All in the Timing
 Down n’ Out Productions presents an intimate staging of David Ives' All in the Timing, in conjunction with Toronto’s popular Winterlicious Festival. This dynamic evening of short plays takes advantage of several spaces in historic Campbell House Museum. For evening shows, Down n’ Out and Campbell House are offering an exclusive dinner and show package as part of the Winterlicious Festival. Patrons will enjoy a specially prepared, gourmet three-course meal in historic Campbell House prior to attending the performance. Executive chef Simon Kattar of A La Carte Kitchen has created a menu that includes dishes hailing from the sun-drenched Mediterranean to the snow-capped mountains of Levant. Doors open for dinner at 6pm. All In The Timing is a collection of six one-act plays by American playwright David Ives. Ives’ plays are known for their verbal dexterity, theatrical invention and quirky humour. All In The Timing won the Outer Critics Circle Playwriting Award and the John Gassner Playwriting Award, and ran for two years Off-Broadway. Performed by Ben Clost, Alison Deon, Madeleine Donohue, and Michael Spasevski and directed by Jonathan Geenen. Runs Jan. 28 to Feb. 12. 160 Queen St. West at University Avenue. For tickets call (416) 597-0227 ext.2 or email info@campbellhousemuseum.ca. Sunday pay-what-you-can matinees at 2pm.
Photo:by Karl Ang. (l to r) Michael Spasevski, Madeleine Donohue, Benjamin Clost, Alison Deon
 Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, heralded as America's Cultural Ambassador to the World, comes to the Sony Centre For The Performing Arts from February 2 to 4, 2012, under the dynamic leadership of new Artistic Director Robert Battle, and with programming that embraces the Ailey tradition of such beloved classics as Revelations and extends the legacy in dynamic new directions. After dance pioneer Alvin Ailey (1931-1989) led a now-fabled 1958 performance in New York that changed the perception of American dance, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater has gone on to perform for an estimated 23 million people in 71 countries on six continents, celebrating the African-American cultural experience and the American modern dance tradition. Starting in 1989, Judith Jamison led the Company for over two decades to unprecedented success. An exciting new era in Ailey history is beginning now with new Artistic Director Robert Battle. 1 Front St. East, Toronto. Tickets:1.855.872.SONY (7669) or online at www.sonycentre.ca
 The Lower Ossington Theatre (LOT) is wrapping their premiere fall/winter season with the wildly hilarious and much anticipated, “Avenue Q”. “ The musical hit, notable for the use of puppets alongside human actors. will be directed by Seanna Kennedy and choreographed by Amelia Hironaka. Winner of the TONY® “Triple crown" for Best Musical, Best Score and Best Book, "Avenue Q" tells the story of Princeton, a bright-eyed college grad who moves to New York City with big dreams and a tiny bank account. Unfortunately, the only apartment he can afford is way out on Avenue Q, where everyone is looking for the same things he is: a decent job, a stable relationship, and a 'purpose'. Join Princeton as he learns to embrace the ups and downs of city life and realizes that "The Real World" isn't so bad after all. After his standing ovation performance as Dr. Frank-N-Furter in the LOT’s recent production of “The Rocky Horror Show”, Adam Norrad will be returning as Trekkie Monster. Avenue Q is presented live on stage at the Lower Ossington Theatre from Jan. 18 to Feb. 4. 100A Ossington Avenue. Tickets: Online: www.lowerossingtontheatre.com. Telephone: 416.915.6747. Warning: Due to adult situations, “Avenue Q” is inappropriate for young children.
 Queen of Puddings Music Theatre, in association with Canadian Stage, presents Beckett: Feck It!. This elegiac, provocative show juxtaposes the shorter plays of Samuel Beckett with contemporary classical music from outstanding Irish composers inspired by Beckett’s appreciation for the absurd. This brand new production reunites renowned Canadian Beckett director Jennifer Tarver with Dáirine Ní Mheadhra and John Hess (music direction), and showcases a dynamic Canadian cast comprised of actors Laura Condlln, Michal Grzejszczak, Tom Rooney, and Sofia Tomic, who will share the stage with soprano Shannon Mercer and trumpet player Michael Fedyshyn. Queen of Puddings bring their signature contemporary twist to this invigorating evening of music, theatre, and Irish madness. More than any other writer, Irishman Samuel Beckett used the techniques of music composition in the structuring of his plays. His writing was inspired by some of the singular Irish characteristics, including a huge appreciation for the ridiculous, complete irreverence, and deep melancholia. The same qualities explode in the music chosen for Beckett: Feck It! It plays from February 17 to 25, 2012 at the Berkeley St. Theatre Downstairs. 26t Berkeley St. Tickets: 416.368.3110 or purchase online at: www.canadianstage.com'
 Robert Lepage, Canada’s internationally acclaimed theatrical genius, brings Toronto a must-see event! The Blue Dragon is the evocative tale of a Canadian in modern day China, told with eloquent dance, electrifying performance and spectacular, cinematic staging. The life of an expat Canadian living in Shanghai is turned upside down by two women — one from his Western past and one from his Asian present. Written by Robert Lepage and Marie Michaud, The Blue Dragon is a sequel to their brilliant collaborative work, The Dragon's Trilogy. The Blue Dragon shimmers with all Lepage’s hallmark hi-tech wizardry and storytelling magic! Performed predominantly in English, with some French and Mandarin (with English surtitles). The Blue Dragon plays at the Royal Alexandra Theatre from Jan. 10 to Feb. 19. 260 King Street West.Box Office: 414-872-1212 or 1-800-461-333
Online Sales: www.mirvish.com.
Photo by Erick Labbe.
A Brimful of Asha
 Tarragon Theatre presents the Why Not Theatre production of A Brimful of Asha, directed by Ravi Jain , written and starring Asha and Ravi Jain. Real-life mother and son, Asha and Ravi Jain, share the stage and tell this true (and very Canadian) story of generational and cultural clash. Asha believes it’s time for Ravi to get married and it’s up to her to help him find a bride. Ravi isn't so sure. He’s just embarked an exciting new phase in his professional life that means marriage will have to wait. Having just graduated from school in Paris, an opportunity that’s impossible to pass up comes his way – a trip to India to work as an artist, His parents decide that his trip to India is the perfect time to introduce Ravi to potential brides. Ravi doesn’t suspect a thing, but his mother is determined to have her son married. Ravi knows what he’s up against: a whole way of life cherished by his mother’s generation and those before her. Can we balance respect for the old world and love for the new? Can he remain true to himself and bring Asha some peace? A Brimful of Asha previews January 24, opens January 26 and closes February 19, 2012 in Tarragon Theatre’s Extra Space. 30 Bridgman Ave. Tickets: 416.531.1827 or www.tarragontheatre.com. Special performances also take place Sunday, February 5 and 12 at Dish Cooking Studio (390 Dupont Street) and include a cooking class with Asha, the performance, and a shared vegetarian Indian meal. Tickets for this event are $75.
