BroadwayWorld.com Toronto Stories

POOKAMHURA: MISTRESS OF B-ROLL to Open at Toronto Fringe Festival

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 19:06:24 PST

A Non-Canonical Musical Adventure With Pookamhura: Mistress of B-Roll, a new musical by Chris Cracknell, will be presented at the 2026 Toronto Fringe Festival this July at Theatre Passe Muraille.

Created by composer Chris Cracknell with a book and stage direction by Brian Morton, A Non-Canonical Musical Adventure With Pookamhura: Mistress of B-Roll blends live performance, original songs, and animated projections inspired by MMORPG gameplay to tell a story of identity, friendship, and belonging.

The musical follows a group of online gamers gathered in a virtual dungeon while waiting for one final player to join their quest. Among them is Pookamhura, a mischievous gnome rogue inspired by Shakespeare's Puck. As the players pass the time through songs and storytelling, personal truths emerge, leading the group to confront questions of prejudice, loyalty, and authenticity.

Originally developed as a YouTube series during the pandemic, Pookamhura evolved into a stage musical and premiered at the 2025 Hamilton Fringe Festival. The production grew from a collective of Hamilton artists dedicated to creating original Canadian theatre.

Directed by Hamilton playwright Brian Morton, recipient of the 2013 Hamilton Arts Award for Theatre, the production builds on a history of new work development. Morton's play The Night They Raided McMaster won Best in Venue at the 2022 Hamilton Fringe Festival.

The cast features Emily Bolyea, Chris Cracknell, Mason Micevski, and Francis Wallace. Cracknell also provides the music, lyrics, and story for the production.

Part of the Alliance for Canadian Musicals satellite venue at Theatre Passe Muraille, the musical joins seven other new Canadian works being presented during the festival.

A Non-Canonical Musical Adventure With Pookamhura: Mistress of B-Roll is a Canadian Actors' Equity Association production presented under the festival policy and is one of 123 productions featured in the 2026 Toronto Fringe Festival.

TORONTO INTERNATIONAL TAP DANCE FESTIVAL to Return for Fourth Edition

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 21:03:55 PST

After sold-out programming in 2022 and 2024, the biennial Toronto International Tap Dance Festival (TITDF), produced by Toffan Rhythm Projects, will return for its fourth edition August 21-23, 2026 at four venues in Toronto.

Reflecting a multiplicity of histories, aesthetics, and perspectives, the 2026 lineup showcases a range of artistic approaches and lineages through deeply personal and globally resonant works.

Opening this year's festival on August 21 at Terminal Theatre is Milestones, a triple bill featuring a tribute to 90 year old tap dancer Joey Hollingsworth; an appearance from co-founder and artistic director of Manhattan Tap, Heather Cornell, marking her 70th year; and Chicago's Bril Barrett celebrating over 25 years as a solo artist and outreach trailblazer.

On August 22 at Terminal Theatre, the Toronto International Tap Dance Festival will present the split bill Convergence. The Boys' Club Tap Dance Collective featuring Laura Donaldson from Calgary, Elise McGrenera from Toronto, and Veronica Simpson from New York will present Ostinati, a 30-minute work exploring the cycles that shape lived experience and highlights solidarity and community among female-identifying artists. Closing the evening is With Far Hand from Boston's Subject:Matter. Created by Berklee Master of Music graduates Ian Berg (tap dance) and André Sudol (percussion), the work explores tap as both movement and sonic composition, emphasizing the instrument-like qualities of the form through original music, improvisation, and contemporary jazz influences.

The closing night jam will be hosted by celebrated Canadian tap dancer Victoria Miller on August 23 at DROM Taberna, where festival artists, community members, dancers, and audience members of all ages come together to celebrate the work, connection, and shared experience of gathering.

The Toronto International Tap Dance Festival will also include masterclasses, clinics, workshops, free panel discussions, and the Bril Barrett Residency Program where 12 dancers ages 18-25 from across Canada will train with and perform alongside him.

The Toronto International Tap Dance Festival presents leading artists in the global scene, nurtures the development of Canadian excellence in tap, and aims to be a focal platform for professional bodies of tap dance repertory. The Festival connects and explores multiple perspectives of culture, background, generation, and aesthetic.

Toronto International Tap Dance Festival

August 21-23, 2026
Terminal Theatre, 207 Queens Quay West
Waterfront Neighbourhood Centre, 627 Queens Quay West
Randolph Centre for the Performing Arts, 736 Bathurst Street
DROM Taberna, 458 Queen St West
Tickets On Sale June 15
https://www.toffanrhythmprojects.com/tap-fest

TORONTO INTERNATIONAL TAP DANCE FESTIVAL to Return for Fourth Edition

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 21:03:55 PST

Reflecting a multiplicity of histories, aesthetics, and perspectives, the 2026 lineup showcases a range of artistic approaches and lineages through deeply personal and globally resonant works.

Toronto International Tap Dance Festival

SEASON ONE at The Terminal Theatre to Feature 11 Works From 9 Companies

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 15:48:35 PST

The Toronto Stage Company has revealed "SEASON ONE" the first complete season since the successful acquisition of the lease to the former Fleck Dance Theatre at Queens Quay Terminal. Opened in 1983 and closed March 31st, 2025, "The Fleck" originally known as The Premiere Dance Theatre had been the spiritual home of dance in Toronto for over 42 years.

SEASON ONE at The Terminal Theatre will be broken down into subscription packages for three categories of performing arts, dance, opera and theatre. There will also be a series of off subscription events that will round out the theatre's programming.

Season One Overview

Season One Dance

Historically a dance specific theatre, The Terminal Theatre will welcome six diverse dance productions to our stage between December 2026 and June 2027. They are:

Canadian Contemporary Dance Theatre

Canadian Contemporary Dance Theatre returns to The Terminal Theatre with two productions, The 38th edition of WINTERSONG - DANCES FOR A SACRED SEASON and their SPRING HOME SEASON.

WINTERSONG

WINTERSONG is CCDT's annual celebration of the winter solstice and a holiday dance tradition that is not to be missed. Performances for WINTERSONG run December 11th, through December 14th, 2026.

SPRING HOME SEASON

CCDT will return with their SPRING HOME SEASON May 29th & May 30th, 2027.

In addition, CCDT will present multiple additional performances of WINTERSONG and their SPRING HOME SEASON to thousands of school children during special weekday performances.

GALLIM

In March, The Terminal Theatre presents a dance company known globally for its visceral physicality, boundary blurring artistry and deeply human work.

GALLIM's BODIES OF MATTER

New York City based GALLIM's BODIES OF MATTER is a powerful collection of works curated by GALLIM's choreographer and artistic director, Andrea Miller. BODIES OF MATTER spans 19 years of her dynamic vision for dance with six distinct pieces - each a universe unto itself - brought vividly to life by the breathtaking performances of GALLIM's Dancers.

BODIES OF MATTER is on stage March 5th & March 6th, 2027.

DANCEWORKS

Danceworks, Toronto's prolific presenters of community rooted, artist centred dance comes to the Terminal Theatre Stage with two exciting co-productions.

HUMAN

In April, Danceworks presents HUMAN, a dance-theatre work exploring memory, emotion and instinct by Human Body Expression. HUMAN blends movement, voice and theatrical imagery to examine how humans navigate life through both personal and collective experiences.

HUMAN runs April 13th, through April 24th, 2027.

