This is the thirteenth in a series of Q&A Profiles of London area theatre companies and groups. Today, we profile the Palace Theatre Arts Commons.
Q. When was your company founded? By whom and why?
London Community Players (LCP) were founded in 1974. London Youth Theatre Education (LYTE) in 2012. Palace Theatre Arts Commons (PTAC) was formed in 2020, and the London Fringe Festival joined us then.
Q. Is your company best described as professional or not-for-profit community theatre? Or both?
Non-profit community theatre
Q. What venue(s) do you use to stage your productions?
David Long Stage (350-seat auditorium) and Procunier Hall (75-seat backbox theatre)
Q. Does your company have a Mission or Statement of Purpose?
We believe everyone who wants to be entertained, provoked, inspired, or moved by theatre should be afforded the opportunity to do so.
We inspire and nurture individuals through volunteer and educational experiences in theatrical production and management.
We support and promote theatrical youth programs. In conjunction with our partners, we produce, present, and promote high-quality, affordable, entertaining theatrical experiences.
We provide extensive theatre resources for the broader community. We own and manage a heritage venue that is a destination of choice and is available to host a wide variety of cultural and community events.
We create opportunities in the performing arts for everyone in our community.
Q. Does your company have a Board of Directors and paid staff?
Board of 13 members and paid staff of 2 full-time and 2 part-time.
Q. Tell me about your 2025-2026 Season. Does it have any underlying theme?
London Community Players – Mainstage (David Long Stage)
The Front Page: SCOOPED September 25 – October 5, 2025
The Rocky Horror Show October 23- November 1, 2025 Co-production with InFuse Productions
Deathtrap November 27 – December 7, 2025
Urinetown: The Musical February 19 – March 1, 2026
Mamma Mia! May 28-June 7, 2026
London Community Players – Procunier Hall (Black Box)
Three Tall Women October 16 – 26, 2025
Closer February 5-15, 2026
Harris Cashes Out March 5-15, 2026
The Family Creetin with Banished by the King Productions April 16-25, 2026
London Youth Theatre Education (LYTE)
Junior Musicals (ages 8–13)
Elf Jr. – December 19–21, 2025
Junie B. the Musical Jr. – January 2026
Senior Musicals (ages 14–18)
Mean Girls High School Version – March 2026
Anne of Green Gables: The Musical – March 2026
Q. Do you have any thoughts about the London area theatre community and your part in it?
No response was given.
For more information about the Palace Theatre Arts Commons and to purchase tickets, visit https://palacetheatre.ca/
This is the twelfth in a series of Q&A Profiles of London area theatre companies and groups. Today, we profile Musical Theatre Productions.
Q. When was your company founded? By whom and why?
Musical Theatre Productions (MTP) was founded in 1988, with the mounting of our very first musical – ‘Evita’. The founding members were Kevin Bice, Suzan Bingemann, Noreen DeShane, Eleanor Ender, Art Fidler, Vicky Fuss, John Gerry, John Hart, James Hill, Roger Macaulay, Ann MacMillan, Deborah Mitchell, Stephen Mitchell, and Alec Richmond.
Q. Is your company best described as professional or not-for-profit community theatre? Or both?
Musical Theatre Productions is a registered not-for-profit community theatre company. With nothing to do regarding the sale of our productions or caliber of talent on our stages, we are an amateur theatre company. This means that folks on-stage, backstage, or even on the creative side, are all passionate volunteers dedicated to bringing musicals to life in London.
We do offer a small honorarium for certain creative positions as well as musicians, which is very different from what an artist would make working for a professional theatre company.
Q. What venue(s) do you use to stage your productions?
MTP does not have a dedicated performance space and has been lucky enough to partner and rent from many different venues across the city in our 30+ years of operation. Currently, we are very lucky to have an ongoing relationship with the Grand Theatre and are renting their Auburn Stage for all of the productions in our upcoming season. This is a wonderful space that acts as a blank canvas that our directors and designers adore!
(Pictured: Jacob Wiley, Publicity Director/Board of Directors, Musical Theatre Productions)
Q. Does your company have a Mission or Statement of Purpose?
Our mission is simple, to consistently produce and advocate for high-quality community musical theatre for London, Ontario, Canada and the surrounding area.