Photo: by Cylla von Tiedemann. L to R: Asha Jain, Ravi Jain
Please click here for the Review of A Brimful of Asha.
Kick Start: 6 Choreographers Pushing Boundaries
 The CanAsian Dance Festival is helping to “kick start” short new works by six emerging, mid-career and independent artists. The chosen artists also receive, support for the development of their work with dramaturgy and mentorship. This year’s festival, KICK START: 6 Choreographers Pushing Boundaries, takes place from February 9 to 11, 2012 at Toronto’s Winchester Street Theatre (80 Winchester Street). Six choreographers have each been paired with a mentor|dramaturg who provided guidance, critique and encouragement to their creative process. The final works will be approximately 10 to 15 minutes long. William Yong (Toronto), working with Tedd Robinson (Ottawa); Susan Lee (Toronto), working with Elizabeth Langley (Montreal); Hiroshi Miyamoto (Toronto), working with Guillaume Bernardi (Toronto); Emily Cheung (Toronto), working with Peter Chin (Toronto); Meena Murugesan (Montreal), working with Janet O’Shea (Los Angeles); Tomomi Morimoto (Montreal), working with Elizabeth Langley (Montreal). Tickets: 416-504-7529 or online at www.CanAsianDanceFestival.com.
Photo: Meena Murugesan
 Acting Up Stage Company and Obsidian Theatre Company team up to present the Canadian premiere of Caroline, or Change, from January 21 (Opens Jan. 23) to February 12, 2012 at The Berkeley Street Theatre Downstairs. Caroline, an African American maid to a Southern Jewish family, is struggling to keep afloat both emotionally and economically, while the young son of her employer tries to make sense of the world following the death of his mother. Mixing fact and fantasy, symbolism and reality, plus a palette of over 20 musical styles, Caroline, or Change tells the story of ordinary people facing extraordinary change. Written by Pulitzer, Drama Desk, Tony and Emmy award-winner Tony Kushner (Angels In America) and Obie, New York Drama Critics Circle award-winning composer Jeanine Tesori (Thoroughly Modern Millie), Caroline, or Change premiered at the Public Theatre in 2003 and was subsequently produced on Broadway, at the National Theatre in London. It won the Drama Desk, Lucille Lortel and Olivier Award for Best Musical. Caroline, or Change is directed by Robert McQueen with musical direction by Reza Jacobs (The Dora winning-Assassins) and stars Arlene Duncan and Deborah Hay. The Berkeley St. Theatre is located at 26 Berkeley St. Toronto. Tickets: 416-368-3110 and Online at www.actingupstage.com.
Photo: Arlene Duncan taken by Adam Rankin.
Please click here for the Review of Caroline, or Change.
 Canadian Stage presents Cruel and Tender, a provocative play by Britain’s foremost contemporary playwright, Martin Crimp. Directed by celebrated filmmaker Atom Egoyan, this searing drama is based on an ancient Greek tragedy, but is set against today’s war on terror. Crimp's Cruel and Tender updates Sophocles’ Trachiniae (or The Women of Trachis). In Crimp’s bold and visceral re-telling, Heracles is transformed into a modern military general fighting a war on terror in bloodstained Africa. His pampered wife Amelia waits at home; unaware her world is about to be shattered with the arrival of Laela, a young African woman for whom her husband has committed unspeakable atrocities. Cruel and Tender is as much about the private wars waged in the domestic sphere as it is about modern politics. Starring are Daniel Kash as the General and Arsinée Khanjian as Amelia, with Nigel Shawn Williams, Thomas Hauff, Jeff Lillico, Abena Malika, Cara Ricketts, Brenda Robins, André Sills and Sarah Wilson. Cruel and Tender plays at the Bluma Appel Theatre from Jan 21 (Opens Jan. 26) to Feb. 18. Tickets are available online at www.canadianstage.com, by phone at 416.368.3110, or in person at the box office.
Photo by Bruce Zinger: Sarah Wilson, Arsinée Khanjian and Cara Ricketts .
Click here for the Review of Cruel and Tender.
 Last season’s critically acclaimed production of Dani Girl, a musical by Christopher Dimond and Michael Kooman, comes to Toronto presented by Talk Is Free Theatre(TIFT) and Show One Productions. Dani Girl follows the story of the precocious nine year-old who finds herself face to face with a life-threatening disease. Together with her teddy bear, imaginary guardian angel, and socially awkward hospital roommate, she embarks on a magical quest to reclaim her health. As Dani traverses the realms of fantasy and reality, she discovers what it means to really live! Simultaneously hilarious and heartbreaking, Dani Girl is a tale of life in the face of death, hope in the face of despair, and the indomitable power of the human imagination. This touching, lively and humorous work will preview on February 16, 2012, opens February 17, 2012 and run until March March 4, 2012 at the Theatre Passe Muraille BackspaceReprising her role as Dani is Toronto native and cabaret performer Gabi Epstein, with Jeff Madden, Jonathan Logan and Amanda LeBlanc. Musical Direction by Wayne Gwillim. Richard Ouzounian directs.
 Necessary Angel, in association with The Film Farm, is proud to announce the return of Divisadero: a performance, adapted by Michael Ondaatje from his Governor General Award-winning novel, and directed by Necessary Angel's Artistic Director, Daniel Brooks.Divisadero: a performance examines themes of memory, identity, love and the grip of the past on the present, and tells a story of a family that is forever changed by a single, violent event that sets fire to the rest of their lives. The production explores the intimate relationship between the speaker and the listener, and of language's ability to weave a magical spell. The production reunites the original cast of Liane Balaban, Maggie Huculak, Tom McCamus, Amy Rutherford and Justin Rutledge - the Juno-nominated musician who created music specifically for the piece. Performances run February 8-26 (Opens Feb. 9) at Theatre Passe Muraille's Mainspace, 16 Ryerson Avenue.For tickets and more information, visit www.necessaryangel.com/ divisadero or call Theatre Passe Muraille Arts Box Office at 416-504-7529
Photo: by Cylla von Tiedemann. Justin Rutledge (as Coop) and Maggie Huculak (as Anna)
The Double
 TheatreRUN, the Dora Award-winning company best known for co-creating the critically acclaimed smash hit Spent, presents the world premiere of The Double, a multi-disciplinary adaptation of Fyodor Dostoevsky's novella of the same name. Conceived, created and performed by Artistic Director Adam Paolozza (who also directs), Arif Mirabdolbaghi, bass-player and lyricist of the award-winning Canadian Metal band Protest The Hero, and Viktor Lukawaski, The Double combines physical theatre, mime and music for a jazzy exploration of alienation and paranoia. Dostoevsky's brilliant prose, mixed with a quirky original adaptation featuring live music, provides a hilarious (and painfully accurate) cautionary tale about one man's desperate attempts to fit in with a grotesque society and his gradual descent into madness when this fails. A dark comedic satire about our deepest fears of losing our identity, The Double previews February 2, opens February 3 and runs to February 19 at Factory Studio Theatre. 125 Bathurst St.Tickets: Factory Theatre box office at 416-504-9971 OR online at factorytheatre.ca. www.theatrerun.wordpress.com.
