NEWS EVENTS
October 28, 2025 111
Live Nation plans to redesign the Budweiser Stage as the RBC Amphitheater
Today, Live Nation Canada announced a multi-year partnership with Royal Bank of Canada to redevelop its Ontario Place music venue. The completely remodeled facility will be called the RBC Amphitheater under the new agreement. The name change is effective immediately and marks the next chapter for the longtime waterfront venue, which opened in 1995 as the Molson Amphitheater and operated as Budweiser Stage from 2017 to the present.
A top view of the RBC Amphitheater designed by EwingCole for Live Nation
The announcement event, moderated by eTalk co-host Tyrone Edwards and attended by representatives from Live Nation and RBC, unveiled plans for a $100 million redevelopment that will transform the site into a year-round destination by 2030. The three-story venue, designed by EwingCole, would be located on East Island's Ontario Place south of Remembrance Drive.
Tyrone Edwards speaks to the crowd, picture by Anthony Teles
“This is one of the busiest amphitheaters 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, excellent sightlines and a variety of premium experiences.”
Jordan Zachary, Global President, Venue Nation, Live Nation Entertainment, Image by Anthony Teles
The renovation of the three-story building would introduce a new, acoustically tuned canopy with an operable fabric covering, allowing the amphitheater to operate year-round while maintaining its outdoor appeal during the summer months. The seating would accommodate approximately 9,000 fans in winter, while the summer program from May to October would provide a festival atmosphere by incorporating the signature open-air lawn area, although use would be possible all year round. To improve access and people flow, a new pedestrian bridge is planned, as well as a viewing platform with elevator access to the lawn.
Stage at RBC Amphitheater designed by EwingCole for Live Nation
The project is designed according to the Toronto Green Standard and includes sustainability measures such as material reuse and energy efficient systems. The redevelopment is led by Live Nation's Green Nation initiative, which sets sustainability standards for live events and venues worldwide.
“Live music is a true growth driver. Canada's live music industry generated nearly $11 billion in 2023 and created 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 throughout the economy.”
Dave McKay, President and CEO of RBC, image by Anthony Teles
The transformation is expected to bring major cultural and economic benefits to Toronto. Once completed, the revamped venue is expected to attract more than 1.5 million visitors per year and create hundreds of new jobs in the entertainment, tourism and hospitality sectors. The redevelopment, funded by private investment, would strengthen the city's position in the global tourism sector while driving new business for nearby hotels, restaurants and local retailers.
The renovation process would take place in several phases over the next five years. The current venue is set to operate under its new branding from 2026, with existing signage being phased in ahead of this season. Construction is scheduled to begin in the fall of 2027, which will result in a temporary closure of the site while major structural work is carried out. Live Nation expects to reopen the amphitheater for its first outdoor season in summer 2029, with the fully enclosed four-season configuration completed by summer 2030. A temporary venue solution is currently being explored to host concerts during construction.
RBC Amphitheater designed by EwingCole for Live Nation
“RBC has donated over $140 million to music and arts organizations across Canada, supporting over 50,000 Canadian artists,” said Mary Depaoli, RBC executive vice president and chief marketing officer. “Through Avion Rewards, Canadians will soon be able to use points to purchase tickets to any Live Nation Canada show, a first of its kind in Canada.”
Mary Depaoli, Executive Vice-President and CMO of RBC, image by Anthony Teles
The redesign also includes larger hospitality areas, more dining options and a new observation deck with city and water views. Accessibility is a key focus, with an elevator to the lawn and new pathways allowing smoother movement throughout the site. A dedicated entrance for RBC customers and fan activation zones with ticket upgrades and giveaways would enrich 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 amphitheater we know and love, and an exciting commitment to the future,” Edwards said.
Presenters and attendees for the RBC Amphitheater announcement, image by Anthony Teles
UrbanToronto will continue to monitor the progress of this development, but in the meantime you can learn more in our database file linked below. If you'd like, you can join the discussion in the associated Project Forum thread or leave a comment in the designated area on this page.
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