Hailey Gillis. A Doll's House. Photo Lorne Brigman
Canadian Stage shares our work on four stages spread across our great city. The St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts and the Berkeley Street Theatre Complex bookend the vibrant St. Lawrence Market neighbourhood and run along what was once the shore of Lake Ontario. Our beautiful High Park Amphitheatre is nestled within the grassy hills and forests of our city’s most beloved park. And the Winter Garden Theatre is located in the heart of Toronto's bustling downtown core. Canadian Stage is grateful to be able to tell our stories on this bountiful land that we all share. This sacred land has held story for thousands of years: stories that live in the fabric of who we are as a nation. Canadian Stage would like to acknowledge and thank the original caretakers and knowledge keepers of this territory: the Anishinaabe Nations (including the Mississaugas of the Credit), the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, and the Wendat and Métis Nations. We give thanks to the Nations recorded and unrecorded, acknowledged and unacknowledged, who also share the responsibility for this territory. We honour the Dish With One Spoon Treaty and our responsibility to peaceably share and care for the resources that surround us. We are honoured to be in this meeting place called Tkaronto that many First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people from across Turtle Island call home.
Cast of Hamlet. Costume & Set Design: Joshua Quinlan, Lighting Design: Logan Raju Cracknell. Photo: Dahlia Katz
The word “unprecedented” has been pervasive since I began my tenure at Canadian Stage nearly seven years ago. Unprecedented global pandemic. Unprecedented government-mandated closures. Unprecedented economic inflation. Unprecedented polarization. And now, unprecedented shifts in our world’s geopolitics.
At each juncture, I have been called to reflect on what is required from an arts institution like Canadian Stage. For guidance, I have often returned to the seeds of Canadian Stage, which were planted nearly a century ago when pioneering actor and director Dora Mavor Moore began her quest to establish the first professional theatre in Toronto. Dora had been inspired by W.B. Yeats, who had co-founded Ireland’s national theatre, the Abbey, in 1904. Yeats was unqualified in his ambition: the Abbey was meant “to bring upon the stage the deeper emotions of Ireland.” Dora wanted the same for Canada and, eventually, Canadian Stage was born to bring upon the stage the deeper emotions of Canada.
Like many Canadians, I am experiencing a torrent of emotion about our sovereign democracy being threatened. Unprecedented times yield unprecedented emotions.
Our 25.26 season brings together some of our nation’s most accomplished artists to dive into these waters. They examine how history and politics impact our daily lives and our most intimate relationships. They offer new narratives. They create pathways towards forgiveness and healing. They create laughter, beauty, and hope.
Among the emotions that I feel is an intensified patriotism for our great country. It is an honour to be a part of an organization with such a long legacy of putting Canadian stories on its stages. And I am proud that, under Monica and my leadership, Canadian Stage has grown into the city’s largest employer of Canadian theatre artists and technicians. We are a nation of extraordinary talent and Canadian Stage is a place to revel in it.
Although Canadian stories remain the core of next season, I am also inviting Canadian artists to work on three American plays that speak to today’s world in vital, original, and insightful ways. I stay committed to Canadian Stage’s internationalist mandate despite my outrage. It is often said that art knows no borders. I believe that this is because the human experience is universal.
I love the theatre because it reminds us of our shared humanity. And I love our country and its people because Canada strives to do humanity well. May Canada and its stages remain strong and free.
A Note from Artistic Director Brendan Healy
Hamlet opening night. Set: Joshua Quinlan. Photo: Dahlia Katz
As the curtain rises on a new season, we invite you to join us on a journey of discovery, laughter, and reflection. Whether you are a theatre regular or just starting to explore, we have something for everyone, from familiar favourites to exciting new experiences.
If you are a returning subscriber (or considering becoming one) we’re excited to offer more next season. Expanded benefits include VIP access to new events and concerts, keeping you first in line for what’s next. Beyond perks, your support is crucial. For organizations like ours, primarily funded through box office sales and fundraising, subscriptions are more than tickets; they are a lifeline. They allow us to invest in new work, create lasting memories, and continue to offer thought-provoking theatre.