Photo: by Lacey Creighton. Arif Mirabdolbaghi in The Double.
Everything Under the Moon
 A year and a half in the making, Everything Under the Moon is the most ambitious creation to date by celebrated Toronto visual and performance artist Shary Boyle and innovative Winnipeg songwriter and performer Christine Fellows. Launching Harbourfront Centre's 2012 World Stage season in association with The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery, this wildly imaginative tale pairing hand-animated projected image with narrative song will enchant audiences of all ages. Boyle and Fellows have enchanted audiences internationally with their daring, moving collaborations, presenting wildly imaginative performances from Dawson City, Yukon to Paris, France. With Everything Under the Moon, they've pulled out all the stops, creating a modern classic epic adventure tale that blurs the lines between musical theatre and visual spectacle. Employing multiple overhead projectors, costumes and puppets alongside an original score performed on xylophone, percussion, wurlitzer, ukulele, cello, trumpet and voice, the production tells the story of two small, winged creatures on an urgent quest to save themselves and their respective species. One of Harbourfront Centre's Fresh Ground new works commissions, it premieres in a five-show run from February 18 to 23, at Enwave Theatre (through Family Day weekend and beyond.) 231 Queens Quay W. Tickets: Call 416-973-4000, email tickets@harbourfrontcentre.co
Photo: by Marc de Guerre. Sharry Boyle and Christine Fellows.
The God of Hell
Unit 102 Actors company presents Sam Shepard's The God of Hell, a tragic farce about small town dairy farmers, Emma and Frank, trying to live a peaceful life until Frank's old friend Haynes shows up who is running from the government for mysterious reasons involving plutonium. Another mysterious stranger named Welch shows up at the house and his aggressive patriotism puts Frank, Emma and Haynes to the test concluding in a final showdown over free will vs. conformity. After the tragedy of September 11, Sam Shepard wrote The God of Hell as a response. Shepard has described the play as "a take-off of Republican fascism." With the republican primary looming, the actors company thought it would be a perfect opportunity to bring this play to the forefront of Canadian theatre. Directed by Brandon Thomas, starring are Luis Fernandes, Jesse Ryder Hughes, David Lafontaine and Jenny Westoby. The God of Hell plays from Feb. 1 to 11 at Unit 102 Theatre, 376 Dufferin unit 102 ( Queen and Dufferin) Just south on Dufferin. Tickets at door or advance tickets are available through Unit 102 e-mail at unit102tix@gmail.com. Theatre info on-line: www.unit102theatre.com
The Golden Dragon
 Tarragon Theatre presents The Golden Dragon, written by award-winning German playwright Roland Schimmelpfennig and directed by Ross Manson, artistic director of Volcano Theatre. The Golden Dragon stars David Fox, Lili Francks, Tony Nappo, Anusree Roy and David Yee. In the cramped kitchen of The Golden Dragon, a ‘Chinese/Vietnamese/Thai restaurant’, a crisis is unfolding: a young Chinese cook—the new one, the one who’s looking for his sister—has a toothache. Without residency papers, his decayed tooth must be wrenched out by another member of the kitchen staff. The missing tooth lands in a bowl of Thai soup of a flight attendant. In the apartment building above them, a young couple fights and eats takeout, while another man escapes from his apartment to the restaurant below to avoid watching his wife move out. The same man ends up drinking with the shop-keeper of the dry goods store next door to the restaurant, who is more connected to the young Chinese man than anyone suspects. The Golden Dragon is a mosaic of intersecting lives, depicting the rootless nature of many people’s modern lives and the parallel world of migrant workers. It previews January 10, opens January 18 and closes February 19, 2012 in Tarragon Theatre’s Mainspace. 30 Bridgman Ave. Tickets are available by calling the box office at 416.531.1827 or by visiting www.tarragontheatre.com.
Photo: by Cylla von Tiedemann. foreground: Tony Nappo, David Fox. background: David Yee.
The Great Mountain
 Young Nuna has started to hear things she can’t figure out. Realizing she has inherited the ability to hear the spirits of rushing rivers and soaring mountains, Nuna’s grandmother takes her to the river and entrusts her to a boatman who brings her to where a glacier is melting and the spirit of a great mountain weeps. Does Nuna have the power to answer the mountain’s cry? In this retelling of the Aboriginal story of Jumping Mouse, a young girl discovers the transformative power of nature and the importance of courage. Young People's Theatre presents The Great Mountain, by Tracey Power and produced by Red Sky Performance. Directed by Alan Dilworth, The Great Mountain features Meegwun Fairbrother, Nicole Joy Fraser and Allyson Pratt. Recommended for Grades 1 to 7. Internationally renowned for its artistry and innovation, Red Sky Performance is Canada's leading company of contemporary world Indigenous performance in dance, theatre and music.The Great Mountain plays from Feb. 6 to 10 at Young People Theatre's Mainstage. 165 Front St. East. Box Office: 416.862.2222. Online: youngpeoplestheatre.ca
Photo: by Cylla von Tiedemann. Allyson Pratt and Meegwun Fairbrother in The Great Mountain (Red Sky)
Hamlet Live
 Hamlet Live is a new multi-platform production of William Shakespeare's masterpiece, Hamlet, which will be performed in a traditional theatre in downtown Toronto, and will also be broadcast online as a live stream performance. Set in the post-apocalyptic world of 2080, Hamlet Live is the perfect synthesis of old and new, where tradition meets innovation. Twenty industry professionals have come together to make this vision a reality and are going to live stream the show on the internet. This is something altogether new to Canada, and in its infancy in the world at large. The entire Hamlet Live team is currently working for free, for the love of the craft and this project. Hamlet Live was created by Kyle McDonald and Erynn Brook, who were then joined by Kurt Spenrath (Director), Ralph Small, Suzanne Bennett, Scott McCulloch, Kevin Robinson, Phil Borg, Devin Upham, and Luke Marty, all Toronto based actors. Lindsey Alston was brought on as Stage Manager and Production Manager, and Justin Ferrato as the Livestream Director and Digital Producer. Hamlet Live is their first production. Hamlet Live takes place at the The Annex Threatre, 730 Bathurst St. Previews show& stream on Jan. 26 and opens on Jan. 27 and runs until Feb. 11. Please check to see which nights are stream nights. For tickets and more information please see HamletLive.Com or http://www.hamletliveinto.eventbrite.com
Hughie
 The Alley Theatre Workshop presents Eugene O’Neill’s Hughie at The Theatre Centre. The rarely performed 45 minute two-character, one-act play has been performed on Broadway and on internationally-renowned stages around the world. This will mark the first time Hughie has been performed as a single bill in Canada. Hughie stars Dora-nominated actor and ATW Artistic Director, Michael Kash (Pounding Nails in the Floor With My Forehead, Where's My Money), in the role of small-time hustler Erie Smith. Laurence Dean Ifill will play the role of Charlie Hughes, the hotel’s new night clerk. Dora Award-winning, David Ferrydirects the play which is set in the lobby of a seedy New York City hotel. Hughie details the interaction between Kash’s eccentric Smith and Ifills’ Hughes, as Smith laments the death of Hughes’ predecessor. Hughie previews on Feb. 7, opens on Feb. 8 and plays until March 3 at the Theatre Centre, 100- 1087 Queen St. West. Tickets: Available at 416.538.0988 or email: boxoffice@theatrecentre.org.
