Emmy-winning producer Andrew Barnsley (Schitt’s Creek) and his Project 10 Productions (Son of a Critch) business partner Brandon Davis announced Tuesday they have founded a new company, Toronto-based Latitude 47, which they say will build a $50-million film and television studio in Greater St. John’s, Newfoundland.
Calling it the first purpose-built soundstage east of Montreal, Latitude 47 Studios will be built in the town of Bauline, 30 minutes northwest of downtown St. John’s and 18 kilometres from St. John’s International Airport, a Latitude 47 press release said. The project is currently in the design phase with construction expected to begin by late 2026.
Phase 1 of the project will feature 75,000 square feet of film and television infrastructure, including two 20,000-square-foot soundstages and one 10,000-square-foot soundstage. An additional 50,000 square feet of support and office space will also be built. Later phases will see the construction of another 25,000-square-foot soundstage, a back lot for external shoots and buildouts, a potential educational facility in association with the College of the North Atlantic, post-production facilities and equipment rentals.
“After having shot in Newfoundland and Labrador for years — and being the first generation of my family to be raised away — I can’t wait to come home and welcome the world to this superb filming destination,” Barnsley said in Latitude 47’s press release. “Latitude 47 will grow and sustain production in Newfoundland as a year-round industry.”
“As the Newfoundland and Labrador production sector continues to break records, there is an identified need for the kind of facility Latitude 47 provides,” Davis said. “Along with the favourable tax incentives, world-class natural beauty, and first-class creators and crews, Latitude 47 proudly confirms Newfoundland as a sure-fire production hub for domestic and international producers.”
Photos of (l-r) Andrew Barnsley and Brandon Davis borrowed from Latitude 47’s website