We’re thrilled to share that our subscriber base has grown by another 55% this past season. Many of our subscribers are also generous donors, and their support enables us to invest in more productions and local artists. Thanks to this growing community, we’ve nearly doubled our investment in programming. Thank you for being part of this journey.
As a teen in the 90s, I saw Dream in High Park, and it ignited my lifelong passion for theatre. What I remember most wasn’t just the play, but the connection with others in the audience—strangers, yet not strangers. In the theatre, we don’t just watch, we experience the story together, learning about each other through laughter, breath, and emotion.
Thank you for being part of the Canadian Stage community. Here’s to another season of unforgettable experiences and connections.
Monica Esteves Executive Director
A Note from Executive Director Monica Esteves
Wizard of Oz audience. Photo: Dahlia Katz
Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? Hailey Gillis, Paul Gross. Set & Costume Design: Julie Fox, Lighting Design: Kimberly Purtell. Photo: Dahlia Katz
The best seats at the best price
• Save up to 35% on tickets
• Exchange with no fees*
• First selection of seats
Be a VIP
• Own your favourite seats: we’ll save your seats for you every season!
• Enjoy priority access to subscriber-exclusive events
• Complimentary tickets to Subscriber Night at Dream in High Park
Enhance your experience with additional perks
• Drink Vouchers and discounts at the Berkeley Street Theatre Bar
• Discounts and perks from our local Restaurant Partners
• 2 Complimentary Bring-a-Friend tickets for the 25.26 Season
THE FAR SIDE OF THE
By Robert Lepage / Ex Machina
Yves Jacques. Design: Robert Lepage, Costume Design: Marie-Chantale Vaillancourt, Assistant Set Design: Marie-Chantale Pelletier, Assistant Lighting Design: Bernard White, Puppet Design: Pierre Robitaille & Sylvie Courbron.
Photo: David Leclerc
Borders divide, the cosmos unites
Shows the timelessness
of
dreaming about a different world — The Guardian
Canadian legend Robert Lepage returns to Canadian Stage after sold-out productions of 887 and Needles and Opium.
Set against the Cold War's fierce U.S.-Soviet rivalry, this gripping story explores the personal and political turmoil of an era defined by global tension with a uniquely Canadian perspective. Through the tale of two Québec City brothers, Lepage's stunning use of multimedia and visual storytelling draws the audience into a world on the brink of change and portrays the impact of global conflict on the individual.
Robert Lepage is a recipient of the Governor General’s Performing Arts Award for Lifetime Artistic Achievement
The Far Side of the Moon is funny, melancholic, and introspective all at once. It forces us to ponder about the world beyond our solar system, grief, and the miraculous potential of human imagination. — Time Out
Stunningly theatrical, visually striking and emotionally uplifting — Variety
November 1 - 16, 2025
Bluma Appel Theatre
An Ex Machina production presented by Canadian Stage
The Bluma Appel Theatre season is underwritten by: John & Nancy Embry Production Underwriters: Trina McQueen, O.C. Jim Lawrence & David Salak
Robert Lepage Director Olivier Normand Performer
A fresh perspective on a literary touchstone
Shattering and exhilarating… a transfixing slow-boil take on the landmark Ibsen drama — Hollywood Reporter
Nora appears to be the perfect wife, but beneath the surface she harbours a secret that threatens to unravel her seemingly happy world. As the truth emerges, Nora gradually awakens to her own desires, and the play builds toward a radical act of self-liberation. In this crisp, strikingly modern adaptation, Artistic Director Brendan Healy (Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf, The Inheritance) revitalizes another groundbreaking classic, making it more immediate, intimate, and electrifying than ever with an extraordinary ensemble of Canadian acting talent.
What was shocking about Ibsen’s play in 1879 was that Nora’s act was shocking for its time. What’s shocking now is that it is still so shocking. — New York Times
January 17 –February 1, 2026
Bluma Appel Theatre
A Canadian Stage Production
The Bluma Appel Theatre season is underwritten by: John & Nancy Embry
Clyde runs a truck stop sandwich shop, staffed by ex-convicts looking for a shot at redemption. Despite her callous management style, the cooks learn to reclaim their lives, find purpose, and become inspired to dream by their shared quest to create the perfect sandwich. A buoyant play full of witty dialogue, Clyde’s is a transcendent story about second chances, rising above past mistakes, and reconnecting with the world.