Photo: Michael Kash as Hughie.
In the Heights
 Dancap Productions presents In the Heights, winner of four 2008 Tony Awards® – Best Musical, Best Music and Lyrics, Best Choreography and Best Orchestrations, as well the 2008 Grammy® Award for Best Musical Show Album. In the Heights tells the universal story of a vibrant community in Manhattan's Washington Heights – a place where the coffee from the corner bodega is light and sweet, the windows are always open, and the breeze carries the rhythm of three generations of music. It's a community on the brink of change, full of hopes, dreams and pressures, where the biggest struggles can be deciding which traditions you take with you, and which ones you leave behind. In the Heights is a musical about the importance of home, family and finding where you belong. The North American Touring Company comes to the Toronto Centre for the Arts from February 7 (Opens Feb. 7) to 19, 2012. 5040 Yonge St. Toronto Tickets can be purchased at www.DancapTickets.com, or call 416.644.3665 or 1.866.950.7469.
Is There Life After High School?
Over 20 graduates from Unionville High School’s Arts York program, celebrating it’s 25th year, will reunite to present the 1982 musical Is There Life After High School? in a one-night-only theatrical concert on Monday, February 13, 2012, at 7:30 p.m. The event is being staged to raise funds for Musical Works in Concert, a program created to develop and present original Canadian musicals. It will be held at the Markham Theatre for the Performing Arts, 171 Town Centre Boulevard. Tickets available in person at the box office, by calling 905-305-7469 or online at:http://www.markham.ca/wps/portal/Markham/RecreationCulture/MarkhamTheatre/. The cast features 1992 through 2004 alumni Salvatore Antonio, Marc Bendavid, Adam Brazier, Michael De Rosa, Rebecca Golden, Ian Grant, Dallas James-Rempel, Lisa Kisch, Karin Kuch- Simpson, Mario Mavrides, Tracy Michailidis, Zorana Sadiq, Shawn Tiesma, Ari Weinberg, and Cheryl Wright together with a 40-member choir of current U.H.S. and Arts York students.
 Soulpepper's 2012 Season launches with Kim's Convenience. Written by Soulpepper Academy alumnus Ins Choi and loosely based on the prodigal son story, Kim's Convenience describes the journey of a fractured but loving family confronting the future and forgiving the past. Winner of Best New Play (2010) and Best of Fringe (2011) at the Toronto Fringe Festival, this funny and touching play follows a Korean-Canadian family deciding the fate of their Regent Park convenience store. Soulpepper Academy alumna Weyni Mengesha directs an ensemble featuring Ins Choi and, in their Soulpepper debuts, Clé Bennett, Esther Jun, Paul Sun-Hyung Lee, and Jean Yoon. Kim's Convenience previews January 12, 2012, opens January 19, and runs until February 11 at the Young Centre for the Performing Arts, located at 55 Mill Street, Building 49, in the Distillery Historic District. Tickets are available now by calling the Young Centre box office at 416.866.8666 or by visiting soulpepper.ca.
Photo: by Leon Aureus. Paul Sun-Hyung Lee in Kim's Convenience.
 The Canadian Opera Company presents the Canadian premiere of acclaimed Finnish composer Kaija Saariaho’s Love from Afar (L’amour de loin), a haunting and vivid musical creation that has become one of the most performed and successful operas composed of this century. Arguably the greatest opera of the 21st century, it has been praised as a “haunting and resonant work... transfixing and utterly distinguished” by the New York Times.Love from Afar tells the story of a world-weary troubadour from France who carries on a long-distance love affair with a beautiful woman living in Tripoli. Although they never see or speak to each other, their feelings develop and grow through the efforts of an enigmatic Pilgrim, who carries messages of love and yearning between the two. This new COC production is helmed by COC Music Director Johannes Debus and visionary director Daniele Finzi Pasca, and features an all-Canadian cast of voices both familiar and new to the COC stage: baritone Russell Braun, soprano Erin Wall and mezzo-soprano Krisztina Szabó. Sung in French with English SURTITLES™, Love from Afar runs for eight performances at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts on Feb. 2, 4, 8, 10, 12, 14, 18 and 22, 2012. Tickets are available online at coc.ca, by calling 416-363-8231, or in person at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts Box Office, located at 145 Queen St. W.,
Photo: by Annemie Augustijns. Rachel Harnisch as Clémence in the Vlaamse Opera production of Love from Afar, 2010.
 Toronto Masque Theatre (TMT) proposes a toast to the heart with Masques of Love: Romance and Heartbreak through the Ages at the Enoch Turner Schoolhouse at 8:00 p.m. on February 3 and 4, 2012. Torch songs and blues standards rub shoulders with Renaissance lute songs as TMT ponders the rocky road of romance led by the versatile and internationally-renowned singer Patricia O’Callaghan, blues guitarist and “playing encyclopedia” Ken Whiteley, celebrated actor Martin Julien and virtuoso lutenist Terry McKenna. They are joined by some of Canada’s top classical voices. One of the evening’s highlights is Neruda Canciones, a 2006 TMT commission by Canadian composer Omar Daniel set to the love poetry of Pablo Neruda. TMT Artistic Director Larry Beckwith has assembled some of the country’s best artists across several genres for this salute to all things romantic, choosing one of the city’s oldest and most evocative venues, a romantically transformed Enoch Turner Schoolhouse, as a backdrop. Pre-show chat with TMT artistic director Larry Beckwith and composer Omar Daniel each night at 7:15 p.m. 106 Trinity Street, TorontoTickets: Purchase by phone: 416-410-4561 / Online: www.torontomasquetheatre.com
Photo: Patricia O'Callaghan
 b current Performing Arts in co-production with Theatre Archipelago presents the full stage mounting of Obeah Opera. A total musical journey with a twist, the evocative production celebrates significant influence of black music combining blues, folk, jazz, gospel, spirituals, R&B, and traditional genres. Created (book, libretto, and music) by Nicole Brooks, this mesmerizing work will be presented as part of Black History Month at the Bathurst Cultural Centre from February 16 to March 4, 2012. Obeah Opera explores the Caribbean connection of a notorious time in North American history and tells the story of five woman accused of abominable spiritual acts in the peaceful Puritan Town where they live. The opera is loosely based on historical texts of the infamous witch-hunts and 17th century trials in Salem Massachusetts, journeying musically with some of the women first accused of the derided practice of obeah. Directed by b current Founder ahdri zhina mandiela, The cast of Obeah Opera includes Calypso Queen supreme Macomere Fifi (aka Eulith Tara Woods), renaissance performance artist Nicole Brooks, vocalist and recording artist Joni NehRita, newcomer Saphire Demitro, and Canadian soul rocktress Saidah Baba Talibah. The production is rounded out with an all female 10-member chorus. The Bathurst Cultural Centre is located at 918 Bathurst Street (north of Bloor St). Reservations: 416.533.1500 or www.bcurrent.ca
Photo: by Michael Chambers. Kanika Ambrose in Obeah Opera.
