Your Insider Guide to Prairie Theatre Exchange (And Why You’ll Love It)
Sure, Winnipeg has the grand Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre and the big-name shows at the Centennial Concert Hall. But if you want something fresh, local, and a little more intimate, Prairie Theatre Exchange is the place to be.
I always leave PTE feeling like I’ve seen something fresh. There’s something electric about the way stories are told here—they’re raw, real, and really stay with you long after the show ends.
So, if you’re looking to skip big productions and see shows that make you think (and laugh), here’s a guide to getting the most out of your Prairie Theatre Exchange visit.
Where is Prairie Theatre Exchange?
Prairie Theatre Exchange sits on the third floor of Portage Place Mall, right in downtown Winnipeg at 393 Portage Avenue, Unit Y300, Winnipeg. It’s nestled in the heart of the historic Exchange District—easy to reach by car, bus, or on foot.
How to Get to Prairie Theatre Exchange
By Car:
First, head north on Fort Street toward Portage Ave, then turn left onto Portage Ave (Route 85 West). Once you’re parked, look for Elevator 6 near the Carlton entrance—it’ll take you to the third floor where PTE is located.
By Uber, Taxi, or Transit Plus:
After 6 PM, the only accessible mall doors are on Portage Avenue at Edmonton Street, near the bus stop, so that’s the best drop-off spot in the evening.
Another option is using the Portage Place parkade—vehicles can enter for free just to drop someone off and exit without paying. For the easiest access to PTE, ask to be dropped off near Elevator 6, which takes you straight to the 3rd floor.
By Bus:
Since PTE is in downtown Winnipeg inside Portage Place Mall, most major bus routes will drop you off either right in front of the mall or just across the street.
By Bike:
Start by heading south toward Fort Street, then hang a right onto Fort; keep cruising as it turns into Notre Dame Ave (Route 57 West), and take a left when you hit Ellice Ave. From there, make a left onto Carlton St, then a quick right onto Portage Ave.
Plus, good news for cyclists! PTE now has a permanent bike rack just inside the lobby doors—just remember to bring a lock.
Best Time to Visit Prairie Theatre Exchange
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The best time to visit Prairie Theatre Exchange is in the spring or fall, when their season lineup is in full swing and the Winnipeg arts scene is buzzing. Catching a weekday evening show means smaller crowds and easier parking, too.
Things to Know about Prairie Theatre Exchange
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History
Prairie Theatre Exchange started in 1972 as the Manitoba Theatre Workshop (MTW), created to replace the recently closed Manitoba Theatre School. It began by offering performance classes for kids and teens, and now it’s become a hub for local talent.
This theatre helped launch groups like the Manitoba Puppet Theatre and Confidential Exchange—a rare outlet for local playwrights at the time. It also hosted touring shows from across Canada.
Box Office Hours
| Non-Performance Days: | Performance Days: |
| Monday to Saturday: 1 PM – 6 PM | Tuesdays to Saturdays: 1 PM – 6 PM |
| Sundays: 12 PM – 3 PM |
Parking
While there’s street parking nearby, your best bet is the heated underground parking at Portage Place—it’s secure, patrolled, and offers direct access to Prairie Theatre Exchange via Elevator 6 (right near the Carlton Street entrance).
It’s one of the most affordable downtown parking options (only $7 for a weekday evening)—a steal compared to the $12 to $14 you might pay near the Concert Hall.
To park there, just enter off Vaughan or Carlton Street and find a spot. You’ll need to pay first via one of the nine payment machines throughout the two levels of the parkade (credit card only); you can also download the ParkMobile app to pay from your phone.
Accessibility
Prairie Theatre Exchange is fully accessible for mobility needs, with wheelchair-friendly seating, accessible washrooms, and features like stair railings and walker storage. The layout includes level seating in the front row, and the staff are ready to assist.
For those with hearing or vision challenges, PTE offers hearing assist devices, ASL-interpreted shows, and audio-described performances. All available showings come with a special ticket price and a free companion seat.
PTE also hosts relaxed performances with a gentle environment, ideal for neurodiverse guests or anyone who prefers a low-stress setting. On top of that, all washrooms are gender-inclusive and designed with privacy in mind.
Service Animals
Prairie Theatre Exchange welcomes guide dogs and service animals—just let the Box Office know in advance so they can reserve an aisle seat for you. PTE staff may also ask for confirmation that your animal is a certified service animal.
What to Do in Prairie Theatre Exchange
Catch a live theatrical show
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Watching a theatrical performance at PTE is always so much fun. Over the years, it has premiered bold, original works like The Flats and Post-Democracy, adding to a lineup that’s seen over 340 productions (nearly half of them world premieres).
Since PTE is also home to a theatre school that trains around 700 students a year, you could catch some of their shows. As a whole, I think PTE has a welcoming and unpretentious vibe that’ll keep you coming back.