Full of sizzling wit, big heart, and mouthwatering ambition, Clyde’s serves up a thrilling, highenergy ride—think The Bear meets Broadway. Helmed by returning director Philip Akin (The Lehman Trilogy, Fat Ham), an all-star Canadian cast takes on this deliciously funny and deeply moving play.
A poignant story about the meaning of second chances, loaded with laugh-out-loud funny
— The Hollywood Reporter
April 11 –April 26, 2026
Bluma Appel Theatre
A Canadian Stage Production
The Bluma Appel Theatre season is underwritten by: John & Nancy Embry
Production Underwriter:
Paul Maranger & Robert Brown
Philip Akin Director
Sterling Jarvis Montrellous
Augusto Bitter Rafael
Johnathan Sousa Jason
Jasmine Case Letitia
Sophia Walker Clyde
jokes
Canadian Premiere Nominated for 5 Tony Awards, including Best Play
Toronto’s favourite holiday panto returns!
The Ross Petty Panto is back and it’s as funny, musically appealing, and sharply satirical as ever
— Toronto Star
Get ready to root for the underdog and boo the baddies! This year, the legendary outlaw tale takes on a bold twist—our Robin is a spirited, savvy heroine leading her merry band of misfits in a fight for justice and kindness. Join Robin and her friends on a medieval romp through merry old Torontoshire! Journey through the lush forests of High Park, go head-to-head with the greedy Prince John, and rescue those in need - all with a hearty dose of laughter, pop hits, and plenty of surprises.
Robin Hood delivers all the Panto fun you love: a sparkling spoof on a classic tale, hilarious comedy, dazzling musical numbers, and an intergenerational celebration that's perfect for the whole family.
There’s no show like the panto, there’s no city like Toronto — Globe and Mail
World Premiere
16 Dora Nominations for Petty's Pantos!
November 26 –January 4, 2026
The Winter Garden Theatre
A Canadian Stage Production in association with the Elgin and Winter Garden Theatres
Sponsored by
Malinda Carroll Ensemble
Jean-Paul Parker Ensemble
Ross Petty Executive Producer Emeritus Mary Francis Moore Director
Julia Pulo Robin Hood
Eddie Glen Friar Tuck
Julius Sermonia Little John
Praneet Akilla Marion
Daniel Williston Sparkle Bum
Kyle Brown Ensemble
Damien Atkins Prince John
Cara Hunter Ensemble
Subscribers hold the golden key with exclusive early access to panto tickets!
Welcome to Slave Play, a sharp, provocative, and wildly entertaining theatrical sensation that has sparked conversations from Broadway to London. Now making its Canadian premiere, this electrifying play by Jeremy O. Harris turns up the heat on love, race, and relationships in ways that are bold, unexpected, and impossible to forget. A daring, seductive, and razor-sharp satire, Slave Play takes audiences on a journey where pleasure and history meet, flipping assumptions and igniting sparks along the way. It’s a show that’s as playfully cheeky as it is thoughtprovoking, designed to make you feel, think, and maybe even blush.
Supercharged... and often terribly funny — Vulture
September 27 –October 19, 2025
Marilyn and Charles Baillie Theatre
A Canadian Stage Production
The Baillie Theatre season is underwritten by:
The William and Nona Heaslip Foundation
Slave Play is supported by the Founding Donors of the BraveWorks Fund: Alexandra Baillie
Ian & Kiki Delaney
Jordan Laffrenier Director
Kwaku Okyere Gary
Beck Lloyd Teá
Amy Rutherford Alana
Sophia Walker Kaneisha
Gord Rand Jim
Jess Salgueiro Patricia
Sébastien Heins Philip Justin Eddy Dustin
Canadian Premiere
Nominated for 12 Tony Awards including Best Play
A Caribbean sailor's search for belonging
Playwright Kanika Ambrose has a gift for beautifully immersive dialogue — The Vancouver Courier
It’s May Day 1958. A small group of Black sailors are stranded on the island of St. Kitts after a terrible storm. As the looming unknowns of imperialism threaten their dreams of a better future, the sailors indulge in a responsibilityfree night on the town.