ARCHITECTURE OF VIOLENCE

In May, Danceworks presents ARCHITECTURE OF VIOLENCE, a visceral collision of movement and story from Jaberi Dance Theatre. JDT is an award-winning Toronto-based company and a leading voice in Canadian contemporary dance.

ARCHITECTURE OF VIOLENCE confronts the tension between space and power through raw physicality and striking imagery.

ARCHITECTURE OF VIOLENCE runs May 13th, through May 30th, 2027.

THE Martha Graham DANCE COMPANY

Internationally renowned, The Martha Graham Dance Company is the oldest dance company in the United States. Their visit to The Terminal Theatre is part of their continuing celebration of 100 years of Martha Graham Dance.

Since the first company performance on April 18th, 1926, Graham's groundbreaking style has influenced generations and captivated audiences worldwide.

GRAHAM100

GRAHAM100 runs April 30th, 2027 through May 2nd, 2027.

Season One Opera

SEASON ONE represents the first of a two-year residency for Toronto City Opera at the Terminal Theatre. Each year TCO will present two classic operas to engage contemporary audiences through the timeless appeal of these works.

TORONTO CITY OPERA

LA BOHEME

LA BOHEME is the legendary opera that inspired the hit musical RENT. With unforgettable melodies, LA BOHEME captures the beauty and fragility of love. With a cast of the most exciting up-and-coming Canadian opera singers and the Toronto City Opera Chorus, this is the perfect opera for fans and first-time opera audiences! Sung in Italian with projected English translations and piano accompaniment.

LA BOHEME runs November 27th & 29th 2026.

THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE

THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE is a musical comedy sure to shiver your timbers! Packed with dazzling patter songs and irresistible wit, THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE is a swashbuckling celebration of romance, satire and hilarious musical fun. Performed in English with projected sung text and piano accompaniment.

THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE runs June 18th & 20th 2027.

Season One Theatre

Musical theatre finds a home at The Terminal Theatre in SEASON ONE. Three musicals including two new Canadian works hit our stage for 100+ performances!

DANCER (A MUSICAL IN TEN FURLONGS)

The previously announced production of DANCER (A MUSICAL IN TEN FURLONGS) opens SEASON ONE. With thrilling songs, exhilarating choreography and a triumphant story about Northern Dancer, the small, feisty horse who defied all odds and became the first Canadian horse to win the Kentucky Derby, DANCER is the must-see show of this coming fall.

This joyful original show is written by Jim Betts, the Dora and Chalmers Award winning playwright and lyricist, with music by multi-award-winning composer Marek Norman, choreography by Emmy-Award Nominee Stacey Tookey and starring Keanu Uchida as Northern Dancer. Produced by Oh What A Ride! Productions in association with Crow's Theatre.

Tickets for DANCER are on sale now at www.terminaltheatre.ca.

DANCER runs October 6th to November 1st, 2026.

PREDICTABLE HOLIDAY ROM-COM: THE MUSICAL

This holiday season, The Toronto Stage Company presents PREDICTABLE HOLIDAY ROM-COM: THE MUSICAL. This Canadian musical takes the predictable plot of any TV Christmas romance on Hallmark, Lifetime or Netflix (trust us - they all basically have the same plot) and adds 17 hilariously unpredictable songs. Coming off a very successful limited engagement at the Second City last year, audiences were begging for this show to return, and now it's found a new home and will be bigger and funnier than ever.

PREDICTABLE HOLIDAY ROM-COM: THE MUSICAL has book and lyrics by George Reinblatt (EVIL DEAD THE MUSICAL) and music by Suzy Wilde and Reinblatt. Wilde's musical AFTER THE RAIN is currently nominated for multiple Dora Awards.

PREDICTABLE HOLIDAY ROM-COM: THE MUSICAL is on stage December 17th, 2026 through January 3rd, 2027.

BE MORE CHILL

The theatre subscription finishes with BE MORE CHILL. After a successful Broadway run, The Toronto Stage Company is delighted to bring this show to Toronto. With Tony nominated score by Joe Iconis, this musical is like nothing you have seen before. BE MORE CHILL follows an awkward teenager as he sets out to be one of the cool dudes or whatever. But is being popular worth the risk and what happens to those you leave behind?

Adapted by Joe Tracz, from Ned Vizzini's 2004 book, The Toronto Stage Company production of BE MORE CHILL promises an "upgrade" to your theatrical experience.

BE MORE CHILL begins performances February 2nd, 2027.

Season One Subscriptions

SEASON ONE subscription packages go on sale Monday June 15th 2026. Packages are available in the following configurations.

Season One Complete Package

The SEASON ONE COMPLETE PACKAGE - experience 11 dance, opera and musical theatre productions in one exceptional package.

Season One Dance Package

The SEASON ONE DANCE PACKAGE - Dance fans can subscribe to our dance package to experience all six dance productions in one package.

Season One Opera Package

The SEASON ONE OPERA PACKAGE - Opera fans can experience two opera classics with this package.

Season One Theatre Package

The SEASON ONE THEATRE PACKAGE - Musical Theatre fans can subscribe to this package for all three musical theatre productions.

Additional Information

For further details visit www.terminaltheatre.ca/seasonone.

SPIRITUAL BOB IS TRAPPED IN PARADISE! to Make World Premiere at Toronto Fringe

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 05:11:37 PST

SPIRITUAL BOB IS TRAPPED IN PARADISE! is the absurdist window into the lives of Mormon sister missionaries you didn't know you needed! Performances will run 30 June - 11 July.

With The Book of Mormon lighting up Toronto this past April, Spiritual Bob is Trapped in Paradise! at Native Earth Minogitoon Workspace Giizis Studio, flips the script by telling a stranger, frumpier, and oft overlooked story about sister missionaries. Creator Caspian Keys, a trans man who was once a Mormon sister missionary, turns his real experience into an absurdist tragicomedy.

The play begins with a glimpse into the disciplined yet playful morning routine of Sisters Jackson and Lewis, but soon switches gears into the absurd. Our protagonists are visited by important religious figures, causing them to question their faith, identity, and destiny. Despite this heavy Mormon backdrop, Spiritual Bob is Trapped in Paradise! is ultimately about the friendship and connection between these two companions; one that may or may not endure to the end.

Keys has always known his story needed to be told, from his conversion to Mormonism, to serving as a full-time missionary in Arizona for eighteen months, to his later exit from the church. It wasn't until he started writing this show that he realised just how curious folks were about the unique rules and struggles of missionary life, and then saw how fascinated they became when he shared his experiences.

Spiritual Bob stars Claire Rice, making her grand return to the stage since having a baby, and Nicky Nasrallah, otherwise known as Selena Vyle, Toronto's own celebrated Drag Queen. In addition to her weekly drag brunch at Piano Piano Bloor (continuing Glad Day Bookshop's legacy), Selena is a familiar Fringe presence with credits including A Play We Just Wrote Just Now (2025), and her solo show, Broken Hearted Girl (2021).

The play takes place in 2003, coincidentally around the time Rice and Nasrallah met at theatre school in Toronto, back when they were the same age as their Spiritual Bob characters. They've been close friends and frequent collaborators for over 20 years, and their on-stage chemistry is undeniable.

With its mix of absurdist comedy and emotional truth, Spiritual Bob is Trapped in Paradise! is truly captivating, pulling audiences into an unfamiliar world, then leaving them moved by the spirit!