Q. Does your company have a Board of Directors and paid staff?
MTP has an operating board of currently twelve members (with a vacant seat). This dedicated group of community members work tirelessly to keep the registered charity afloat and ensure that Musical Theatre Productions is recognized for not only the theatre we create, but the experience of our volunteers and ticket holders. We are constantly working to create new policies and procedures, improving our EDI and Community Engagement initiatives – all to ensure that everyone regardless of identity, ethnicity or experience feels welcome, safe, respected, and embraced by MTP.
Q. Tell me about your 2025-2026 Season. Does it have any underlying theme?
Everyone at MTP is so excited for our 2025/ 26 BRIGHT & BEAUTIFUL SEASON. This season we invite you to join us in the bright and beautiful world of showbiz! We can’t wait to explore the golden age glamour, the rush of a live studio, and the surprise of the season that is certain to excite any fan of film or stage. We have something for everyone in the season ahead!
MTP’s upcoming season wouldn’t be possible if it weren’t for our Season Sponsors: The London Arts Council, Old Oak, Ad Home Creative and The London Community Foundation. We are also immensely thankful to this season’s Printing Partner,: Andrus Direct.
Q. What shows will you be staging this season? Tell me a little bit about each.
This December, join our 55+ branch, Silver Spotlight, for a taste of golden-age glamour with SST’s SHOWTUNE. Prepare yourself for a slice of musical theatre heaven. All Jerry Herman, all the time. Showtune delivers everything that its title promises… and then some! No lyric is left unsung in this top-notch retrospective of Herman’s phenomenal career in songwriting, presented by the Silver Spotlight Theatre wing of Musical Theatre Productions. Familiar tunes from such illustrious titles as Hello Dolly!, Mame, and La Cage Aux Folles will be stuck in your head long after this charming show ends. A performer-driven piece that has its heart in Herman’s words, it is the perfect celebration for the recipient of the 2009 Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre.
Are we live? Roll camera this February on a live studio set with MTP’s BRIGHT & BOLD. Take a seat in our studio audience to witness the magic (and mishaps) of a live television variety show with BRIGHT AND BOLD – A Golden Age Winter Special. Our performers will enchant you on stage while revealing some of the behind-the-scenes antics that keep this show alive! Come see us recreate the golden age of television with star-studded performers that represent the beauty and diversity of our communities today. We’re not just recreating history, we’re rewriting it, in technicolour!
Finally, we have our unannounced surprise of the season! Due to our license agreement, we aren’t able to announce this popular title, fans of film and stage adore, but we are certain that it will leave Londoners feeling like an ALL STAR! Stay tuned for the BIG reveal January 10, 2026!
Q. Do you have any thoughts about the London area theatre community and your place in it?
The London area is so lucky to have such a thriving local theatre scene. With so many wonderful companies and so much talent, there is always something to see and talk about. With a dedication to only producing musicals, and 30 plus years of experience, we have a refined and distilled skill to bringing musicals to the stage in a unique way that only MTP can. From our shows to our gatherings and events, everything we do is infused with a unique MTP flair that we are proud to bring to the community.
To learn more about Musical Theatre Productions and the 2025-2026 Season, visit https://www.mtplondon.ca/
The family of Nick Panaseiko Sr., widely known as PROMOMAN and celebrated as one of Canada’s most passionate concert promoters, invites friends, family, and fans to a Celebration of Life on Sunday, September 28th at Eastside Bar & Grill.
This special afternoon will honour Nick’s remarkable legacy in music and entertainment, reflect on the connections he created, and celebrate the countless lives he touched. Nick’s career and charisma made him a true icon — and whether you knew him personally or through his stories, you were never more than a few degrees away from his influence.
Event Details:
Location: Eastside Bar & Grill
Date & Time: Sunday, September 28th, 11:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Schedule:
11:30 AM – 1:00 PM: Social & Snacks
1:00 PM: Eulogy and Speeches
Live Music to Follow (Running on Rock N’ Roll Time) featuring Shelly Rastin and Laura Gagnon Music
(Pictured: Shelley Rastin. Rock Solid Images)
(Pictured: Laura Gagnon)
Nick Panaseiko Sr. leaves behind a legacy of passion, music, and community spirit that will continue to inspire for generations. This event will bring together all those who felt the power of his connection — the true “6 Degrees of Nick.”
“My dad wasn’t just a promoter, he was a storyteller, a connector, and a friend to so many,” said his son, Jay Panaseiko. “This celebration is not just about remembering his life, but about honouring the joy, laughter, and music he shared with all of us.”