In Moonlight Schooner, Dora Award-winning playwright Kanika Ambrose shares an evocative tale about the systemic and deliberate breaking of Black men by colonial forces during the Windrush Generation, and the casualties left behind.
Moonlight Schooner is the highly anticipated third collaboration between celebrated playwright Kanika Ambrose and director Sabryn Rock, following our place and Truth
World Premiere
From the writer of our place, Dora Award winner for Outstanding New Play
November 21 –December 14, 2025
Marilyn and Charles Baillie Theatre
A Necessary Angel Production in association with Canadian Stage and Tarragon Theatre
Necessary Angel Theatre Company is generously supported by:
Lead Season Sponsor
Lead Season Support
Diane Blake & Stephen Smith
Lead Production Support
The William and Nona Heaslip Foundation
The Sabourin Family Foundation
The Lawrence Schafer Foundation
The Lindy Green Family Foundation
Meehan Family Investments Inc.
Additional Production Support
Kevin & Roger Garland
Sheena Macdonald & Phil Schmitt
Sabryn Rock Director Michael Blake Shabine
Lisa Codrington Janine
danjelani ellis Vincey
Daren A. Herbert Timothy
Nathan D. Simmons Lyle
Moonlight Schooner
By Kanika Ambrose
Michael Blake and Daren A. Herbert.
Photo: Dahlia Katz
Marilyn and Charles Baillie Theatre
YOU, ALWAYS
By Erin Shields
Liisa Repo-Martell, Maev Beaty Photo: Lorne Bridgman
Marilyn and Charles Baillie Theatre
A portrait of sisterhood
Shields’ writing has its own musicality, building up a polyphony of moods and images — Montreal Gazette
In the wake of shocking news, sisters Liz and Delia unravel a lifetime of memories, traveling across space and time to trace the push and pull of their relationship over their fifty-year shared history with humour, nuance, and candor. You, Always is an ode to sisterhood – to the brutal honesty, raucous silliness, and unflinching support of an indispensable sibling.
This new play by Governor General’s Award-winning playwright Erin Shields was developed as part of Canadian Stage’s New Work Development Program. Directed by Nightwood Theatre Artistic Director Andrea Donaldson, this stunning new play strikes a universal chord.
Liisa Repo-Martell gives a marvelously forceful performance — Stage Door
There’s no better way to spend time in a theatre than with the incandescent Maev Beaty — Now Toronto
January 31 –February 15, 2026
Marilyn & Charles Baillie Theatre
A Canadian Stage Production
The Baillie Theatre season is underwritten by:
The William and Nona Heaslip Foundation
Production Underwriters: Alan Rowe & Bryan Blenkin
Supported by the EmpowHer Fund Founding Donors:
Catherine Graham & Katy Graham Debost
Janet L'Heureux
Supporting sponsor:
New Work Development
Lead Donor:
Fabio Mascarin Foundation
Andrea Donaldson Director
Liisa Repo-Martell Delia
Maev Beaty Liz
World Premiere
A puppet-powered parody of Romeo and Juliet
Charmingly hilarious... Little Willy is sweet dirty fun
— Vancouver Presents
After a sold-out run of Little Dickens in 2022, world-renowned Canadian artist Ronnie Burkett returns to Canadian Stage with his irreverent army of marionettes, this time with a sassy take on Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. Burlesque star Dolly Wiggler starts the show with an Elizabethan striptease in this riotously funny improvised mash-up of one of Shakespeare’s most beloved plays. All the leading ladies of the Daisy ensemble battle for the role of Juliet, including faded diva Esme Massengill in a boozy interpretation of the lovesick ingénue. Beloved audience favourites Schnitzel and Mrs. Edna Rural are back in supporting roles, and adding to the fun and mayhem, The Bard himself joins The Daisy Theatre cast for a twisted retelling of this tragic romance – with strings attached.