 arts & lies productions presents Jean Paul Satre's No Exit. The encounter between three strangers and a valet is set in an unassuming, turn of the century parlour room. Though the demeanour of each character begins with a fairly fixed “politesse”, the scenario escalates quickly into a power struggle fueled by sex, manipulated by self-indulgence, and lacerated by vanity, jealousy, and the thinness of each character’s moral standing. And in this moment, we come to realize that these characters are literally, and figuratively, in Hell. Their torments lie at the mercy of the other characters, as each one serves as torturer to the other. This most famous triangle dynamic has brought us the infamous line “Hell is other people”, and resounds with truth in this fresh, primal and choreographed new production. Presented in association with Theatre Passe Muraille, No Exit is Directed by Rosanna Saracino, and featured in the cast are M. John Kennedy, LA Lopes, Danie Friesen and Jessica Salgueiro. No Exit plays from Jan. 24 to Feb. 4 at Theatre Passe Muraille Backspace. 16 Ryerson Ave. Ticket info: www.artsboxoffice.ca By Phone: 416.504.7529.
 Penny Plain is blind, but she hears plenty about the state of things and the fate of mankind. And so she decides to sit in her overstuffed chair, nevermore to venture outside, waiting for the world to end. When her companion dog Geoffrey leaves to live as a man, Penny’s end-of-days vigil is interrupted by survivalists, a serial killer, a cross-dressing banker, talking dogs and mysterious strangers seeking sanctuary. Part gothic thriller, part apocalyptic drawing room comedy, Penny Plain shows the funny and chilling consequences as mother earth cleans house and reclaims her ground. Factory Theatre presents Penny Plain, created and performed by Ronnie Burkett, an "apocalyptic dark comedy, some call Burkett’s magnum opus." It comes to Toronto as part of its Canadian tour, a critical and box office success in western Canada since its premiere in Edmonton. Penny Plain is the 12th production from Ronnie Burkett Theatre of Marionettes, following the international success of Billy Twinkle, 10 Days on Earth, Provenance and the “Memory Dress Trilogy” of Tinka’s New Dress, Street of Blood and Happy. It plays at the Factory Theatre Mainspace from Jan. 20 (opens on Jan 24) to Feb. 26. Tickets: box office at (416) 504-9971 or visit in person during box office hours at 125 Bathurst Street, Toronto, or go online 24/7 at www.factorytheatre.ca
Photo: by John Lambert
 When a star-studded cast abandons a show, leaving only the most incapable of understudies to fill in, combined with the lackluster vision of the worst Writer and Director of all time, a really Bad Play emerges. Canadian Comedy Award winner and member of the playwright’s Guild of Canada, Daniel Stolfi’s new play puts a satirical twist on conventional theatre. After great success with his one man show Cancer Can’t Dance Like This, Stolfi wanted to root himself in an ensemble piece and shed light on the reality of what some theatre productions don’t always mean to bring to the table. The cast includes Shawn Ahmed, Ryan Allen, Jessie Gabe, Trevor Small, and Daniel Stolfi. Stolfi presented the workshop presentation of this production in March 2011 with pivotal(arts) theatre company. A Really Bad Play plays at The Pia Bouman School - "Scotia Bank" Theatre from Tues Jan 31st - Sat Feb 4th. 6 Noble St. Tickets: www.areallybadplay.eventbrite.com
Photo:Top Left - Top right - Jessie Gabe, Shawn Ahmed and Ryan Allen
Bottom Left - Right - Trevor Small and Daniel Stolfi
 COBA, Collective of Black Artists returns to the Fleck Dance Theatre from February 3 to 5 with their exhilarating and dramatic dance production, Les Rythmes de la Forêt, as part of Harbourfront’s NextSteps dance series. Les Rythmes de la Forêt is a suite of dances and rhythms from the Sub-Saharan region accompanied by traditional drums and chants. These dances and rhythms represent social and ritual events including rites of passage, initiations, harvest, and moments of pure joy and celebration. Rythmes brings together traditional works from co-Artistic Directors, Charmaine Headley and BaKari E. Lindsay, alongside guest choreographers Linda Faye Johnson and Sister Robin Hibbert. The traditional dance forms from Guinea, Mali and Senegal were selected to move the audience through an experience of folklore and storytelling to the 'pure dance moment' where, as Lindsay states, "[they] can sit back and enjoy the beauty of the dance, costumes and the exhilarating rhythms". The Fleck DanceTheatre is located at 207 Queens Quay West, Harbourfront. Toronto. For tickets and information: 416 973 4000 or http://www.harbourfrontcentre.com/whatson/today.cfm?id=3275
www.cobainc.com
Photo: by Carl Reid.
 Crow’s Theatre, in association with Porte Parole (Montreal), presents the Toronto premiere of Seeds written by Annabel Soutar, directed by Crow’s Theatre Artistic Director Chris Abraham and starring Eric Peterson. Seeds is arresting documentary theatre chronicling the four-year legal battle between Saskatchewan farmer Percy Schmeiser (Eric Peterson) and biotech giant Monsanto Inc. Based on court trial transcripts and interviews with all the players, including Schmeiser, Monsanto representatives, farmers, academics, lawyers and scientists from across Canada, Seeds goes behind the scenes of the battle for the future of food. In 2004 Annabel Soutar began to research the case of Monsanto Inc. versus Percy Schmeiser. Monsanto accused Schmeiser of growing their genetically patented Round-up Ready canola seeds on his property without paying the licensing fee they require. By taking audiences through a suspenseful labyrinth of legal conflicts regarding patent rights, scientific showdowns about GM food, and property clashes between farmers and the biotechnology industry – Seeds asks an essential question – can you patent a living thing? Or as Percy famously asked, “who owns life?”. The cast includes talented actors from Toronto and Montreal playing over 35 roles including Eric Peterson as Percy Schmeiser, Bruce Dinsmore, Mariah Inger, Alex Ivanovici, Tanja Jacobs, Cary Lawrence and Liisa Repo-Martell. Seeds plays from February 18 (Opens Feb. 22) to March 10, 2012 at the Young Centre for the Performings Arts. 55 Mill Street - The Distillery District.For tickets, call 416.866.8666 or online at www.youngcentre.ca.
