Handmaid’s Tale transforming Hot Dog Alley ahead of shooting scenes

There’s a Hollywood buzz in Crystal Beach starting to take shape.

The Handmaid’s Tale, a critically-acclaimed show adapted from the book by Canadian author Margaret Atwood, has returned to capture scenes in the area.

Since last week, behind-the-scenes staffers from the Emmy-winning show have been seen working along Derby Road, the section commonly known as Hot Dog Alley.

They are painting storefronts to look as they are wanted by the show runners, said Phil Smith, a local Realtor and restauranter who owns most of the units where it appears scenes will be shot.

In front of Planks Canada, a rainbow wall containing more than 30 colours will be covered in a film-like material, painted, and then peeled off to return to its original appearance.

“It’s a pretty big undertaking, but it’s pretty cool to see it unfold,” said Smith, who told Fort Erie Radio that he was approached a few months ago by the show through the Town of Fort Erie’s economic development department.

“There’s an incredible amount of detail, planning, and thought that goes into a production like this,” he said. “As we get closer, I’m sure it will be even more impressive.”

Last week, a photo was circulating on social media of the show’s lead actor Elisabeth Moss holding a film slate marking the beginning of season six. It appears that she was standing on Erie Road.

Smith said stores will likely have to close on days where filming is taking place, but local businesses in the area are mostly excited to have the show and many people who work on it in the area.

“They’ve been really, really good–exceptional at reaching out to all the shops,” said Smith.

He said on busy days there are about 20 people working to get the set ready.

There are some who appear to be carpenters, painters, and people taking measurements. Many of them have been eating at his restaurant, South Coast Cookhouse.

“Having new people be introduced to an area is great,” said Smith. “I can’t wait to see what the final product is.”

Maureen O’Donnell, a publicist for the TV series, said she could not offer any information about the show, details about what is being shot in Crystal Beach, and for how long.

“We must protect our audience’s enjoyment of the series by limiting spoilers,” she said in an emailed statement.

The Town of Fort Erie has also been tight-lipped about the production.

“Out of respect to them we are keeping all details confidential,” said communications manager Kevin Beauchamp.

This is not the show’s first visit to Niagara.

Scenes from season five were also shot in Crystal Beach, including inside the gates of the Crystal Beach Tennis and Yacht Club.

Port Colborne and Welland have also been locations used by the show.

The Handmaid’s Tale is the story of life in the dystopia of Gilead, a totalitarian society in what was formerly the United States.

Season six is expected to premiere in spring 2025 on Hulu. Previous seasons have been available in Canada on Crave.

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