During his career in the music business, Nick Panaseiko rubbed shoulders with the titans of the music industry. Here are just some of them.
(Nick with Canadian guitar great, Domenic Troiano)
(Pictured: Nick with The Who’s drummer, Keith Moon)
(Nick with Canadian rock legend, Ronnie Hawkins)
(Pictured: Nick with members of Kiss. Nick was instrumental in promoting the band.)
(Nick with Alice Cooper)
(Nick with the members of Canadian rock band Rush)
(Nick with Liberace)
Celebration of Life on Sunday, September 28th at Eastside Bar & Grill
This is the eleventh in a series of Q&A Profiles with London area theatre companies and groups. Today, we interview Chase R. Montgomery, founder of Mavis Productions.
Q. When was your company founded? By whom and why?
Mavis Productions got its start in 2019, but it really came into being in November of 2022 as the pandemic lockdown came to an end. It was founded because I wanted to bring more performing opportunities to South Western Ontario communities in the form of musicals and plays of all kinds, both famous/family and infamous/cult.
Q. Is your company best described as professional or not-for-profit community theatre? Or both?
Mavis Productions is best described as a touring community theatre company that visits multiple communities with our productions. It is our hope to continue to make shows bigger and bigger so that one day, grand-scale productions can be accessible to everyone during these hard financial times.
Q. What venue(s) do you use to stage your productions?
As a touring company, Mavis has several venues we currently call home.
London: The Wolf Performance Hall, Joanne and Peter Kenny Theatre, and Paul Davenport Theatre.
Fergus: The Fergus Grand Theatre.
Chatham: The Kiwanis Theatre.
St. Thomas: The Princess Playhouse.
Alymer: Old Town Hall Theatre.
Brantford: The Sanderson Centre of Performing Arts.
Q. Does your company have a Mission or Statement of Purpose?
To bring new and unique entertainment, created by our communities for our communities.
Q. Does your company have a Board of Directors and paid Staff?
Mavis is comprised entirely of volunteers from many of our South Western Ontario and Michigan, USA communities
Q. Tell me about your 2025-2026 Season. Does it have any underlying theme?
Our 2026 Spring Season focuses on the struggles of Misfits.
Those of us, young and old alike, who just don’t fit in. Whether it’s because they were born different or thrown into circumstances that cause them to feel alone and struggle through this world.
However, through sheer determination and self-reliance (or the help of newly found friends who are also misfits), they find their place in life and are ready to take on the rest of the world and the monsters that brought them to ruin.
We feel this resonates with Mavis and our communities, as it is a long-standing theme of our past seasons, and we are so excited to be bringing it forward again with these three musicals:
The Lightning Thief: A Percy Jackson Musical (London and Fergus)
Evil Dead the Musical (London)
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Fergus and Brantford)
Q. What show(s) will you be staging this fall (September to December)? Tell me a little bit about each.
London Oct 9-18:
Richard O’Brien’s The Rocky Horror Show
This cult classic has become not only a long-standing tradition for Mavis but also one of London’s favorite annual events. As this will be the 4th year Mavis has brought this show to life for our London community, AND it is the 50-year celebration of the film, we cannot express the excitement and effort being put into it.
The show tells the story of young lovers Brad Majors and Janet Weiss, who find themselves in the company of a strange doctor (whose scientific endeavours are as strange to them as the clothes he wears), his servants, and a party full of unique characters. To say that it is a tale of Frankenstein with flair would be an understatement!
With so much history and so much love from the world, especially for the iconic songs like Time Warp and Sweet Transvestite, Rocky Horror will delight any and all with its pleasurable ways.
Fergus
November 13-16
Tom Stoppard’s The Real Inspector Hound
Moon and Birdboot, two drama critics, arrive to watch the performance of a new detective play, a parody of the conventional stage thriller. However, the private lives of the critics become inextricably mixed with those of the play’s characters until Moon is shot dead and the real Inspector Hound proves to be…?
Brantford
December 27 and 28
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Sunset Boulevard the Musical
In her mansion on Sunset Boulevard, faded silent-screen goddess Norma Desmond lives in a fantasy world. Impoverished screenwriter Joe Gillis, on the run from debt collectors, stumbles into her reclusive domain.
