duo known for blending folk, rock and Indigenous music with storytelling and humour. Scheduled to coincide with the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Sept. 30, the show is part of the Centre’s ArtSparks program—an initiative launched to give all children in Milton an opportunity to attend a performance.
“In 2021, Milton Town Council endorsed its first Culture Plan, which includes five strategic Avenues of Action,” said Townsend.
“Avenue 3 focuses on supporting Indigenous cultural resurgence, and this performance by Twin Flames aligns with that commitment.”
An evening show was also added to the daytime school-focused performance to ensure broader community access across all age groups—regardless of financial circumstances.
“By offering free programming, we’re removing barriers and opening the door to more people,” said Townsend.
“It’s about equity, connection, and making the arts part of everyday life.”
The FirstOntario Arts Centre continues to grow as a cultural anchor for the community, with programming that spans multiple genres and disciplines. Over the years, community engagement has evolved through efforts like ArtSparks and by welcoming diverse acts that reflect Milton’s changing demographics.
“Since launching ArtSparks, we’ve expanded access to the arts for more children and families in Milton,” Townsend said.
“Recent performances like Bollywood dance and Cirque Kalabanté brought vibrant, global storytelling to our stage.”
This season, audiences can expect major names in Canadian music, including country chart-toppers the James Barker Band and Dallas Smith, as well as Canada’s Celtic rock legends the Mudmen, celebrating 25 years and more than 3,000 live shows.
The Centre will also host the Men of the Deeps, a choir made up of working and retired coal miners from Cape Breton whose performances have captivated audiences with tradition-rich harmonies and stories.
In April 2026, Just for Laughs returns to Milton, adding a comedic note to the season.
Beyond entertainment, the 2025–26 lineup features events that explore deeper themes. A notable inclusion is What You Won’t Do for Love, an intimate theatrical experience with environmentalists David Suzuki and Tara Cullis. The event will spotlight their lifelong partnership and how love can be a force for environmental change.
“The arts play a vital role in our community—strengthening the economy, fostering inclusion, and enhancing overall well-being and quality of life,” said Townsend.
“Programs like this reflect how the arts can both entertain and educate.”
Jann Arden, a Canadian music icon with 19 Top Ten singles and a Canadian Music Hall of Fame induction to her name, will return to the Centre with a holiday concert featuring selections from her 2015 album A Jann Arden Christmas.
As Milton continues to grow rapidly, so does the demand for inclusive and engaging cultural programming. The FirstOntario Arts Centre has responded by doubling down on its mission to ensure the arts are a part of everyday community life.
“Fresh off the success of our 2024–25 season, we’re back with a brand-new, all-Canadian lineup,” said Steve Palmer, Director of Recreation and Culture at the Town of Milton.
“We invite you to gather and be inspired through captivating performances that speak to the heart of what it means to come together as a community.”
Townsend said the Centre remains committed to that vision through continued investment in free and low-cost programs, cross-cultural storytelling and artist diversity.
“There’s something powerful about seeing your own story—or a story new to you—on stage,” she said.
“It creates empathy, excitement, and a sense of belonging.”
To view the full lineup and learn more, visit the FirstOntario Arts Centre Milton website or follow the Centre on Facebook and Instagram. Residents can also sign up for the Encore newsletter to stay informed about upcoming shows, contests and community opportunities.
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