The Imperial Theatre is thrilled to honor Brian Austin’s 25 years of dedicated service, including the past 10 years as Executive Director. Under Brian’s visionary leadership, the theatre has more than tripled its operating budget, enhanced youth programming, workshops, production values, and capital improvements to the Imperial Theatre—all funded through ticket sales, donations, 50/50 draws, fundraising, and sponsorships. Unlike most theatres of its size, the Imperial Theatre operates without municipal or provincial funding, a testament to the resourcefulness of Brian and the Board of Directors.
Throughout his career, Brian has brought renowned acts to Sarnia, including the Barenaked Ladies, Randy Bachman of The Guess Who and Bachman Turner Overdrive, Howie Mandel, Jann Arden, Colm Wilkinson, Rick Mercer, and more, making the Imperial Theatre a premier destination for high-caliber entertainment. "It has been an honor making my life’s work creating a supportive community where performers can express themselves and building a venue where Sarnia can come to celebrate arts, culture, and life,” says Brian.
Over the last 25 years, Brian has played an integral role in 130 Theatre Sarnia productions, both on and mostly off the stage. His involvement spans beloved shows such as 42nd Street, Anne of Green Gables, Tarzan, The Producers, Mamma Mia, The Little Mermaid, and most recently, The Last Romance.
The Imperial Theatre also serves as home to many cherished cultural groups, including the Nightingale Chorus/Hidden Talents, The Sarnia Concert Association, Sarnia Lambton Rebound, The International Symphony Orchestra, Great Lakes Dance Academy, Steppin Up Dance Company, and many more. "I am proud to work for Theatre Sarnia, all of these groups, and our patrons every day," reflects Brian, who has committed his career to fostering community and creativity.
Brian also continued to work at full force over the theatre’s lengthy closure due to the pandemic, keeping it financially afloat, getting his hands dirty and working with the hired companies on the extensive renovations (physically helping to manually remove and re-install all 600 of the theatre seats), doing active outreach to the rest of the community, tirelessly preparing for the future, and keeping the dream alive.
Looking ahead to Theatre Sarnia’s 100th anniversary in 2027/2028, Brian, the Board, and various committees are excitedly preparing a range of centennial projects, including capital improvements and celebratory events, to mark this historic milestone.
With deep appreciation, the Imperial Theatre celebrates Brian Austin’s exceptional contributions to Sarnia’s cultural landscape and his enduring passion for making the arts accessible to all.