Philip Akin News

Canadian Stage will conclude its season with the Canadian Premiere of the newest play from two-time Pulitzer Prize-winner Lynn Nottage, CLYDE'S, on stage April 11th to 26th at the Bluma Appel Theatre. 

In a world where AI increasingly tries to consume and simulate real human experiences, theatre sometimes feels like one of the last gasps of being in a room together. When we watch a show with others, respiration synchronizes, empathy increases, and information retention improves. It’s one of my favourite feelings.

The Shaw Festival has released casting and creative teams for its 2026 season, which runs April 2 through December 23 in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Productions include new stagings of Amadeus, Jeeves & Wooster in Perfect Nonsense, and additional works across three venues.

A new kind of holiday classic, THE CHRISTMAS MARKET is a radical and deeply felt story set against the shimmering bustle of a snowy holiday market. Learn more here!

The Shaw Festival has unveiled its 64th season today, set to begin in April 2026, featuring Funny Girl and more. See the full lineup here and learn more about the season!

Crow’s Theatre has revealed its 42nd season of programming and revealed an innovative three-year partnership with Soulpepper Theatre that imagines a collaborative and robust vision for the future of theatre in Toronto. Learn more!

Canadian Stage has unveiled the organization’s 25.26 season, marked by an exhilarating program of hotly anticipated Canadian Premieres, World Premieres of new Canadian plays, the return of beloved Canadian icons, and more.

In February, Canadian Stage will present the 2022 Pulitzer Prize winner for Drama, James Ijames’ FAT HAM. Learn more about the upcoming performance and find out how to get tickets here!

Canadian Stage has eliminated a 37-year deficit for the 2023-24 season, marking a significant financial milestone for the renowned arts organization. Learn more!

The Black Shoulders Legacy Award has announced its 2024 recipients, recognizing outstanding contributions in the arts. The award highlights individuals who have made significant impacts in their respective fields.

 Marcus Gardley’s acclaimed drama The House That Will Not Stand begins previews tomorrow at the Jackie Maxwell Studio Theatre.

The Toronto Alliance for the Performing Arts revealed the 228 nominations for the 44th Annual Dora Mavor Moore Awards. See the full list!

Obsidian Theatre hasextended their Canadian premiere production of seven methods of killing kylie jenner, by the internationally acclaimed and award-winning British playwright and actorJasmine Lee-Jones.  

The Philip Akin Black Shoulders Legacy Award steering committee is accepting applications for the 2024 Awards, to be given to five performing and non-performing artists who show promise and are working towards a future in theatre.

As their acclaimed 23.24 season continues with the Canadian Premiere of seven methods for killing kylie jenner set to begin previews on May 12th, Obsidian Theatre is thrilled to announce the details of their upcoming 24.25 season.

 Following the celebrated Canadian Premiere of THREE SISTERS, co-produced with Soulpepper Theatre, Obsidian Theatre concludes their 23.24 season with another Canadian premiere in May: seven methods of killing kylie jenner, by the internationally acclaimed and award-winning British playwright and actorJasmine Lee-Jones.  

The Toronto Alliance for the Performing Arts (TAPA) announced today that the 44th Annual Dora Mavor Moore Awards will be held Monday, June 24th at the Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre Centre. The celebration will be hosted by Toronto theatre icon Ryan G. Hinds.

Canadian Stage has unveiled its 24.25 season. See full programming and learn how to purchase tickets.

Jordi Mand's “comedy about death” In Seven Days will make its world premiere on the Grand Theatre's Spriet Stage from February 13 – March 2. Learn more about the show here!

It’s been a strong year for Toronto theatre. I saw 145 shows this year in Toronto and beyond, and am happy to report that theatre is alive and well. I’ve laughed, sobbed, coughed (discreetly into a mask), and cheered my way through our stages in 2023. Here are some local highlights.