Persuaded to work on Norma’s “masterpiece,” a film script that she believes will put her back in front of the cameras, Joe is seduced by her and her luxurious lifestyle. Joe becomes entrapped in a claustrophobic existence until his love for another woman leads him to try to break free with dramatic consequences.
Q. Do you have any thoughts about the London area theatre community and your part in it?
The London community has been among the greatest communities to create an experience that we have ever had. For four years, they have welcomed our unique artistic views with open arms, coming by the thousands to our adult/cult shows and our family shows. London is truly a city that embraces all forms of expression.
For our part, Mavis Productions will continue to push the envelope to create bigger and better shows for all our communities from all walks of life. It is a privilege to produce these shows, and we will continue to honor it.
“I would rather have 30 minutes of wonderful than a lifetime of nothing special.” – Shelby Eatenton-Latcherie, in Robert Harling’s Steel Magnolias
The Elgin Theatre Guild’s production of Steel Magnolias in St. Thomas delivers two and a half hours of something truly special.
Set in Truvy Jones’ beauty salon in small-town Louisiana during the 1980s—where secrets, gossip, and the occasional sweet treats are shared—Steel Magnolias is a story of unwavering bonds and enduring friendship. The set, though simple, radiates authenticity and rustic charm, immersing the audience so completely that it feels as though we are peering through the salon’s mirror where its patrons peer back at us.
A great theatre experience should educate, entertain, and inspire, guiding the audience through a journey of emotions. This production does exactly that—moving effortlessly from heartwarming laughter among friends to moments of fear, loss, and grief. It is performed with such conviction that one almost forgets they are sitting in a small theatre in downtown St. Thomas.
(Steel Magnolias Set. Photo Credit: Ross Davidson)
A Director’s Vision, A Cast’s Strength
Much credit goes to director Cindi Armer Almeida, who assembled a strong ensemble capable of carrying the weight of such a beloved play turned feature film. Each woman brings her own distinctive energy and colourful take on the characters to the role.
Susan Williams perfectly embodies Clairee Belcher, the quintessential Southern lady of society.
Sile Ferguson is endearing as the shy and slightly insecure newcomer, Annelle Dupuy-DeSoto.
Kim Braine-Ott delights as the sharp-tongued yet lovable Ouiser Boudreaux—a role performed with just the right mix of bite and heart.
Their performances provide a rich foundation that ensures the story never falters.
The three leads, however, are the true standouts of this production.
Sarah Abbot-Taylor brings Truvy to life with warmth, wit, and charm. Her facial expressions, movements, and just that absolute feeling of authenticity transport us straight to the bayou.
Makayla Ashenden’s Shelby is magnetic—delicate yet strong, embodying the duality of steel and magnolia with such a beauty and grace, you are completely drawn into her character.
Sam Sabathy gives a breathtaking performance as M’Lynn. Her emotional journey ebbs, flows, and then crescendos into a devastating second act that leaves the audience in tears. It was, quite simply, phenomenal. A word I don’t use lightly.
(Pictured: Cast and Crew of Steel Magnolias. Photo Credit: Ross Davidson)
Rarely have I seen a community theatre performance stir such a genuine emotional reaction from an audience. The believability of these performances and cohesiveness of the cast is what makes it a bona fide success.
In her Director’s Notes, Almeida writes, “It’s the perfect play to see right now given the climate of today’s headlines.” Indeed, the production resonates as a timely reminder of the healing power of laughter, love, and friendship. The need for connection is universal, and this play underscores it with compassion and truth.
Prepare to be moved. Bring your friends, family, and loved ones to Truvy’s beauty parlour, and allow yourself to be immersed in the lives of these six remarkable women. You’ll leave with a renewed appreciation for the strength of friendship and the beauty of human connection.
Bravo to the cast, crew, and director. May this production enjoy an excellent run.
If you go:
ELGIN THEATRE GUILD – Home Where – Princess Avenue Playhouse, 40 Princess Avenue, St Thomas Tickets: $25 plus fees When – September 18th – 28th, 2025
This is the ninth in a series of Q&A Profiles with London area theatre companies and groups. Today, we profile the London Performing Arts Academy (LPAA).
Q. When was your company founded? By whom and why?
Renée and Courtney Murray founded the company in December 2019, with one high school cast of 14 students.
We wanted to provide a professional level of training for young people and make it affordable and accessible to people who may not otherwise have been able to be involved. We make sure our students feel included in the process and also learn what it is like to be part of a professional theatre production.