SPIRITUAL BOB IS TRAPPED IN PARADISE! to Make World Premiere at Toronto Fringe

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 05:11:37 PST

SPIRITUAL BOB IS TRAPPED IN PARADISE! is the absurdist window into the lives of Mormon sister missionaries you didn't know you needed! Performances will run 30 June - 11 July.

With its mix of absurdist comedy and emotional truth, Spiritual Bob is Trapped in Paradise! is truly captivating, pulling audiences into an unfamiliar world, then leaving them moved by the spirit!

THE IMPROPER IDENTITY to Make Toronto Fringe Festival Debut Challenging Accent Bias

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 05:08:28 PST

Japanese-Canadian performing arts company @mihyonvision will present The Improper Identity, a bold, satirical and emotionally resonant new work created by actor and playwright Miho Suzuki making its 2026 Toronto Fringe Festival debut from July 2 to July 12 at Native Earth's Minogitoon Workspace Giizis Studio Inspired by lived experience and rooted in comedy, fantasy and sharp social commentary, the 55-minute production explores the immigrant experience through the lens of language, belonging and the pressures surrounding assimilation.

Written and directed by Suzuki and based in part on her own lived experiences, The Improper Identity follows Ai, a Japanese immigrant actress navigating life and work in Canada while confronting the realities of accent discrimination and linguistic bias. After struggling to secure opportunities because of how she speaks, Ai becomes involved with an inventor's experimental device known as the “Pronunciationizer,” a fictional technology designed to erase accents and make speech sound more “standard.” What begins as a hopeful solution quickly unravels as the device distances her from her relationships, identity and authentic voice, revealing the emotional and cultural cost of conformity.

Blending satire, absurdity, physical theatre and multimedia performance, The Improper Identity uses surreal humour, tongue choreography and theatrical invention to tackle serious questions around who gets heard, who gets believed and who decides what is considered “proper.” Equal parts hilarious and thought-provoking, the production flips the narrative surrounding accent discrimination, arguing that the problem is not how people speak, but the systems that reward sameness and quietly penalize difference.

“In Canada we often celebrate multiculturalism, yet many immigrants still feel pressure to sound a certain way in order to be accepted, trusted or successful,” says creator Miho Suzuki. “This show comes from my own experiences and observations navigating language, belonging and identity. While The Improper Identity is comedic and absurd, underneath it asks a serious question: what happens when we try to change ourselves to fit systems that were never designed to fully embrace us?”

Presented by @mihyonvision, The Improper Identity arrives at a particularly timely cultural moment. As conversations around immigration, belonging and artificial intelligence continue to shape public discourse, the production asks whether technology and assimilation are truly solutions or whether they risk reinforcing the very biases they claim to solve. Through comedy and satire, the work highlights how accent bias remains one of the more invisible forms of discrimination, quietly influencing who gets hired, heard and considered credible.

A multidisciplinary artist and performer, Suzuki brings wit, vulnerability and theatrical experimentation to the stage, creating a work that is deeply personal yet universally relatable. Through fantasy, humour and emotional honesty, The Improper Identity celebrates the richness of linguistic and cultural diversity while reminding audiences that identity is not something to be corrected and that every voice deserves to be heard on its own terms.

THE IMPROPER IDENTITY to Make Toronto Fringe Festival Debut Challenging Accent Bias

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 05:08:28 PST

WILL & THE AMAZINGLY OBSESSIVE THEATRICAL VINYL COLLECTION to Make World Premiere at Toronto Fringe

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 21:35:03 PST

From Toronto actor/singer/award-winning content creator Will Parry, comes Will & The Amazingly Obsessive Theatrical Vinyl Collection: a new solo show all about the power of musical theatre cast recordings on vinyl. Will & The Amazingly Obsessive Theatrical Vinyl Collection, appearing as a part of the 2026 Toronto Fringe Festival at Jamii Hub (a community-driven arts hub on The Esplanade) from July 2 to July 12. Visit the Show Page to learn more.

IT'S A MUSICAL THEATRE SLUMBER PARTY... AND YOU'RE INVITED!! Welcome to Will's living room, filled with vinyls and stories of their quarter-life. Think The Drowsy Chaperone meets Boy Falls From The Sky meets your favourite Eccentric Gen-Z Theatre Nerd. This cozy cabaret-ified gossip sesh is all about thrifted LPs, the power of song, emotional healing... and Ethel Merman. This show will feature songs from your favourite musicals including Into the Woods, Sweet Charity, and more! This show is for theatre nerds, vinyl lovers, and anyone who finds community in their art, which is all of us. So sit back, relax, and get ready to laugh at Will's jokes. No preparation or pajamas required.

Said Dramaturg, Ryan G. Hinds, "Nothing reveals a performer as much as solo cabaret, and watching Will Parry share their life via cabaret has been inspiring. Telling stories, being vulnerable, and exploring new artistic territory is a rite of passage for any artist brave enough to try; I know from experience how much Toronto Fringe audiences support cabaret, and am proud to help Will find their voice."

Will & The Amazingly Obsessive Theatrical Vinyl Collection is written and performed by Will Parry (Into the Woods, Koerner Hall). The creative team includes Dean Deffett - Director (Blackbird, Company, Talk Is Free Theatre), Benjamin Kersey - Music Director (Mirvish, Stratford Festival, Shaw Festival), Ryan G. Hinds - Dramaturg (#KanderAndEbb, CBC-acclaimed "Toronto Theatre Icon"), Iris Asserlind - Stage Manager (SEX GODDESS, 2025 Toronto Fringe/SummerWorks), and emerging Producer, Ava Patterson.

THE EVERLASTING FRIENDSHIP OF BILLY & BINK to Make World Premiere at Toronto Fringe KidsFest

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 21:14:19 PST

The Everlasting Friendship of Billy & Bink is appearing as a part of the 2026 Toronto Fringe Festival's KidsFest at Young People's Theatre from July 2 to July 12.

PUPPETS AND HUMANS ALIKE, meet Billy & Bink! A puppet and human brother duo who are also BEST FRIENDS! It's a perfect day until Bink finds out Billy is hiding a secret.

Said Dora-Nominated and Puppet Designer/Consultant, Adam Francis Proulx, "I saw my first Toronto Fringe at least a decade and a half ago. As much as times have changed, Fringe audiences have always embraced inventive, joyful theatre, and Billy & Bink feels like the perfect fit for that spirit. This show combines sharp comedy, heart, and some wonderful puppetry in a way that reminds us why live performance can feel so immediate and magical. At a time when audiences are craving connection, playfulness, and genuine surprise, this piece delivers all three with charm to spare. It's clever, weird, heartfelt, and, most importantly, an absolute blast."

The Everlasting Friendship of Billy & Bink is written (book & lyrics) and performed by Will Parry (Into the Woods, Koerner Hall). The creative team includes Andrew Lamb - Director/Dramaturg (3-Time Dora Award Nominee, Artistic Director of Roseneath Theatre), Chris Tsujiuchi - Composer/Music Director (Dora-Nominated for A Strange Loop, Soulpepper), Adam Francis Proulx - Pupper Designer/Consultant (Dora-Nominated for Emilio's A Million Chameleons, Toronto Fringe/Soho Playhouse - Off-Broadway).

