EST. 1939
ABOUT US
Step into The Lasalle and rediscover what going to the movies is supposed to feel like—immersive, intimate, and unforgettable. More than just a theatre, The Lasalle is an experience, it's a timeless atmosphere that makes every show feel like a premiere. Whether you’re planning a date night, a family outing, or a solo escape into another world, The Lasalle offers the kind of big-screen magic you simply can’t stream at home. From the first preview to the final credits, it’s not just about watching a film—it’s about feeling part of something special.
You can also experience the unmatched energy of live theatre, where every moment unfolds right before your eyes with authenticity and heart. In this intimate space, the connection between performers and audience creates a powerful atmosphere that makes each show feel immediate and unforgettable. The Lasalle is also proud to champion the next generation of artists through its vibrant youth theatre company, giving young performers a place to grow, create, and shine. A night at The Lasalle isn’t just entertainment—it’s a celebration of storytelling, talent, and community.
OUR HISTORY
The LaSalle was designed by Harle B. Long, a local Kirkland Lake architect; it was financed and constructed by KL investors who formed "Cinemas Rousson-Trudeau Ltd." The contractors and suppliers who contributed to the construction of the LaSalle were all local Kirkland Lake businesses and trades people.
The LaSalle was a state of the art facility intended to present first run films and live theatrical productions. It was constructed at a cost of $125,000.00 in 1939.
In its first incarnation the LaSalle: presented 3 new programs weekly; booked films and live performances provided through "RKO Vaudeville" and local talent; ran continuous showings from 1:00 p.m. daily; and presented 3 weekly midnight shows.
Alas, this ambitious schedule was cut short by the onset of World War II. The LaSalle closed in mid 1940 and was used as a Pentecostal Tabernacle until it re-opened as a first run film theatre in 1945.
The theatre operated from 1945 (with several short closures) until January of 2012 - when it finally closed.
The LaSalle Theatre is one of the very few intact remaining Art Deco theatres in North America; this is due to the dedication of the original owners, the Kaplan family and their associated companies (who puchased the theatre in 1945), Wendy Sadoquis (who purchased the theatre in the mid 80's and ran it for 17 years), and Robert Kasner and family (who purchased the theatre in the early 2000's) and who undertook several important renovations including an overhaul of the original electrical system.
As of May 22, 2013 the LaSalle Theatre is now under the ownership of "SaveTheLasalle" - a non profit corporation.
Meet our Board
After retiring from a couple of "lifetimes" in the Travel industry, I was elected Co-Chair in June of 2025 for SaveTheLaSalle Charity. It has been exciting and rewarding to help my hometown envision that a centre for the Arts for Northeast Ontario would be situated in Kirkland Lake. After seeing the amazing talent in this region for the last couple of years, it has made me laser-focused on ensuring we continue the tremendous work with our Young Actors Company. Our Board has been working hard to capture the hearts of Corporations that do business in our area to help us to restore the iconic theatre to its original splendour, while creating a stunning facility to attract new residents and support the local Art community!
Fun Fact: I worked at both The LaSalle Theatre and The Strand Theatre through my high school years in Kirkland Lake.
Peggy MacDonald, Co-Chair and Volunteer Fundraiser
Meet our Interns
Charlotte Kiervin Starkey (she/her) hails from Mono, Ontario and is currently finishing her 4th year of the Bachelor of Dramatic Art Honours program at the University of Windsor. She has filled a variety of different roles within the world of theatre: The Play That Goes Wrong (Lighting Operator), Little Women (Assistant Stage Manager), The Wedding Party (Assistant Director), Macbeth (Assistant Director), The Sound of Music (Set Designer), The Love Club (Writer) and is honoured to have played the role of LaSalle intern last fall.
Fun Fact: She is excited to debut her first original play, The Love Club, this summer at the LaSalle!
Charlotte Kiervin Starkey, Intern Fall 2025