Sonnets for an Old Century
Column 13 Actors Company, a feisty independent theatre ensemble, is to remount its successful production of the Canadian premiere of Sonnets for an Old Century by José Rivera at the Palmerston Library Theatre. Column 13 first presented this acclaimed production at the 2011 Toronto International Fringe Festival. This expanded version of the project will run for just 8 performances from February 14th to 25th, 2012. This work by Obie-winning, Academy Award-nominated playwright and screenwriter José Rivera asks the question, “Where do we go when we die?”, and if you were offered the chance to comment on your life, “What would you say about the life you’ve lived?”. In a waiting room for the afterlife, a crowd of ordinary souls are en route to their final resting place and are given one last chance to share with the universe their parting thoughts. Part poetry, part magical realism, this dreamscape play offers profound insights and revelations. Sonnets for an Old Century is a dreamscape filled with poignant, funny, lyrical and haunting monologues from recently deceased individuals. Palmerston Library Theatre, 560 Palmerston Ave Toronto, ON M6G 2P7 Opens February 14th, running February 14th-25th with shows Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays (no Thursday shows) at 8:00pm. Tickets: 416.536.0048 or email info@column13.org.
Summertime in February
 Summertime in February is a special one-time only storytelling event that will let Toronto escape the winter blahs and enjoy a magical night of hot chocolate and stories with Toronto’s hottest storytellers. The show is a result of the wish of host of the monthly Storytelling show “Awkward” Erin Rodgers and brilliant storyteller and Second City Cream of Comedy nominee Marco Bernardi, to give back to the city that has done so much for the storytelling scene. A percentage of the proceeds of the show will go to LGBT Youth Line Ontario, a group that both hosts believe strongly in. The event will feature the hottest talents in Toronto’s Storytelling scene including Alicia Louise Merchant, Sage Tyrtlem, Marilla Wex, Arianne Shaffer,Alex Nursall, Sarah Hennessey and Catherine McCormick. Summertime in February – A Night of Summer-themed Storytelling and Surprises takes place on Saturday February 11th at 8pm at the The Theatre Elusive - 1078 Dovercourt (Dovercourt and Dupont).
 As part of its ‘Countdown to 100 Years’, the Alumnae Theatre presents celebrated Canadian poet Gwendolyn MacEwen’s haunting translation of Euripides’ classic tragedy The Trojan Women. In the aftermath of the Trojan War, abandoned by the gods, the women of Troy try to find meaning in the destruction surrounding them as they wait to be claimed by their Greek masters. In 1978, MacEwen breathed a contemporary spirit into Euripides’ classic text with her bold exploration of feminist ideals. In 2012, director Alexandra Seay (Lincoln Center Theatre Directors Lab member) asks who the women are who live beneath the shadow of men today and strives to give them a voice. Working closely with music director Lily Ling, Alexandra Seay has created a choral landscape inspired by the sounds of the ancient Arab world that evokes the essence of Greek tragedy and highlights the poetry of MacEwen’s text. Featured in the cast are: Molly Thom, Nicole St. Martin, Tara Zacharias Andrew P. MacMaster, Scott Moore, Sochi Fried and Suzette McCanny, along with Andrea Blakey, Stephanie Carpanini, Carys Lewis, Suzette McCanny, Katie Ribout, Anne Shepherd and Susan Q Wilson as The Chorus. The Trojan Women plays from Jan. 20 to Feb. 4 at the Alumnae Theatre, 70 Berkeley St. Tickets: 416-364-4170 (box 1) or e-mail reservations@alumnaetheatre.com. Box Office opens one hour prior to each performance.
Photo by Dahlia Katz: Nicole St. Martin as Andromache flanked by the Chorus
Visiting Mr. Green
 The Harold Green Jewish Theatre presents Visiting Mr. Green by Jeff Baron, starring the legendary Theadore Bikel with Aidan de Salaiz as Ross Gardiner, in this much-lauded play that has had over 300 productions worldwide. Mr. Green, an 86-year-old widower, is almost hit by a car driven by young corporate executive Ross Gardiner. Found guilty of reckless driving, Ross is ordered to spend the next six months making weekly visits to Mr. Green. What starts off as a comedy about two people resenting being forced together develops into a gripping and poignant drama, as family secrets are revealed and old wounds are opened. VISITING MR. GREEN will be directed by Jen Shuber (Angelwalk Theatre’s The Last Five Years) with set and costumes by Cameron Porteous and lighting by Lesley Wilkinson. Founded in 2006, the Harold Green Jewish Theatre Company is Toronto’s only professional theatre company established to celebrate, illuminate and share Jewish culture.Visiting Mr. Green plays from Jan. 28 (Opens Jan. 31) to Feb. 18 at the Jane Mallett Theatre, 27 Front St. East. Tickets: 416.366.7723, toll-free at 1.800.708.6754 or online at www.hgjewishtheatre.com.
War Horse
 The Canadian production of War Horse, the National Theatre of Great Britain’s multi award-winning blockbuster, begins its performances at the Princess of Wales Theatre on Feb. 10 (Opening night Feb. 28) and is scheduled to run until June, 2012. Based on a novel by Michael Morpurgo, and adapted by Nick Stafford in association with Handspring Puppet Company, the story of The War Horse begins in England,1914. As World War I begins, Joey, young Albert’s beloved horse, is sold to the cavalry and shipped to France. He’s soon caught up in enemy fire, and fate takes him on an extraordinary journey, serving on both sides before finding himself alone in No Man’s Land. But Albert cannot forget Joey and, though not old enough to enlist, he embarks on a treacherous mission to find his horse and bring him home. Winner of 6 Tony Awards® 2011, Outer Critic’s Circle Awards 2011, Olivier, Evening Standard and Critics’ Circle awards, this powerfully moving and imaginative drama, filled with stirring music and songs, is a production of phenomenal inventiveness. At its heart are astonishing life-sized puppets created by South Africa’s Handspring Puppet Company, who bring breathing, galloping, charging horses to life on the stage. Directed by Marianne Elliott and Tom Morris, starring are Alex Furber, as Albert, the young man who raises his horse Joey, with Brad Rudy, Tamara Bernier-Evans, Richard McMillan, Steven Yaffee and Patrick Galligan. Tickets: www.mirvish.com. The Princess of Wales Theatre is located at 300 King St. West, Toronto.
 Jim Brochu returns to Toronto with his multi-award-winning show Zero Hour about stage and film legend Zero Mostel. Brochu re-creates the definitive backstory to this amazing performer's appearances in such shows as Fiddler on the Roof, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Mel Brooks' The Producers (film) and many more. Brochu is both hilarious and poignant as he recounts Mostel's big life - as a Broadway legend, a larger than life personality and the target of Hollywood blacklisting. Zero Hour was the most honoured show of 2010, winning the New York Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Solo Performance, the Los Angeles Ovation for Best Play and the Washington, D.C. Helen Hayes Award for Best Actor. Brochu has said, "Zero had a great influence on my life and I was fortunate to get to know him when I was first starting out. He considered himself primarily an artist who took acting jobs to support his painting. I can think of no other person in show business who had more obstacles to overcome than him. He grew up poor. He survived the blacklist. A bus accident almost took his leg off. But he fought and survived, and then went on to win three Tony Awards." Zero Hour written by and starring Jim Brochu and directed by Piper Laurie, plays at the Bathurst St. Theatre from Feb. 8 (Opens Feb. 9) to March 11. 736 Bathurst St. (south of Bloor St. W.) For tickets, call Ticketmaster.ca at 1-855-985-ARTS (2787) or purchase online at www.ZeroHourShow.com.