THE EVERLASTING FRIENDSHIP OF BILLY & BINK

Appearing as a part of the 2026 Toronto Fringe Festival's KidsFest Written (Book/Lyrics) & Performed by: Will Parry
Directed by: Andrew Lamb
Composed & Music Directed by: Chris Tsujiuichi
At Young People's Theatre
July 2 to July 12, 2026. Opening performance is July 2 at 12pm.
Run Time: Approximately 40 minutes with optional Q+A. No intermission. Age recommendation: 6-10 (but suitable for all)

MADDADDAM Full Cast Announced for National Ballet of Canada Revival

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 20:20:46 PST

The National Ballet of Canada has announced casting for Wayne McGregor's MADDADDAM, inspired by Margaret Atwood's celebrated novel trilogy and featuring a score by internationally acclaimed composer Max Richter. The production returns to the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts in Toronto June 13-21.

On opening night, Principal Dancer Siphesihle November will perform the role of Jimmy, with Principal Dancer Harrison James as Crake, Principal Dancer Koto Ishihara as Oryx, Principal Dancer Heather Ogden as Toby, Principal Dancer Tirion Law as Ren, First Soloist Jenna Savella as Amanda, Principal Dancer Christopher Gerty as Zeb, Principal Dancer Larkin Miller as Blanco, and Principal Dancer Ben Rudisin as Ancestor Adam.

A co-production with The Royal Ballet, MADDADDAM was created in Toronto and received its world premiere at the Four Seasons Centre in November 2022. The Royal Ballet presented the London premiere in November 2024 and will revive the production in February 2027 to celebrate McGregor's 20th anniversary as Resident Choreographer. The Toronto engagement will feature updates introduced during the London run.

Exploring themes of extinction and invention, hubris and humanity, MADDADDAM draws on Atwood's activism and connection to Canada. The production features designs by We Not I, costumes by Gareth Pugh, lighting by Lucy Carter, film design by Ravi Deepres, and dramaturgy by Uzma Hameed.

Casting

Jimmy

Siphesihle November (June 13, 17, 18, 19, 20 at 7:30 p.m.)
Spencer Hack (June 14, 18, 20, 21 at 2:00 p.m.)

Crake

Harrison James (June 13, 17, 18, 19, 20 at 7:30 p.m.)
Naoya Ebe* (June 14, 20, 21 at 2:00 p.m.)
Isaac Wright* (June 18 at 2:00 p.m.)

Oryx

Koto Ishihara (June 13, 17, 18, 19, 20 at 7:30 p.m.)
Svetlana Lunkina (June 14, 18, 20, 21 at 2:00 p.m.)

Toby

Heather Ogden (June 13, 17, 18, 19, 20 at 7:30 p.m.)
Alexandra MacDonald (June 14, 18, 20, 21 at 2:00 p.m.)

Ren

Tirion Law* (June 13, 17, 18, 19, 20 at 7:30 p.m.)
Monika Haczkiewicz* (June 14, 18, 20, 21 at 2:00 p.m.)

Amanda

Jenna Savella (June 13, 17, 18, 19, 20 at 7:30 p.m.)
Agnes Su* (June 14, 18, 20, 21 at 2:00 p.m.)

Zeb

Christopher Gerty (June 13, 17, 18, 19, 20 at 7:30 p.m.)
Peng Fei Jiang (June 14, 18, 20, 21 at 2:00 p.m.)

Blanco

Larkin Miller* (June 13, 17, 18, 19, 20 at 7:30 p.m.)
Donald Thom (June 14, 18, 20, 21 at 2:00 p.m.)

Ancestor Adam

Ben Rudisin (June 13, 17, 18, 19, 20 at 7:30 p.m.)
Jack Bertinshaw (June 14, 18, 20, 21 at 2:00 p.m.)

*Debuts

Casting is subject to change.

THE PRIDEFUL SINNERS To Return To Pride Toronto

Sat, 06 Jun 2026 11:09:23 PST

The Prideful Sinners will return to the Pride Toronto Central Stage on Saturday June 27th from 7pm - 8pm, with all new cast of the best performers from Toronto and beyond.

The Prideful Sinners is curated by award-winning Burlesque Artist, Red Tongued Raven. Dazzling costumes, one-of-a-kind stunts, and incredible dancers will take your breath away during this special presentation for Pride Toronto.

The cast includes: Aquarius Moon, Allysin Chaynes, Canary Quinn, Chella Bella, Gigi Lavande, Kuya Atay, Pastel Supernova and Red Tongued Raven.

The show is free and non-ticketed. Donations are encouraged upon entry to support Pride's festival-wide programming. Recommended audience age is 19+ or attending with parental supervision.

Stratford Festival's Meighen Forum to Present Pride Week, TALES OF AN URBAN INDIAN, and More

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 21:33:02 PST

The Stratford Festival's Meighen Forum is launching its summer season with a month of conversations, performances, screenings, and cultural events designed to engage audiences both on and off the stage. The June lineup includes appearances by prominent Canadian figures, Pride celebrations, theatrical readings, live music, and the return of one of Canada's most distinctive theatrical experiences.

The season begins with the inaugural installment of the David Goldbloom and Friends interview series, featuring an in-depth conversation with the Right Honourable Adrienne Clarkson on June 6. The former Governor General, journalist, broadcaster, writer, and arts advocate will reflect on her career and contributions to Canadian public life. The event is currently selling fast.

Additional speaker events include Shakespeare scholar Ayanna Thompson discussing race and Shakespeare with Stratford company member Jessica B. Hill on June 12, followed by conversations celebrating acclaimed actor Graham Greene and exploring Shakespeare through Indigenous perspectives with artists Yvette Nolan, Waylon Lenk, and Reneltta Arluk.

The Forum's Pride Weekend programming, hosted by award-winning comedian Gavin Crawford, will take place June 13–14. Events include Laughing Out Proud: Queer Comedy in Canada, featuring comedians Martha Chaves and Tom Hearn, and The Importance of Being Authentic: Beyond Queer Stereotypes, with comedian Brandon Ash-Mohammed and screenwriter JP Larocque discussing representation on stage and screen.

The June schedule also includes a double-bill reading of Love, Tom and Have You Talked To My Mother?, two plays by Julia Rank inspired by Stratford Festival founder Tom Patterson, as well as a screening of This Above All: The Theatrical Life of Antoni Cimolino, followed by a live Q&A with the outgoing artistic director.

On June 22, Larry Larson and Larry's Jazz Guys will return for an evening of jazz standards and storytelling as part of the popular Monday Night Music series.

Rounding out the month is Tales of an Urban Indian, Darrell Dennis's acclaimed play presented by Talk is Free Theatre. Performed aboard a moving city bus, the production follows Simon Douglas as he navigates life between the reserve and the city. Since premiering in 2009, the production has toured internationally and has been performed more than 750 times. The immersive production runs June 24–28.

The Meighen Forum will continue throughout the summer with additional conversations, performances, readings, and musical events, including a celebration of Duke Ellington and a developmental reading of The Amateurs, a new work by Slings & Arrows creators Susan Coyne, Bob Martin, and Mark McKinney.

David Goldbloom and the Right Honourable Adrienne Clarkson

Saturday, June 6 | 10:30 a.m. – Noon
Lazaridis Hall, Tom Patterson Theatre

Dr. David Goldbloom launches his new interview series with a conversation featuring the Right Honourable Adrienne Clarkson. Canada's 26th Governor General, Clarkson has enjoyed a distinguished career as a journalist, broadcaster, writer, producer, and advocate for the arts. The event will offer audiences an opportunity to hear reflections on her remarkable career and lasting impact on Canada's cultural and public life.