(Pictured: Courtney Murray)
Q. Is your company best described as professional or not-for-profit community theatre? Or both?
Not-for-profit, Community Theatre and Youth Performing Arts training in dance, vocals, and acting
Q. What venue(s) do you use to stage your productions?
We used to use The Wolf Performance Hall, but we just built our own 130-seat venue, so they will be at 3-80 Bessemer Road now, in the LPAA Family Theatre
Q. Does your company have a Mission or Statement of Purpose?
We want everyone to have the opportunity to experience the world of Musical theatre and fine arts. We strive to create and maintain an inviting, inclusive community where our students have growth and performance opportunities while enjoying their love of theatre.
Q. Does your company have a Board of Directors and paid Staff?
Yes
Q. Tell me about your 2025-2026 Season. Does it have any underlying theme?
This is a new year, a new direction for us. We have just built a 130-seat Performance venue in our new location. We are adding more programs and look forward to welcoming new families. We are adding programs as young as “mom and tot” and adding homeschool day programs to accommodate the needs of more families in the community.
Q. What show(s) will you be staging this fall (September to December)? Could you tell me a little bit about each?
Our first production is in December, presented by our Senior Company. They will be performing Stephen Sondheim’s Into the Woods. We have two very talented casts of High School Students. The show will run for ten days.
In January, we will be presenting Mary Poppins, and then in February, we will be presenting our Community Theatre Production of The Little Mermaid. Up next in May-June, we have Legally Blonde presented by our Seniors, Beetlejuice presented by our Juniors, and Alice in Wonderland presented by our Minis.
Q. Do you have any thoughts about the London area theatre community and your part in it?
London is a city rich in talented people with a passion for the arts. We love watching theatre here, and we love being able to produce theatre here.
LPAA has been a proud supporter and sponsor of many community theatre and youth programs. The city has a place for all of us, offering various programs, training, and classes to both our students and patrons, and we love being part of that beautiful community.
This is the seventh in a series of Q&A Profiles of London area theatre companies and groups. Today, we profile the Ingersoll Theatre of the Performing Arts (ITOPA).
Q. When was your company founded? By whom and why?
In 1976, a group of people began meeting to explore the possibility of setting up a community theatre. A set of by-laws was drawn up, a name chosen, a logo designed, and ITOPA was incorporated under the Charitable Organizations Act.
Q. Is your company best described as professional or not-for-profit community theatre? Or both?
ITOPA is a volunteer, non-professional community theatre company that provides live entertainment in the form of music, plays, and other events.
Q. What venue(s) do you use to stage your productions?
In the fall of 1980, ITOPA moved to its present location, 88 Thames Street South, Ingersoll, ON.
Q. Does your company have a Mission or Statement of Purpose?
ITOPA is a theatre of and for our community. We are committed to connecting, inspiring, and enriching everyone who we welcome into our safe space. ITOPA believes that theatre is an essential component of life and that every aspect should be available to all. Through contact, involvement, and exposure to the arts, we utilize the power of the theatre environment to foster inclusion, expression, and positivity for our entire community.
Q. Does your company have a Board of Directors and paid staff?
ITOPA is run by a volunteer board of directors who are selected from the membership.
Q. Tell me about your 2025-2026 Season. Does it have any underlying theme?
The only theme for the 2025-2026 season is FUN!
Q. What show(s) will you be staging this fall (September to December)? Tell me a little bit about each.
7-10 Split
By Michael G Wilmot
October 10, 11, 12*, 16, 17, 18*, 19*
Showtime: 7:30pm
*indicates Matinee performance 2:00pm
Since his aspirations to be a pro bowler went off the rails, Earl has tried one get rich quick scheme after another.
This time, things are different when a rich Count from the Internet has offered him money to help save his fortune.
Five classmates come together for their 30th high-school reunion.
Some see it as a welcome trip home, while others see it as an obligation, and a few never even left.
But as the night wears on, the one-time classmates start to reconnect and reminisce.
And the more alcohol that’s consumed, the closer the friends come to confronting their darkest secrets.
The Drowsy Chaperone
Music and Lyrics By Lisa Lambert and Greg Morrison Book by Bob Martin and Don McKellar
May 29, 30, 31* June 4, 5, 6*, 7* Showtime: 7:30pm *indicates Matinee performance 2:00pm
With the house lights down, a man in a chair appears on stage and puts on his favorite record: the cast recording of a 1928 musical.