Zone
Théâtre français de Toronto (TfT) is pleased to present Zone by Marcel Dubé, in co-production with Théâtre la Catapulte (Ottawa). A long-awaited production, the play received the coveted Coup de foudre award at Contact ontarois in January 2011. The actors were treated to a spontaneous standing ovation: the gamble paid off for director Jean Stéphane Roy, who succeeded in moving audiences with Marcel Dubé’s script, where love, youth, and death mix in 1950s Montréal. A cross between Robin Hood and West Side Story, Marcel Dubé’s great script never ceases to surprise with its simple poetry and disconcerting topicality.The play will tour throughout Ontario in the spring of 2012, following a run at Théâtre français de Toronto February 1 to 12, 2012, and at the La Nouvelle Scène in Ottawa on February 25. Zone is directed byJean Stéphane Roy and features Nicolas Desfossés, Dave Jenniss, Maxime Lavoie, Richard J. Léger, Frédérique Thérien and Jean-Simon Traversy. Zone plays from Feb. 1 to 12 (Opens Feb. 3) at the Berkeley St. Theatre Upstairs. 26 Berkeley St. Box Office: (416) 534-6604 or 1-800-819-4981 and www.theatrefrancais.com. Surtitled English performances: Wednesday and Friday, 8 pm, Saturdays, 3:30 pm and Saturday, February 11, 8 pm.
Centaur Theatre
In Absentia
Centaur Theatre is proud to present the world premiere of In Absentia by Morris Panych, recipient of numerous awards including two Governor General’s Literary Awards for Drama.Arguably the most celebrated playwright and director in Canada, Panych’s plays have been produced in over a dozen languages and he has directed more than 90 productions across the country. The Calgary-born theatre artist is also a distinguished actor with an impressive list of theatre, television and film credits. “Premiering In Absentia by Morris Panych has brought a lot of excitement to Centaur Theatre and the Montreal theatre community. I am delighted to direct his new play. It’s a moving piece that examines the influence that our loved ones have in our lives - even in their absence, and the circuitous nature of winter,” says Roy Surette, Centaur Theatre’s Artistic and Executive Director. Surette selected an all-star cast for the play. Susan Glover, Jade Hassouné, Paul Hopkins, and Carlo Mestroni have all performed at Centaur Theatre in the past but this is Jillian Fargey’s Montreal debut. She plays a woman whose husband has been abducted while on a business trip to Columbia. New this Season at Centaur Theatre – Thursday Evening Chat-Up. Join John Zeppetelli, Curator of Chronicles of a Disappearance at DHC/ART on Thursday, February 23, 2012 at 7:00PM in the Seagram Art Gallery. In Absentia Previews: January 31 and February, 1 and opens on Feb. 2. It plays until March 4 at the Centaur Theatre, 453 St-François-Xavier, Montréal. Tickets: 514-288-3161 or centaurtheatre.com
Segal Centre for Performing Arts
Scientific Americans
 The Segal Centre for Performing Arts and BMO Financial Group kicks off the new year with Scientific Americans, the award-winning, darkly comic love story examining the moral dilemmas of love and war by acclaimed Canadian playwright John Mighton. Presented in association with SideMart Theatrical Grocery and directed by Andrew Shaver, Scientific Americans is the story of Jim, a brilliant scientist, and his fiancée Carol, a computer programmer working on artificial intelligence. When Jim gets a job with the U.S. Department of Defense, he learns his research could be used to develop a powerful new weapon. The pressure of a high-level position within the extremely secretive American Military Industrial Complex pits Jim against his moral integrity. In the meantime, his relationship with Carol deteriorates until she finally gives him an ultimatum. Seamlessly weaving the troubles of the heart with those of the conscience, Scientific Americans is a thought-provoking and socially relevant look at the consequences of one’s actions. Trent Pardy stars as Jim alongside Julia Course as Carol, with Graham Cuthbertson, Susan Bain, Michael Blake and Daniel Brochu. Scientific Americans plays from Feb. 5 to 26 on the Segal Centre Mainstage 5170 Chemin de la Côte-Ste-Catherine, Montréal. Metro: Côte-Ste-Catherine/Snowdon. Bus: 129/51. Box Office: 514.739.7944. www.segalcentre.org
Photo: by Andree Lanthier. L to R: Michael Blake, Trent Pardy.
Bain St-Michel
Ars Poetica
 The air conditioning has failed. The creditors are circling like sharks. And the publisher wants to sleep with anything that moves. Welcome to the offices of “Ars Poetica”, a Montréal literary magazine where chaos reigns and disaster is never more than an errant BlackBerry click away. Into this swirl of high culture and low morals steps lawyer Hugh Rose, whose idealistic daughter Naomi works as a summer intern for the magazine. When Hugh discovers the desperate state in which the periodical finds itself, he joins the struggle to keep the enterprise afloat – willingly at first, then with increasing reluctance as he becomes caught up in the intrigues of George the publisher, Julia the editor, and a singular Canada Council officer named Diane. During the course of the play, the temperatures are extreme and so are the stakes; everyone has their secrets. Ars Poetica is a comedy about poetry, wireless communications and the wayward impulses of love. Infinithéâtre is excited to offer yet another original work from Arthur Holden - the world premiere of the comedy, Ars Poetica, playing at Bain St-Michel from January 17-February 12. Directed by Guy Sprung, the talented cast includes favourite Montréal actors Noel Burton, Danielle Desormeaux, Paula Jean Hixson ( and Infinithéâtre ‘regular’, Howard Rosenstein along with up and comer Elana Dunkelman 5300, rue St-Dominique (corner Maguire). Tickets: 514 987-1774 ext. 104 or online at www.infinitheatre.com. Sunday, January 22 is pay-what-you-can
Photo: by Brian Morel. Noel Burton in Arts Poetica
The National Arts Centre English Theatre Company
Creation
In the beginning, God created heaven and earth…then things got a little out of hand! The NAC English Theatre presents a thoughtful and provocative reimagining of the greatest story ever told.It all starts when God sets the universe in motion. The story of Adam & Eve, Cain & Abel, Noah, and Moses follows, as the Old Testament comes alive through the madcap imagination of Peter Anderson – and the magic of last season’s nativity is brought to life once again. Songs by Allen Cole provide the musical complements to the serpent’s temptation, the menagerie of animals boarding the Ark, and all the episodes of this modern “mystery play.” Not quite the King James Bible, but definitely entertaining! A light-hearted musical comedy for ages 8 – 108! Directed by Peter Hinton and starring the NAC English Theatre Company: Rachelle Casseus, Mary-Colin Chisholm, Randi Helmers, Kris Joseph, Greg Kramer, Jamie Mac, Christian Murray, Tamara Podemski, Joey Tremblay, and Beverley Wolfe. Creation plays at the NAC Studio Theatre from Jan. 30 (Opens Feb. 2) to Feb. 20. 53 Elgin St. Tickets: Online on the NAC’s website: www.nac-cna.ca or at the NAC box office or at all Ticketmaster Outlets or by phone at 1-888-991-2787. This production is eligible for the Live Rush program.