Love, Tom and "Have You Talked To My Mother?": A Double-Bill Play Reading

Thursday, June 11 | 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Lazaridis Hall, Tom Patterson Theatre

This special reading celebrates the life and legacy of Stratford Festival founder Tom Patterson through two plays by Julia Rank. Love, Tom draws from letters Patterson wrote to his parents while serving in World War II, while Have You Talked To My Mother? revisits a pivotal moment in Festival history through Patterson's own storytelling. Scott Beaudin performs both works.

Shakespeare's Multiracial World with Professor Ayanna Thompson

Friday, June 12 | 10:30 a.m. – Noon
Lazaridis Hall, Tom Patterson Theatre

Leading Shakespeare scholar Ayanna Thompson joins Stratford Festival company member Jessica B. Hill for a conversation exploring race and Shakespeare. Drawing on her work as a dramaturg, educator, and editor of The Cambridge Companion to Shakespeare and Race, Thompson will discuss how Shakespeare's works continue to intersect with conversations about identity and representation.

Laughing Out Proud: Queer Comedy in Canada

Saturday, June 13 | 10:30 a.m. – Noon
Lazaridis Hall, Tom Patterson Theatre

As part of Pride Weekend, award-winning comedian Gavin Crawford hosts a discussion with comics Martha Chaves and Tom Hearn. Together, they will share personal experiences and insights into working as queer performers in the comedy world while exploring the evolution of LGBTQ+ representation in Canadian comedy.

Antoni Cimolino: Staging Greatness with Q&A

Saturday, June 13 | 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Lazaridis Hall, Tom Patterson Theatre

Following its premiere at Hot Docs, This Above All: The Theatrical Life of Antoni Cimolino comes to the Meighen Forum. The documentary chronicles the career of the Stratford Festival's longest-serving artistic director as he prepares for his final season. A live Q&A with Cimolino will follow the screening.

The Importance of Being Authentic: Beyond Queer Stereotypes

Sunday, June 14 | 10:30 a.m. – Noon
Lazaridis Hall, Tom Patterson Theatre

Comedian Brandon Ash-Mohammed and screenwriter JP Larocque join host Gavin Crawford for a discussion about authentic queer representation in contemporary entertainment. The panel will examine progress made in recent years while considering the challenges and opportunities that remain for LGBTQ+ storytelling.

The Greatness of Graham Greene

Saturday, June 20 | 10:30 a.m. – Noon
Lazaridis Hall, Tom Patterson Theatre

Artists and collaborators gather to celebrate the extraordinary career of award-winning actor Graham Greene. Featuring Herbie Barnes, Yvette Nolan, and Severn Thompson, the conversation will explore Greene's contributions to theatre and film through personal stories, reflections, and discussions of his enduring influence.

Shakespeare Through an Indigenous Lens

Sunday, June 21 | 10:30 a.m. – Noon
Lazaridis Hall, Tom Patterson Theatre

Yvette Nolan, Waylon Lenk, and Reneltta Arluk examine the relationship between Shakespeare and Indigenous storytelling traditions. The discussion will explore how Indigenous artists have reimagined Shakespeare's works through contemporary, decolonial approaches that center Indigenous perspectives and sovereignty.

Larry's Jazz Guys

Monday, June 22 | 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Lazaridis Hall, Tom Patterson Theatre

Trumpeter Larry Larson and his acclaimed ensemble return for an evening of jazz favorites and new discoveries. Blending exceptional musicianship with Larson's trademark storytelling, the performance promises a relaxed and engaging night of music.

Tales of an Urban Indian

June 24–28 | Various Times
Pick-up and Drop-off: East of the Festival Theatre on Richard Monette Way

One of Canada's most unique theatrical experiences returns to Stratford. Performed aboard a moving city bus, Darrell Dennis's acclaimed play follows Simon Douglas as he navigates life between the reserve and the city. Through humor, honesty, and a transformative solo performance, Tales of an Urban Indian offers an unforgettable journey through contemporary Indigenous experience.

A MOMENT FOR FRAYED NERVES to Make World Premiere at Toronto Fringe

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 08:09:05 PST

A Moment for Frayed Nerves is an experimental new musical by Kevin Wong and Alysa Pires at Theatre Passe Muraille as part of the 2026 Toronto Fringe Festival, co-directed by Rielle Braid. Performances will run 2-12 July.

Immerse yourself in a musical bath of song and movement, following emotionally-linked vignettes inspired by Ghibli cooking scenes, lo-fi study mixes, warm baths, and the quest for existential meaning. This show is a love letter to the ways our modern human experience is at once confounding, infuriating, hilarious, and heartening.

Frayed Nerves is the first collaboration by musical theatre creator Kevin Wong (Patrons' Pick winning creator of Polly Peel and Drama 101, three time winner of the Playwrights Guild of Canada Tom Hendry Award for New Musical Theatre) and choreographer Alysa Pires (Exterminating Angel, New York City Ballet, National Ballet of Canada). It is an experimental musical of completely original music and choreography, rooted in the sounds of Lauridsen choral harmonies, 80s Japanese city pop, 90s early R&B, and 2020s synth pop.

The musical features Book, Music & Lyrics: Kevin Wong, Co-Director & Choreography: Alysa Pires, Co-Director & Dramaturgy: Rielle Braid. The cast includes Delia Clark-Bautista, Nathaniel Cadougan, EJ Candelaria, Sarah Evasiw, Claire Haig-Halsall, Violet Legarde, Marissa Monk, Bryan Nothling, Chris Otchere, and Helena Shields-Ballantyne.

The producer is Lucy McPhee with Zahra Esmail serving as stage manager and lighting design by Logan Raju Cracknell.

A MOMENT FOR FRAYED NERVES to Make World Premiere at Toronto Fringe

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 08:09:05 PST

The producer is Lucy McPhee with Zahra Esmail serving as stage manager and lighting design by Logan Raju Cracknell.

GOOD LOVELIES 20th Anniversary Holiday Concert to Return to Massey Hall

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 20:00:46 PST

Massey Hall will welcome back Juno Award-winning songwriters and multi-instrumentalists, Good Lovelies for their Christmas Concert taking place on Thursday, December 17, 2026 on the legendary Allan Slaight Stage.

Canadian vocal harmony trio Good Lovelies' much-loved Christmas Tour returns this December as they celebrate their 20th anniversary as a band! This show features holiday classics, winter favourites as well as the band's original music that audiences have come to love over their two-decade career. Caroline Brooks, Kerri Ough and Susan Passmore are Juno Award-winning songwriters and multi-instrumentalists known for their rich harmonies and nostalgic sound. Blending folk-roots, old-time swing, bluegrass, pop and soul, their music is a perfect fit for the season.

Good Lovelies will be joined on stage by their longtime friends and collaborators, Robbie Grunwald on keys, Steve Zsirai on upright bass, and Mark Mariash on drums. We hope you'll come join in the festivities!

Tickets on sale this Friday, June 5th at 10am ET via the Massey Hall Box Office at 416-872-4255 or at masseyhall.com. Membership pre-sales are available. Click here for details.

UNSUNG: The Accidental Villains of History to Make Toronto Fringe Debut

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 19:41:18 PST

After previous appearances at fringe festivals across Canada, UNSUNG: THE ACCIDENTAL VILLAINS OF HISTORY will make its Toronto debut as part of the 2026 Toronto Fringe Festival.