You have to simply be open to whatever happens next in Burkett’s beautiful brain — Globe and Mail
February 27 –April 5, 2026
Marilyn and Charles Baillie Theatre
A Production of Ronnie Burkett Theatre of Marionettes Presented by Canadian Stage
The Baillie Theatre season is underwritten by:
The William and Nona Heaslip Foundation
Ronnie Burkett Creator & Performer
Ronnie Burkett is a recipient of the Siminovitch Prize in Theatre
WILLY Little
By Ronnie Burkett
Ronnie Burkett. Set & Puppetry Design: Ronnie Burkett. Photo: Dahlia Katz.
Marilyn and Charles Baillie Theatre
Dream in High Park
Romeo &Juliet
Written by William Shakespeare
Star-crossed lovers under the night sky
One of the country’s longest-running and most beloved theatre traditions
— The Globe & Mail
Immerse yourself in the thrilling world of Shakespeare’s most touching tragedy, brought vividly to life by director Marie Farsi (Fifteen Dogs, Ghost Quartet) and a fantastic ensemble of players.
Celebrating 42 years of Dream in High Park, this outdoor theatre experience is Toronto's favourite summer tradition. Grab your family, pack a picnic, and settle in for a magical evening of Shakespeare under the stars.
Exceptional storytelling and an idyllic escape from the clamour of city life — Intermission Magazine
July 13 –August 31, 2025
High Park Amphitheatre
A Canadian Stage Production
Lead Corporate Sponsor
Production Underwriter
The Westaway Charitable Foundation
Marie Farsi Director
Michaela Washburn Nurse
Dan Mousseau Mercutio
Lili Beaudoin Juliet
Asher Rose Prince
Joella Crichton Lady Capulet
Ziska Louis Tybalt
Praneet Akilla Romeo
Meilie Ng Benvolio
Matthew G. Brown Lord Montague
Mike Shara Lord Capulet
Daniel Krmpotic Paris
Diego Matamoros Friar Lawrence
Become a Subscriber
Canadian Stage subscribers have first access to Toronto’s best theatre. Your seats are waiting!
The cast of Wizard of Oz. Set Design: Michael Gianfrancesco, Costume Design: Ming Wong, Lighting Design: Bonnie Beecher, Projection Design: Cameron Fraser. Photo: Dahlia Katz
Subscriber Benefits by Package
Own your seats! Enjoy exclusive pre-sale access and reserve your preferred seats season after season
Exchange with no fees
Exclusive & complimentary access to special programming and events
Access to extra concerts and events
2 Complimentary Bring-a-Friend tickets for the 25.26 Season
Complimentary tickets for Romeo & Juliet on Subscriber Night at Dream in High Park
Access
Access
Theatre Bar
Parking discount at Royal Park, conveniently located near our theatres
Subscribe Now:
The best way to experience the 25.26 Season is with Season Tickets
Join the exclusive group of subscribers who can reserve their favourite seats season after season. With our Season Tickets package, you’ll get to claim your spot to the 7 incredible productions at the Bluma Appel Theatre and the Marilyn and Charles Baillie Theatre.
Slave Play | The Far Side of the Moon | Moonlight Schooner
A Doll's House | You, Always | Little Willy | Clyde's Tickets to the Holiday Panto are always available to add on to your package at your subscriber pricing.
Season Ticket Benefits
The best seats at the best price
• Save up to 35% on tickets
• Exchange with no fees*
• First selection of seats
Be a VIP
• Own your favourite seats: exclusive first access to the seats you love
• Enjoy priority access to subscriber-exclusive events like backstage tours, special events and concerts
• Complimentary tickets on Subscriber Night at Dream in High Park
• Book before June 14, 2025 to receive 2 complimentary Bring-a-Friend tickets for the 25.26 Season
Enhance your experience with additional savings
• 30% discount at the Berkeley Street Theatre Bar
• Drink Vouchers at the Berkeley Street Theatre Bar for the 25.26 Season
• Discounts and perks from our local Restaurant Partners
• Parking discount at Royal Park, just around the corner!
Season Tickets Packages
Build Your Own
Build Your Own Subscriptions
Build a subscription with your selection of 8, 6, or 4 shows.
For the ultimate flexibility paired with great pricing, you can Build Your Own Subscription with the shows and dates that work best for you.