The recording comes to life, and The Drowsy Chaperone begins as the man in the chair looks on.
Mix in two lovers on the eve of their wedding, a bumbling best man, a desperate theatre producer, a not-so-bright hostess, two gangsters posing as pastry chefs, a misguided Don Juan, and an intoxicated chaperone, and you have the ingredients for an evening of madcap delight.
Winner of five Tony Awards, including Best Book and Best Original Score, The Drowsy Chaperone is a loving send-up of the Golden Age musical, featuring one show-stopping song and dance number after another.
alvegoroot theatre presents the last tempation of cinema, sept. 20, at the hyland cinema.
Part of Doors Open London
Before the multiplexes, single-screen cinemas reigned supreme in London, Ontario. An accidental live play takes place when a documentary about the Hyland Cinema and London’s other legendary movie houses isn’t finished rendering in time for the screening. Two socially anxious filmmakers endeavour to recreate their documentary and define the golden age of movie-going.
There will also be live music from noon till 1:00 PM as Paul Stevenson and Stephen Holowitz play a Jazz set of movie themes.
Written by Kydra Ryan and Adam Corrigan Holowitz Directed by Adam Corrigan Holowitz Performed by Luis Marin and Kydra Ryan
Live Performance: Saturday, September 20 at 11:30 AM Saturday, September 20 at 1:00 PM Saturday, September 20 at 2:30 PM
Running Time: 30 Minutes
Location: Hyland Cinema, 240 Wharncliffe Road S Free Admission
doors open 2025: swing dance party, sept. 20.
Explore local history through dance! Learn basic moves in Lindy Hop and West Coast Swing, then join the dance party featuring live music by The Bettys.
September 20, 2025, 10am-2pm Queens Park (outside Western Fair Market) 925 Dundas St FREE
10am Demo & Dance History 10:30am Lindy Hop Workshop 11am Dance Party w The Bettys
12pm Demo & Dance History 12:30pm West Coast Swing Workshop 1pm Dance Party w The Bettys
Step back in time and learn some local history through the lens of Swing Dance. Join the Centre of Movement Arts and local dance artists at the Western Fair Market for the next chapter in the Audrey (Peck) Varty legacy event series.
Fun for the whole family! Watch an engaging demo showing how Lindy Hop and West Coast Swing have evolved from social dances of the 1920s and 30s, and join in a workshop to learn the basic steps. Then you can try out your new moves at a dance party with live music!
In the 1930s, Audrey Peck and her friends spent many evenings dancing the night away to the sounds of Big Bands. It was on such a night that she was swept off her feet by the dancing skills of her future husband.
It’s the first week of Music Bingo at The Morrissey House!
Join us Tuesday, Sept. 17th at 7:30 PM for our launch night, hosted by our friends at Forked River Brewing.
We’re kicking things off with an ’80s music edition — neon, big hair, and all your favorite throwback hits.
jazz nights at the peppermoon restaurant, sept. 18 & 25.
Upcoming Jazz Nights:
Uptown Affair ft. Tanya Lovell & John Brocksom
September 18, 2025 |
6 PM – 9 PM
Chris Alcantara & Don DiCarlo
September 25, 2025
Free Entry
Reservations Recommended
1100 Commissioners Rd E, London, Ontario
Come enjoy live jazz music in London, Ontario, delicious food, and the best vibes in partnership with the London Jazz Association. Perfect for music lovers, foodies, and anyone looking for a cozy night out.
this week at the library, sept. 15-20.
doors open london, sept. 20 & 21.
Get ready to step into the heart of London like never before! From hidden gems to iconic landmarks, Doors Open London invites you to explore 40+ incredible sites across the city — all for FREE! There’s something for everyone to discover.
Saturday, September 20 & Sunday, September 21, 2025
the Jeffery concerts presents Penderecki String Quartet with Arthur Rowe, piano, sept. 19, at the wolf performance hall.