Written by Canadian composer Mackenzie Langdon, the musical comedy takes audiences on a journey through history, reimagining the individuals connected to a series of well-known disasters and historical mishaps. Through a collection of comic vignettes, the show explores the stories of those often overlooked figures who found themselves on the wrong side of history.

Originally presented at the Ottawa, Winnipeg, and London Fringe Festivals, UNSUNG returns with an expanded cast and creative team for its largest production to date. The Toronto engagement is being produced by Aster Roe Productions.

The cast includes Tess Barão, Nolan Rush, Tyler Winder, KC Martinez, Jillian Peters, and creator Mackenzie Langdon.

Langdon co-directs the production alongside Jordan Robertson-Reid. The pair previously collaborated on A Girl Like You in Concert, a concert presentation celebrating the music of the animated Barbie films.

Cast and Creative Team

UNSUNG: THE ACCIDENTAL VILLAINS OF HISTORY is written by Mackenzie Langdon and co-directed by Langdon and Jordan Robertson-Reid.

The cast features Tess Barão, Nolan Rush, Tyler Winder, KC Martinez, Jillian Peters, and Mackenzie Langdon.

Ticket Information

Performances will take place at Theatre Passe Muraille Mainspace, located at 16 Ryerson Avenue, as part of the 2026 Toronto Fringe Festival.

Scheduled performances are June 30 at 7:45 p.m.; July 3 at 1:30 p.m.; July 4 at 3:45 p.m.; July 7 at 5:15 p.m.; July 8 at 9:30 p.m.; July 9 at 7:30 p.m.; and July 11 at 2:30 p.m

QUESTING THROUGH LIFE to Open at Toronto Fringe Festival With 10-Foot Dragon Puppet

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 19:38:44 PST

Tickets are now available for QUESTING THROUGH LIFE, a new original production from Dodo Tree Productions that will be presented as part of the 2026 Toronto Fringe Festival.

Set in a world where fantasy and reality begin to overlap, the play follows a group of friends navigating personal challenges whose tabletop role-playing campaign unexpectedly starts influencing events in their everyday lives. As the boundaries between game and reality blur, they are forced to confront difficult truths about friendship, identity, and growing up.

Blending fantasy, comedy, and drama, the production incorporates elements inspired by tabletop gaming culture while exploring themes of queer identity, friendship, and self-discovery.

QUESTING THROUGH LIFE was created by Dodo Tree Productions, a youth-led Toronto theater company. The production was written, directed, and produced by 17-year-old Tanya Yong and features a cast and creative team made up primarily of young artists from the Toronto area.

Cast and Creative Team

The production is written, directed, and produced by Tanya Yong.

The cast includes Jenna Lawton, Queenie Li, Deniz Ölmez, Nikko Oey, M. Parkhi, Xin Pilkiw, Shana Rose, Quennie Yap, and Merve Zeybekoglu.

The creative team includes lighting and sound designer Abbey Kruse and stage manager Charlotte Théraud.

Ticket Information

QUESTING THROUGH LIFE will be presented at Soulpepper's Weyni Mengesha Theatre as part of the 2026 Toronto Fringe Festival. Tickets are now on sale, including reduced-price tickets for teens.

TORONTO BURLESQUE FESTIVAL REVERIE to Feature 50+ Artists at Buddies in Bad Times

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 14:59:07 PST

The Toronto Burlesque Festival will present REVERIE - the 14th edition of their annual festival running November 12–15, 2026 at the iconic Buddies in Bad Times Theatre. REVERIE, features four nights of dazzling, dreamlike entertainment spotlighting over 50 burlesque artists from around the world.

The Toronto Burlesque Festival 2026 headliners include: Internationally renowned Afro-Indigenous burlesque dancer and Miss Exotic World (2022) Lou Lou la Duchesse de Rière (Montreal); Chicago cabaret legend and 2x Number One Burlesque Figure in the world Jeez Loueez (New Orleans / Chicago); International Burlesque Icon Jezebel Express (New York / Newfoundland); and a special appearance from Burlesque Legend and Burlesque Hall of Famer Lovey Goldmine (Las Vegas) with a career spanning 50 years.

Whether you're a seasoned burlesque aficionado or discovering the art form for the first time, the Toronto Burlesque Festival invites audiences on a dazzling journey with the top performers in burlesque, cabaret, and drag. The full 2026 lineup will be announced in the coming weeks. In addition to four spellbinding showcases, each with a different cast, TBF will offer two days of public workshops on November 13 and 14, led by the festival's headliners and featured performers.

TORONTO BURLESQUE FESTIVAL REVERIE to Feature 50+ Artists at Buddies in Bad Times

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 14:59:07 PST

MIRV-'ISH' AN IMPROVISED MUSICAL to Play Toronto Fringe Festival

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 13:51:48 PST

Tired of seeing the same musical twice? Good. Mirv-"ish" refuses to repeat itself. Coached under the watchful eye of This Hour Has 22 Minutes writer, and Second City alum Ashley Botting, and musically marshalled by Composer and Second City Touring Company Musical Director, James Atin, Mirv-"ish" improvises a completely original 60 minute comedic musical each performance. No script, no props, no sheet music, just your suggestion and a cast ready to weep, crack a joke, hit a high C, and fall in love in three-part harmony.

Join the hilariously unhinged Mirv-"ish" Improv troupe for a high-stakes, completely improvised musical extravaganza where your real-life, petty grievances are transformed into a full-blown comedic musical. No complaint is too small to get the Broadway treatment. Whether it's RISING RENT COSTS, DATING IN THE CITY, or your commute to HAMILTON that's driving you nuts, you bring the problems and we bring the punchlines and the power chords!

Mirv-"ish" Comedy Troupe performs monthly at Comedy Bar Danforth and Bloor and has been refining their killer harmonies and sharp, comedic talent for the past 2 years.. A rotating, starry ensemble including viral sketch phenom Janelle McGuinness, screen actor Rachel Sellan (Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, Ginny & Georgia), Canadian Screen Award winner and TVOKids alum Kara Harun clown virtuoso Kendall Savage, Schitt's Creek actor Victoria Kucher, and more!

National Ballet of Canada Mourns Loss of Principal Dancer Hazaros Surmeyan

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 21:30:31 PST

The National Ballet of Canada has shared news of the passing of former Principal Dancer and Principal Character Artist Hazaros (Lazo) Surmeyan whose extraordinary 54-year career left an indelible mark on the company and the Canadian dance community.

Born in Skopje, Yugoslavia, Surmeyan danced with the Skopje Opera Ballet and Belgrade Opera Ballet before continuing his studies in Cannes, France with renowned teacher Rosella Hightower. At just 20 years old, he performed the roles of Prince Florimund in The Sleeping Beauty and Siegfried in Swan Lake before going on to dance as a Principal Dancer with the Mannheim Opera Ballet and Cologne Opera Ballet.

In 1966, Surmeyan joined The National Ballet of Canada as a Principal Dancer. Throughout his distinguished career he was admired for his danseur noble qualities, commanding Stage Presence and exceptional artistry. In 1986, he was appointed Principal Character Artist, becoming one of the company's leading interpreters of character roles and helping to define the position within the organization.

His extensive repertoire included the Tutor in Swan Lake, Lord Capulet and Montague in Romeo and Juliet, Prince Gremin in Onegin, Widow Simone in La Fille mal gardée, Councillor Drosselmeyer in The Nutcracker, Gamache and Lorenzo in Don Quixote, Baron Zeta in The Merry Widow, Dr. Sloper in Washington Square and the title role in Balanchine's Don Quixote, among many others.