OTTAWA
The Gladstone Theatre
Cyrano de Bergerac
 Plosive Producions presented Edmund Rostand's classic love story, Cyrano de Bergerac. Swaggering swordsman, poet with an unmistakable panache, wonderfully witty, Cyrano de Bergerac. But underneath his grandiose flourish and three-musketeer-style heroics lies an aching heart. Though deeply in love with the stunning Roxane, Cyrano thinks himself too ugly to woo her. When he learns that Roxane has fallen in love with the ill-spoken but handsome Christian, Cyrano offers to woo Roxane on Christian’s behalf. Roxane falls in love with Cyrano’s tender words of affection, believing they belong to Christian. Not long after, the two men must answer the call to war. Newly translated and directed by David Whiteley, the show features 12 of Ottawa’s finest actors in this enduring tale of valour, sacrifice and true love. Richard Gélinas plays the title role with the charming Élise Gauthier as his Roxane. Cyrano de Bergerac plays from Feb. 1 (Previews Jan. 31) to Feb. 18 at the Gladstone Theatre, 910 Gladstone Theatre. Box office: www.gladstoneboxoffice@gmail.com or (613) 233-4523.
Photo: by Andrew Alexander.
The Irving Greenberg Theatre Centre
Blood on the Moon
 In the year 1868 in the frontier town of Ottawa, James Patrick Whelan stood accused of the murder of Thomas D'Arcy McGee, a fellow Irish immigrant who had since risen to become one of Canada's most influential politicians. The evidence against Whelan was circumstantial, yet led him to his death before thousands of jeering spectators in what would become Canada's last public hanging. Some 135 years later, Whelan's ghost still haunts the streets of Ottawa, determined to prove his innocence and rewrite the history books. Some 144 years later, Whelan's ghost still haunts the streets of Ottawa, determined to prove his innocence and rewrite the history books. The murder, widely believed to be the result of a Fenian plot, remains a pivotal moment in the rich and varied history of the thousands of Irish immigrants to Canada. Pierre Brault's gripping drama explores this most fascinating episode, laying bare the Irish passion for the homeland, and the sacrifices made in its name. Written and performed by Pierre Brault and directed by John Koensgen, Blood on the Moon is a Sleeping Dog Theatre production in association with the National Arts Centre English Theatre and is presented by The Great Canadian Theatre Company from January 19 to February 5. 1233 Wellington St. W. (at Holland). Ottawa, Ontario. Tickets: 613-236-5196 or visit www.gctc.ca.
Photo: Lydia Pawelak. Pierre Brault as James Patrick Whelan.
LONDON, ONTARIO
Ed's Garage
The Grand Theatre
 The dynamic team of actor Rod Beattie, writer Dan Needles and director Douglas Beattie, best known for their work together on the Wingfield series, return with this playful comedy set in small-town Ontario. Ed is a very popular former farmer, part-time mechanic and is quick to give advice to those with problems. Entertaining complications arise when Cassandra, an urban psychotherapist sets up a private practice next door. “I have gained a reputation as a humorist by roaming the sideroads of rural Ontario for the last fifty years and writing down the witty things that other people say,” Dan Needles, writer of the play, says. “The family farm may be on the verge of extinction, but the farmers themselves haven’t all died. They’re just doing something else. The voices of the old farm community can still be heard in the old meeting places: the village diner, the church hall, or the counter of one of the neighbourhood’s more loosely regulated automotive repair shops.” Ed's Garage stars Rod Beattie as Ed, Tim Campbell, Adrienne Gould and Douglas E. Hughes. It plays at the Grand Theatre from Jan. 17 to Feb. 4. 471 Richmond St. London, ON. Tickets: Call (519) 672-8800 or click www.grandtheatre.com.
Photo: Douglas E. Hughes and Rod Beattie in Ed’s Garage
Click here for the Review of Ed's Garage.
The Sanderson Centre
The Color Purple
 The Sanderson Centre for the Performing Arts presents The Color Purple,The Musical about Love, playing at from February 14 and 15 for two performances. The original Broadway musical opened on December 1, 2005, and was nominated for eleven Tony Awards®, including Best Musical. The Color Purple ran for over two years on Broadway followed by a three year First National Tour. The Color Purple is based on the classic Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Alice Walker and the moving film by Steven Spielberg. It is the unforgettable and inspiring story of a woman named Celie, who finds the strength to triumph over adversity, and discover her unique voice in the world. With a joyous, GRAMMY®-nominated score featuring gospel, jazz, pop and the blues, The Color Purple is about hope and the healing power of love. The Color Purpleis directed by Gary Griffin and features a libretto by Pulitzer Prize-winner Marsha Norman, music and lyrics by Grammy Award®-winning composers/lyricists Brenda Russell, Allee Willis and Stephen Bray, and choreography by Donald Byrd. 88 Dalhousie Street, Brantford. For tickets call the box office at 519-758-8090 / 1-800-265-0710, or on-line at www.sandersoncentre.ca.
Photo: From left to right: Dayna Jarae Dantzler (Celie) and Traci Allen (Nettie).
NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE Presents .....Collaborators
National Theatre Live is an initiative from London’s National Theatre to film live performances of plays in high definition and broadcast via satellite to cinemas all over the world. Find your nearest venue at www.ntlive.com. For Canadian venues please see: http://www.nationaltheatre.org.uk/63070/venues-amp-booking/canada-venues.html
Dec. 1 at 7pm: Collaborators.
 Moscow, 1938. A dangerous place to have a sense of humour; even more so a sense of freedom. Mikhail Bulgakov, living among dissidents, stalked by secret police, has both. And then he’s offered a poisoned chalice: a commission to write a play about Stalin to celebrate his sixtieth birthday.
Production photo: by Johan Perrson. Jaqueline Defferary (Yelena) and Alex Jennings (Mikail Bulgokov) in Collaborators.
Inspired by historical fact, Collaborators embarks on a surreal journey into the fevered imagination of the writer as he loses himself in a macabre and disturbingly funny relationship with the omnipotent subject of his drama.
John Hodge’s blistering new play depicts a lethal game of cat and mouse through which the appalling compromises and humiliations inflicted on any artist by those with power are held up to scrutiny.
Alex Jennings (The Habit of Art) plays Bulgakov and Simon Russell Beale (London Assurance), Stalin.
Performance in HD, Theater
Performance in HD, Theater: Collaborators on Thu, Dec 1 at 7pm
Performance in HD, Theater: The Comedy of Errors on Thu, Mar 1 at 7pm
|