No stranger to London audiences, the ever-popular Penderecki String Quartet will be opening the 2025-26 season. This celebrated ensemble, known for its technical brilliance and emotional depth, will join forces with acclaimed pianist Arthur Rowe in Shostakovich’s Piano Quintet in G minor. Don’t miss this occasion to witness musical excellence at its finest. Repertoire:
W. Mozart: String Quartet No. 20 in D major, K.499 L. Janáček: String Quartet No. 1 “Kreutzer Sonata” Intermission D. Shostakovich: Piano Quintet in G Minor, op. 57
Steel Magnolias – Sept 18-28, 2025 By Robert Harling The action is set in Truvy’s beauty salon in Chinquapin, Louisiana, where all the ladies who are “anybody” come to have their hair done. Helped by her eager new assistant, Annelle (who is not sure whether or not she is still married), the outspoken, wise-cracking Truvy dispenses shampoos and free advice to the town’s rich curmudgeon, Ouiser, (“I’m not crazy, I’ve just been in a bad mood for forty years”); an eccentric millionaire, Miss Clairee, who has a raging sweet tooth; and the local social leader, M’Lynn, whose daughter, Shelby (the prettiest girl in town), is about to marry a “good ole boy.” Filled with hilarious repartee and not a few acerbic but humorously revealing verbal collisions, the play moves toward tragedy when, in the second act, the spunky Shelby (who is a diabetic) risks pregnancy and forfeits her life. The sudden realization of their mortality affects the others, but also draws on the underlying strength—and love—which give the play, and its characters, the special quality to make them truly touching, funny, and marvelously amiable company in good times and bad.
2025 Grand Theatre High School Project presents Disney’s Newsies, sept. 17-27.
More than sixty high school students from London and area – representing seventeen different schools – make up the student company of Disney’s Newsies. Thirty-eight students make up the on-stage cast, two student musicians will be performing with the live orchestra, and twenty-one student artists are working behind the scenes in production roles, including wardrobe, props, lighting, sound, stage management, carpentry, scenic art, and marketing/photography.
Newsies invites audiences to step into turn-of-the-century New York City, a time of skyscrapers and money makers. This year’s Grand Theatre High School Project production tells the story of charismatic Jack Kelly and his gritty band of newsies, united in the fight against newspaper giants. When greedy publishers decide to raise distribution prices at the newsies’ expense, it’s up to Jack and his pals to be stronger together and fight for what’s right.
Single tickets range from $26-$55 and are available at grandtheatre.com, by phone at 519.672.8800, or at the Box Office, 471 Richmond Street.
Port Stanley Festival Theatre Presents Simon Joynes Playwrights’ Festival 2025: A Celebration of Canadian Stories, sept. 18-20.
The Festival is free, but PSFT does accept donations, which help the theatre to continue to support Canadian Playwrights and Canadian stories. We are a nation overflowing with talent, and providing an opportunity to showcase such talent is a strong part of PSFT’s mandate.
Please reserve your seats by clicking on the show below, or call the box office at 519-782-4353.
Thursday, September 18, at 7:30pm, Deadly Memories by Steven Gallagher.
Friday, September 19, at 7:30pm, Hart’s Crossing by Tracey Hoyt.
Saturday, September 20, at 7:30pm Ship To Shore by Norm Foster.
Ticket purchases are final sale. No refunds will be issued.
Once your ticket is purchased, the purchaser’s name will be on the list at the door, and you will be required to provide it to gain entry. No physical tickets are necessary. You will be asked to show ID at the door.
Food, beverages, and Salthaven merch will be available for purchase at the event, along with a silent auction to help support wildlife.
All profits from this event will go to Salthaven!
Salthaven’s Founder and Director, Brian Salt, is the heartbeat of the band as their drummer and vocalist! The other members include the incredibly talented Doug Varty on lead vocals and guitar, and the electrifying Ted Floyd on vocals and bass. Together, they lit up the ’80s with a string of chart-topping hits. Not only that, but they shared the stage with legends like John Mellencamp, Frankie Valli, and the Beach Boys. Special guests for the evening include Jim Chapman & The ’60s All-Star Band.
friends of fiddler’s green, sept. 21, chaucer’s pub.
This is our traditional season opening concert is with Friends of Fiddler’s Green. This is our 32nd season at Chaucer’s Pub, and we have a fantastic lineup of concerts planned for you. Visit www.folk.on.ca
The “Friends” boast six versatile musicians, five fine singers, three songwriters, brilliant joke tellers, the occasional fiery dragon, one Order of Canada, one Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal, and one of the longest track records in Canadian Folk Music. The Friends were recipients of the 2003 Estelle Klein Award, given by the Ontario Council of Folk Festivals (FMO) for service to folk music in Ontario. The current band members are Ian Bell, Alistair Brown, Grit Laskin, Jeff McClintock, Ian Robb, and James Stephens.
