About the Centre

Vision: A home for the arts in Labrador.

Mission: To provide a welcoming space for the performing arts, serving the people of Labrador.

Values:
-Professionalism
-Integrity
-Community
-Accessibility

The Lawrence O'Brien Arts Centre is:
‍-committed to high standards and striving for excellence;
-welcoming, empathetic, and supportive;
-consistent; trustworthy, and ethical;
-diverse; culturally aware, open, and inclusive.

The Lawrence O’Brien Arts Centre is a vibrant, community-operated performing arts venue located in Happy Valley-Goose Bay. We're proud to be a space where creativity, culture, and connection thrive.

Operated by the Eastern Labrador Arts Alliance (ELAA), the Centre is a hub for performances, workshops, cultural celebrations, and educational opportunities. We serve artists, audiences, schools, and community groups across Labrador.

We believe in creating a welcoming and accessible space for all — one that encourages participation and inspires a lifelong appreciation for the performing arts.

2002

2009

Today

A Stage Built by Community, for Community

The Lawrence O’Brien Arts Centre is more than a theatre — it’s a celebration of community spirit, creativity, and perseverance. While our doors officially opened in 2009, the story began in 2002 with a papier mâché fish full of wishes and a dream for a dedicated performance space.

Local artists and community members formed the “Wish Fish Committee” and later the Eastern Labrador Arts Alliance (ELAA), lobbying and fundraising for years. With provincial and federal support, their vision took shape — a community theatre attached to the high school, serving both students and the wider Labrador region.

Named in honour of the late MP Lawrence O’Brien, the Centre opened with two nights of celebration, including the unveiling of Labradoria, a clay mural created by local students.

Today, we continue to thrive thanks to dedicated staff, volunteers, and the ELAA board. Whether you're on stage or in the audience, you're part of a story that started with a wish — and continues with every performance.

Named in honour of the late MP Lawrence O’Brien, the Centre opened with two nights of celebration, including the unveiling of Labradoria, a clay mural created by local students.

Whether you're here to take the stage or take in a show, you're part of a story that started with a wish — and continues with every performance.