Slave Play | The Far Side of the Moon | Moonlight Schooner
A Doll's House | You, Always | Little Willy | Clyde's | Robin Hood
How it works:
• Select your preferred shows
• Select your preferred dates
• Select your preferred ticket type (A+, A, B, or C)
Packages
Bowden. Lighting Design: Leigh Ann Vardy. Photo: Dahlia Katz
Locations
The Marilyn & Charles Baillie Theatre at the Berkeley Street Theatre Complex
26 Berkeley Street
The Berkeley Street Complex is the home of Canadian Stage and houses both the Marilyn and Charles Baillie Theatre and the Upstairs Theatre Box Office Hours
• Monday – Friday: 12pm – 5pm or until showtime
• Saturday: 12pm until showtime (performance days only)
• Sunday: Two hours prior to showtime (performance days only)
Bluma Appel Theatre
27 Front Street East
Canadian Stage also performs in the Bluma Appel Theatre, housed in the St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts
Box Office Hours
• Two hours prior to showtime (performance days only)
Winter Garden Theatre
189 Yonge Street
The Winter Garden Theatre is the home of the holiday Panto!
Box Office Hours
• Two hours prior to showtime (performance days only)
FRONTSTE THEESPLANADE
Royal Park
Join the Canadian Stage Family!
Your support enables us to present ground-breaking performances, invest in artists and the development of new work, and grow community and accessibility, so that everyone can experience the best in classical and contemporary theatre at Canadian Stage.
Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? Martha Burns, Paul Gross. Set & Costume Design: Julie Fox, Lighting Design: Kimberly Purtell. Photo: Dahlia Katz.
Become a Member Today
Memberships start at $75 per year and include exclusive benefits*, such as:
• Invitations to special events (see below)
• Complimentary drinks at the Berkeley Street Theatre Bar
• Access to Private Lounge Thursdays at the Bluma Appel Theatre
• Recognition in the Annual Report and donor listings
* Benefits available at different giving levels. For the full list of benefits, please visit www.canadianstage.com/support-us/donor-benefits
25.26 Season Special Member Events:
The Far Side of the Moon Post-Performance Reception Nov 2, 2025 Patron’s Club Members at $500+ and Above
Robin Hood Opening Night Holiday Party Nov 29, 2025
A Doll’s House Opening Night Cocktail Reception Jan 21, 2026
Clyde’s Opening Night Pre-Show Party Apr 15, 2026
To make a donation, scan the QR code or contact us directly
Club Members at $1,000+ and Above
Club Members and Above
Club Members and Above
Early bird savings in effect until May 16! Save an extra 5% when you buy your subscriptions by May 16. Reserve the best seats in the house and guarantee your access to our Subscription Series.
My Name is Lucy Barton. Maev Beaty. Set & Costume Design: Michael Gianfrancesco. Lighting Design: Bonnie Beecher. Projection Design: Amelia Scott. Photo: Dahlia Katz
October
November
December
January 2026
February
Saul Rubinek. Playing Shylock. Set & Costume Design: Shawn Kerwin. Lighting Design: Steven Hawkins. Photo: Dahlia Katz
Thank you to our 25.26 Season Supporters
Season Sponsor & Access Partner
Bluma Appel Season Underwriter
John & Nancy Embry
Dream in High Park
Lead Corporate Sponsor
David W. Binet
Trina McQueen, O.C.
Baillie Theatre Season Underwriter The William and Nona Heaslip Foundation
Production Underwriter The Westaway Charitable Foundation
Production Underwriters & Sponsors
Elaine Kierans & Shawn McReynolds
BraveWorks Alexandra Baillie
Ian & Kiki Delaney
EmpowHer
Catherine Graham & Katy Graham Debost
Janet L'Heureux
Marion Armstrong Charitable Foundation
Paul Maranger & Robert Brown
Alan Rowe & Bryan Blenkin
Programmatic Support Lead Donors
Education & Community Outreach Emerging Artists Support
Marilyn & Charles Baillie Family Foundation
Ed & Fran Clark Future Forward Fund Fabio Mascarin Foundation
Foundation and Corporate Supporters
The Paul Butler and Chris Black Foundation at Toronto Foundation
Kingfisher Foundation
New Work Development
Henry White Kinnear Foundation
Hotel Sponsor
City Builders Principal Member Media Sponsor Government