Praised for his extraordinary acting abilities and attention to detail, Surmeyan was recognized by Dance Magazine as “a world-class character dancer.” He also created roles in James Kudelka's Cinderella, The Contract (The Pied Piper), The Four Seasons and An Italian Straw Hat, as well as works including Newcomers, Mad Shadows, Hedda and The Seven Daggers/Los Siete Punales.

Beyond the stage, Surmeyan appeared in the CBC Television production of Giselle and Eric Till's film Mad Shadows. He also contributed to the art form as a choreographer and teacher, creating a new production of Romeo and Juliet in Macedonia in 1987 and the critically acclaimed full-length Anna Karenina for the Skopje Ballet in 2003. He later shared his expertise internationally as a guest teacher in China and at the Sarasota Academy of Ballet Arts in Florida.

Surmeyan's artistry, generosity and dedication touched generations of colleagues and audiences. His legacy remains an important part of The National Ballet of Canada's history and will continue to inspire future artists.

The company extends its deepest condolences to his beloved wife, former dancer, Principal Character Artist and Ballet Mistress Lorna Geddes, as well as to his family, friends, colleagues and loved ones. He will be greatly missed.

BOOK OF OOKA: THE IMMACULATE MISCONCEPTION to Open at Toronto Fringe

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 21:24:39 PST

Following their successful 2025 Fringe run of Very Shady Arab Ladies, the legendary "Divas of Disruption"—Juno-nominated Maryem Tollar and Roula Said—return to the Toronto Fringe Festival this July with a provocative, genre-defying new production: Book of Ooka: The Immaculate Misconception.

Catch it this July at the VideoCabaret - Deanne Taylor Theatre (10 Busy Street). This 60-minute show mixes physical comedy, live musicianship, and traditional Arabic melodies. The story catapults best friends Maryem and Roula from a Toronto shawarma shop all the way to the River Jordan. The catalyst? Roula's 78-year-old virgin Auntie Ooka—portrayed by the versatile, Dora Award-winning actor Anand Rajaram (who also co-writes and directs)—is visited in her dreams by celestial spirits informing her she is divinely pregnant and needs Maryem and Roula to take her home to Bethlehem to give birth.

Book of Ooka proudly centers "Hag Energy"—the visionary and spiritually alive power of older women of color. Backed by an incredible live musical ensemble including Ernie Tollar, Joska Tollar, Yvette Tollar, and Omneya Tollar, the show builds a peaceful theatrical bridge between the streets of Toronto and the Middle East. A beautiful container of heavy topics expressed through the madness of apocalyptic thinking, laughter and profound joy.

FAOC

FAOC started during the pandemic. Roula and Maryem would take long walks and talk in their mothers' Arabic accents and it would sometimes make them laugh so much, they would film short clips and post them on social media. They started getting a following and people asking for more. In 2024 they did their first live theatre show - "Beige Christmas" where they had a run of 12 shows and each show had a different musical guest. It was a great success. In 2025, FAOC did their first play at Toronto Fringe 2025 - "Very Shady Arab Ladies". In January 2026, FAOC released a radio play "FAOC Saves Christmas - Santa Gets FAOC'd" - after they did a live reading of it at Sketch Fest at Video Cabaret Theatre. They will be premiering Book of Ooka: The Immaculate Misconception at Toronto Fringe 2026.

BOOK OF OOKA: THE IMMACULATE MISCONCEPTION to Open at Toronto Fringe

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 21:24:39 PST

FAOC

SNACEY! to Make Toronto Fringe Festival Debut as Full Musical

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 19:33:54 PST

Pitch In Productions will present Snacey! at Toronto Fringe Festival. Running July 3 - 12, 2026 at Weyni Mengesha Theatre, Toronto

From writer and director Priscila Gonzalez comes the story of Snacey, a young snake who lives in the Northern Andes. She has not been the kindest snake and is afraid no one will show up to her birthday party! When her past behaviour slithers back to haunt her, Snacey must shed her evil ways and grow into a new version of herself. Will her animal pals (and mom) accept that she is capable of change? This campy musical for ages 8+ highlights mother-daughter relationships, the power of an apology, and growing into your own person (or snake).

Snacey! first started as a 10 minute solo piece for one of Priscila Gonzalez's York University classes. In 2024, it was extended into a 60 minute Theatre For Young Audiences solo show and presented in the Toronto Fringe Kidsfest. Now, it is a 60 minute non-solo musical. Seven original songs were created for Snacey! with the help of composer Irah Salo. Pitch In Productions was formed through the 2025 TENT (Theatre Entrepreneurs' Network and Training) Program with the Toronto Fringe Festival, facilitated by Tanya Rintoul.

Starring Dora Award-winning actor Autumn Davis, Nasim Ramirez (In Dreams (Luke Sheppard, Mirvish), Cross (Amazon Prime), Vladimir (Netflix) and Overcompensating (Amazon Prime)), recent Theatre and Drama Studies University of Toronto and Sheridan College graduate Laura Dae, Gabriela Dereje (Theatre@York's productions of Much Ado About Nothing and The Children's Hour), Iza Rincon (The Ensemble (Old Soles,Toronto Fringe, Second City)), and Sheridan College Music Theatre Program graduate Pippa van Beek-Paterson.

Pitch In Productions is committed to presenting an accessible and inclusive show. Snacey! will have relaxed performances, an ASL interpreted performance, masked performances, and captioned performances. More information and tickets available as of June 3, 2026 at https://fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/snacey

This project was made possible through Guild Festival Theatre's Youth Engagement Scarborough Initiative. This is a Canadian Actors' Equity Association production under the Festival Policy.

MY OWN PRIVATE SHAKESPEARE to Return to Toronto Fringe

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 18:47:27 PST

Modern Classic Theatre will present My Own Private Shakespeare, written and performed by Justin Hay and directed by Mona Zaidi, as part of the 2026 Toronto Fringe Festival.

The production will run June 30 to July 12 at Soulpepper Theatre's Kevin & Roger Garland Cabaret, 50 Tank House Lane in Toronto's Distillery Historic District.

Tickets are $15.25 and are available for advance purchase at: https://www.fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/my-own-private-shakespeare

The performance will run approximately 55 minutes.

PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE

Tuesday, June 30 — 4:00 pm
Friday, July 3 — 6:45 pm
Sunday, July 5 — 12:30 pm
Monday, July 6 — 3:00 pm
Wednesday, July 8 — 8:15 pm
Friday, July 10 — 3:00 pm
Saturday, July 11 — 10:30 pm
Sunday, July 12 — 5:30 pm

After a critically acclaimed run at the 2022 Edinburgh Fringe Festival, a sold-out three-week run in Toronto, and its warmly received U.S. engagement at New York's Little Shakespeare Festival, the award-winning Canadian play My Own Private Shakespeare comes to the 2026 Toronto Fringe Festival.

Winner of “Best Play” and “Best Director” at the BroadwayWorld.com 2022 Awards (Toronto), My Own Private Shakespeare draws on some of the greatest and most powerful passages from Shakespeare to ask: Is it possible to find peace with the impossible paradoxes of life?

From a single fateful phone call taken reluctantly from the toilet, a Shakespearean actor finds his world collapsing around him. As the story unfolds, the unforgiving realities of his shattered life intertwine with Shakespeare's radiant, immortal text, while the man teeters dangerously close to the brink.