Watch unique film screenings
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If you’re a fan of foreign movies, indie films, or musicals, attend one of PTE’s one-night-only film screenings. I attended a screening of Les Filles du Roi, a feature film musical told in English, French, and Kanien’kéha (Mohawk), and I really enjoyed it.
Watching a unique film with like-minded people makes you enjoy it a bit more, and after the show, you can have an interesting conversation in the lobby with other patrons.
Check their socials, particularly their Instagram, for upcoming film screenings.
Attend a PTE Pairings event
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PTE Pairings is a PTE signature fundraiser—perfect if you love great wine, amazing local eats, and supporting the arts.
For only $120, you get access to over 50 wines curated by The Winehouse. You’ll also get food samples from Winnipeg’s most loved spots—like Tito Boy, For Us Bakery, Sharecuterie, and more.
The event runs just over two hours, and sometimes, there could also be live music and cake decorating. Check their socials for the next PTE Pairings event and its inclusions.
Become a PTE volunteer
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PTE is practically run by volunteers—each performance depends on a team of up to 12 volunteers in roles like ushers, ticket scanners, raffle sellers, lounge servers, and more. There’s even the occasional weekday task like helping with mailouts.
In return, PTE volunteers get full training, on-site support, and a Volunteer Handbook. Plus, you’ll receive two complimentary tickets to the show you’re working, free parking, and an invite to the end-of-season Volunteer Appreciation Event.
Rent the facility
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Prairie Theatre Exchange offers a unique, affordable venue in the heart of downtown, complete with heated underground parking and flexible space options. It has a range of studios, rehearsal halls, and its dramatic mainstage to suit all kinds of gatherings.
The space has welcomed everything from workshops and recitals to conferences and private dinners. While renters handle their own setup and catering, PTE provides access to a soundstage and professional AV support.
Where to Eat near Prairie Theatre Exchange
The Merchant Kitchen
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Website: http://www.themerchantkitchen.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themerchantkitchen/
Address: 314 Donald St
Hours: Mon – Wed: 4 PM – 10 PM
Thurs – Sat: 4 PM – 11 PM
Contact: (204) 615-2278
The Merchant Kitchen is just a 9-minute walk away from PTE—a stylish downtown spot known for its bold fusion of Asian and Latin American street food. I love grabbing dinner here because of its great drinks and outdoor seating.
The menu is a delicious mix of spicy fried rice, tacos, and inventive small plates. My recommendation? Grab the delicious Wagyu Brisket (it’s tender and perfect with a side of house-made sauces), and pair it with the spot’s signature cocktail, Aston Margarita.
Peasant Cookery
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Website: http://www.peasantcookery.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peasantcookerywpg/
Address: Travellers Building, 283 Bannatyne Ave
Hours: Monday: 4:30 PM – 10 PM
Tue – Thurs: 11:30 AM – 10 PM
Fri – Sat: 11:30 AM – 11 PM
Contact: (204) 989-7700
Peasant Cookery is another nearby spot (about a 4-minute drive away) that serves comfort food in a cozy, rustic space. They’re big on house-made everything—they cure meats, pickle veggies, and craft dishes from locally sourced ingredients.
My fave here is the yummy Aged Cheddar Gnocchi—it’s rich, creamy, and definitely worth the hype! And if you’re going here on a Wednesday, don’t miss their Buck-a-Shuck Oyster Night—amazing fresh oysters that won’t break the bank.
Where to Stay near Prairie Theatre Exchange
Hampton Inn by Hilton Winnipeg Downtown
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Website: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/ywgwghx-hampton-inn-winnipeg-downtown/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hamptoninn.winnipegdowntown/
Address: 330 York Ave
Hours: Check-in time: 3 PM
Check-out time: 11 AM
Contact: (204) 942-0101
Hampton Inn is only a 4-minute drive away from Prairie Theatre Exchange (15 minutes away if you prefer walking). It’s a top pick for tourists and locals since it’s also conveniently close to iconic landmarks like the Manitoba Museum and the Forks Market.
Guests can enjoy free Wifi, huge in-room TVs with streaming, a fridge, and even a microwave for late snacks. The delicious complimentary hot breakfast buffet is a big win, and after a PTE show, you can grab a casual bite or cocktail at Tivoli Cafe.
Delta Hotels
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Website: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/ywgdw-delta-hotels-winnipeg/overview/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deltahotelswinnipeg/
Address: 350 St Mary Ave
Hours: Check-in time: 4 PM
Check-out time: 12 PM
Contact: (204) 942-0551
Just a short 10-minute away from PTE, Delta Hotels is another option if you’re looking for a downtown hotel near the theatre. You can enjoy comfy beds, free WiFi, flat-screen TVs, and luxe touches like heated bathroom floors and designer toiletries.
There’s also an on-site fitness center and an indoor/outdoor pool combo, perfect after a day at the theatre. Plus, dining is easy with two on-site options nearby: a cozy British-style pub and a relaxed bistro offering upscale comfort food.