ABOUT US
Floral Canyon is a new performing arts studio located in the historic Fletcher Church in Chatham-Kent. As new members of the community, we’re honored to breathe new life into this cherished building, transforming it into a creative hub for actors and dancers to learn, grow, and showcase their talents.​
THE BEGINNING
The history of The Old Fletcher and its bloom into Floral Canyon - The Fletcher originated back when the Fletcher Presbyterian Church was built and opened their doors November 4th, 1883. The building was raised and remodelled in 1924, reopening January 25th 1925, later becoming part of the United Church of Canada in June of that same year. Fast forward over an entire century later, to May of 2024, the United Church of Canada sold the Fletcher and its rebirth into the home of Floral Canyon began.
With our daughters passion for performing arts, and a flair for creative use of space and innovation and an innate desire to build our future and combine with that something unique we could bring to this community, our family knew we found something special in The Old Fletcher Church.
OUR INSPIRATION
Nestled in the heart of the Santa Monica Mountains, Laurel Canyon became the birthplace of some of the most iconic music of the 1960s and ’70s, a haven for artists like Joni Mitchell, Jim Morrison, and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. For many, it’s a place synonymous with creativity, musical innovation, and artistic collaboration, where all artists were drawn to its inspiring natural beauty and vibrant artistic community.
Our name, though rooted in a local context, is a nod to the legacy of Laurel Canyon and the rich history of artistic energy it represents. Just as Laurel Canyon became a sanctuary for musicians, poets, and painters, we aim for Floral Canyon to be a creative sanctuary for the next generation of performers—actors, dancers, and artists of all kinds—looking for a place to hone their craft, express their passions, and build a community.
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Much like Laurel Canyon, Floral Canyon will not just be a place to learn but a space where people come together, cross-pollinate ideas, and inspire one another. Our goal is to create a studio where the arts meet in unexpected ways, whether through acting classes blending with dance, or a performance space that doubles as a creative incubator for those looking to make their mark. We hope to foster that same energy of collaboration, creativity, and connection that defined the music scene in Laurel Canyon all those years ago.
THE FUTURE
In our vision for the future, we see Floral Canyon growing into more than just a studio. We hope to become a cultural hub where artists, performers, and creators from all walks of life can gather to explore, create, and thrive. And just like the musicians who found inspiration in the hills of California, we believe that our studio—set in the heart of Chatham-Kent—will be the perfect place for artists to find the inspiration they need to grow and succeed.
So, as we begin our journey at Floral Canyon, we carry with us the spirit of Laurel Canyon, hoping to create a similar environment where art and creativity can flourish. Here’s to the music, the dance, the acting, and all the beautiful possibilities that lie ahead.