The play will be performed by actor/playwright Justin Hay, who has previously worked with Mona Zaidi in the 2017 filmed adaptations Julius Caesar: In Shallows and Richard III: Unto the Kingdom of Perpetual Night, winner of “Best Film” at the 2017 Shakespeare Film Festival in Stratford-upon-Avon, U.K.

Justin Hay (Writer/Performer) is a veteran Canadian actor of the stage and screen. Justin studied at Glasgow University and the Royal National Theatre Conservatory in London. He is known to Toronto Fringe audiences for 2024's Saskatchewan: An Aspirational Polyamorous Adventure, which he wrote and directed, and his performance in 2023 of Tricia Williams' Hymns and Hearse. Other recent theatre work includes Three Ships' production of A Christmas Carol at Campbell House Museum, Plosive Theatre's Private Fears in Public Places in Ottawa, and Miracle Theatre's The Garage Sale in Prince George, BC. Justin also recently appeared in Hallmark's The Perfect Setting.

Mona Zaidi (Director) is an award-winning South Asian Canadian director known for her ground-breaking modern adaptations of classical theatre and world literature for stage and screen.

Modern Classic Theatre is known for presenting intimate, exciting, modern adaptations of classics. The Toronto-based company has presented internationally critically acclaimed works since 2016.

The Toronto Fringe Festival is Toronto's largest theatre and performance festival, showcasing independent artists and new work from across the city, Canada, and beyond.

MY OWN PRIVATE SHAKESPEARE to Return to Toronto Fringe

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 18:47:27 PST

Modern Classic Theatre will present My Own Private Shakespeare, written and performed by Justin Hay and directed by Mona Zaidi, as part of the 2026 Toronto Fringe Festival.

The production will run June 30 to July 12 at Soulpepper Theatre's Kevin & Roger Garland Cabaret, 50 Tank House Lane in Toronto's Distillery Historic District.

Tickets are $15.25 and are available for advance purchase at: https://www.fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/my-own-private-shakespeare

The performance will run approximately 55 minutes.

PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE

Tuesday, June 30 — 4:00 pm
Friday, July 3 — 6:45 pm
Sunday, July 5 — 12:30 pm
Monday, July 6 — 3:00 pm
Wednesday, July 8 — 8:15 pm
Friday, July 10 — 3:00 pm
Saturday, July 11 — 10:30 pm
Sunday, July 12 — 5:30 pm

Mona Zaidi (Director) is an award-winning South Asian Canadian director known for her ground-breaking modern adaptations of classical theatre and world literature for stage and screen.

Modern Classic Theatre is known for presenting intimate, exciting, modern adaptations of classics. The Toronto-based company has presented internationally critically acclaimed works since 2016.

The Toronto Fringe Festival is Toronto's largest theatre and performance festival, showcasing independent artists and new work from across the city, Canada, and beyond.

MANY HAPPY RETURNS to Make Toronto Fringe Festival Debut

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 05:20:35 PST

BEARS! In The City! will continue its hit run of the one-of-a-kind show Many Happy Returns, a group-based, interactive, immersive performance with artifacts to find, intriguing guests to meet, and mysteries to unravel. Performances will run June 30 - July 12.

This interactive show encourages audiences to work together while mingling with The People from the Past at a swinging New Year's Eve party, December 31, 1926. The audience must learn the characters' desires, help them achieve their goals, and manipulate the events of the party to retrieve the 10 artifacts! Will they succeed? Or will they find themselves trapped in an endless loop in this race against the clock?!

Many Happy Returns was honoured to win the 2025 No Proscenium “Immie” Audience Award for Outstanding Immersive Work, and has delighted audiences at multiple downtown Toronto venues since 2024. This standout show is the third collaboration of Toronto-based director, immersive designer, and actor, Julie Cohn; and U.S. immersive behemoth, IntrigueX. Many Happy Returns follows pre-production work on (Un)remembering, a show about familial estrangement and reconciliation (opening soon), and Stepping into the (Un)known, an exploration of knowing oneself, for Nuit Blanche '23.

“When we say ‘the 20s', we immediately call to mind speakeasies, jazz, flappers, black and white photos, ridiculous hats; HISTORY. Then we realize we're in the 20s again. What has changed? What hasn't? What will and won't change in the next 100 years? We think about war, financial crises, fighting for equity, pandemics – hard times, and they are still here,” said Cohn.

The play also gives the audience a much-needed reprieve: “Despite our current societal challenges, we are still finding ways to be bold and brave: rebelling, celebrating our successes, finding reasons to get dolled up and sneak some gin. It's great to be proud of how far we've come, and important to recognize where we still have work to do. In the meantime, let's cut a rug, and maybe even do some scheming,” Cohn adds.

Julie Cohn has over 35 years' experience in theatre, film, television, voiceover, and radio. She has served as Artistic Director to two multidisciplinary production companies, BEARS! In The City! and Palette Collective, and is the Creative Director for IntrigueX in Toronto. Julie is a celebrated veteran of Fringe festivals.

Other recent credits include: Zombie Apocalypse for Secret City (Direction); and What We Do in the Shadows for FX (Acting). Stay tuned for Julie's upcoming detective comedy TV series, Whomst've?! (Writing, Acting). Julie also runs the largest escape room meetup in the world, in conjunction with Morty.

OOGA CHAKA to Make World Premiere at Toronto Fringe Festival

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 21:36:53 PST

From the teams at Pucker's and Parlous Theatre comes OOGA CHAKA, a prehistoric comedic satire about the accidental invention of theatre, written by Ethan Zuchkan. The production premieres at the Toronto Fringe Festival, running June 30th to July 12th at the Michael Young Theatre at Soulpepper, with opening night on July 2nd at 6:15pm.

Since the dawn of time, humans have searched for new ways to express themselves. Meet Bungu and Kiki, two prehistoric cave painters who make a groundbreaking discovery: how to take their stories off the cave wall.

OOGA CHAKA is a 100% historically questionable retelling of the world's first theatre makers as they sharpen their sticks, refine their scripts, and discover THE ARTIST'S WAY. But beneath the faux fur, rocks, and unbridled ambition, it's really a show about art, ego, collaboration, and the deeply human need to create something meaningful — while also not taking any of it too seriously. Equal parts ridiculous, heartfelt, and fully committed to the bit, OOGA CHAKA asks the big questions: What if the first-ever artists were complete idiots? And what if they were also geniuses? And honestly… are we that much different now?

The creative team includes writer Ethan Zuchkan; director Steven Hao (郝邦宇); associate director and marketing manager Allison MacKenzie; producer and dramaturg Jacob Willis; sound designer Abbey Kruse; lighting designer Mathilda Kane; set and props designer Sabrina Pye; Costume Designer Claudia Matas; production stage manager Nazerah Carlisle; stage manager Liam Cox; and social media manager Zachary Morgan. The cast features Ben Yoganathan, Rachel Cucheron, Nick Eddie, Kole Durnford, Ben Kopp, Margot Greve, and Ruaridh MacDonald.

OOGA CHAKA

June 30th - July 12th, 2026 (Full Schedule Below)

Opening Night, Thursday, July 2nd at 6:15 pm

Michael Young Theatre, Soulpepper, 50 Tank House Lane,

Tickets: Pick-Your-Price (Opening Night, minimum $10) or $15.25 + fees

Box Office: https://fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/ooga-chaka