This totally uncategorizable collection of Friends has been together, with a few personnel changes, since their inauguration at Toronto’s Fiddler’s Green coffeehouse in 1971. Nobody, not even the Friends themselves, can predict what might happen during one of their concerts, but it always includes humour, powerful vocal harmony, great musicianship, social commentary, and an irresistible urge to tap your feet or sing along.
122 Carling Street, London, Ontario.
carly Thomas, sept. 20, palasad socialbowl.
Special 3-set showcase! Licensed – All Ages – Free.
learn the time warp dance night, sept. 21, poacher’s arms.
Don’t dream it, dance it Join us at Poachers Arms for a Pub night of absolute pleasure as we teach you the Time Warp step by step.
Instruction by our incredibly talented Director extraordinaire herself, Melanie Stewart. This is your chance to learn the jumps to the left, AND the steps to the right- So you are PREPARED to dance the time warp AGAIN October 23rd-November 2nd @ The Palace Theatre! This is OUR time warp- unique to our show’s choreography.
Come for a dance class! Come to have fun! Come to watch! Dress up in your best Transylvanian look!
PWYC cash @ door with 50/50 proceeds to our production, and QI. Contact Poacher’s directly by phone for access to the elevator. (519) 432-7888.
laura gagnon, sept. 19, the windjammer inn.
Call ahead to reserve your seat! $30 includes music by Laura Gagnon and Food by Chef Kim! Last time, the food never stopped coming!!! Melt in your mouth goodness YUM!! Come hang with the locals and get to know your neighbour!
forest city film festival public launch, sept. 18, museum london.
The wait is over! The 2025 Forest City Film Festival Public Launch is happening this Thursday (Sept 18) at Museum London, and it’s FREE!
Join us as we unveil the full lineup of films, celebrate local creators, and start the countdown to our 10th anniversary. This is the start of an epic festival season, and we want YOU there!
This Thursday | 5PM – 7:30PM
@museumlondon | 421 Ridout St N
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this milestone moment. Come for the films, stay for the excitement, and celebrate a decade of storytelling with us!
green day tribute, sept. 20, roxbury pub & grill.
GREEN DAY TRIBUTE SAT, SEPT 20. St Jimmy’s Army and their tribute to the legendary pop-punk band, Green Day! Also playing best of the 90s.
Back by popular demand, the return of Motown Gold Live. This epic multimedia extravaganza will leave you wanting more. A musical celebration of the legendary record label. Saturday, September 20. Aeolian Hall. London ON.
For over twenty-five years, the Grand Theatre High School Project has offered an exceptional opportunity for students to receive education and training in the working environment of a professional theatre, at no cost to the participants.
Each year, high school students from the London area are mentored by professional artists and coaches in all departments (performance, stage management, props, wardrobe, scenic art, carpentry, orchestra, sound, lighting, stage, and marketing), culminating in a production staged on the Grand Theatre..
The 2025 Grand Theatre High School Project, Disney’s Newsies, plays on the 839-seat Spriet Stage from September 17 to 27. The power of youth will be on full display with this vibrant musical spectacular, famed for its imaginative and iconic dance sequences, inspired by a true story, and featuring a Tony Award-winning score that includes songs such as “Carrying the Banner,” “Seize the Day,” and “King of New York”.
More than sixty high school students from London and area – representing seventeen different schools – make up the student company of Disney’s Newsies. Thirty-eight students make up the on-stage cast, two student musicians will be performing with the live orchestra, and twenty-one student artists are working behind the scenes in production roles, including wardrobe, props, lighting, sound, stage management, carpentry, scenic art, and marketing/photography.
Newsies invites audiences to step into turn-of-the-century New York City, a time of skyscrapers and money makers. This year’s Grand Theatre High School Project production tells the story of charismatic Jack Kelly and his gritty band of newsies, united in the fight against newspaper giants.When greedy publishers decide to raise distribution prices at the newsies’ expense, it’s up to Jack and his pals to be stronger together and fight for what’s right.
(Pictured: Keirah Buckley & Trent Robichaud. Costume Design by Lisa Wright. Photo: Mai Tilson)
One of the most influential powers in Canadian musical theatre, Ray Hogg (Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812; A Strange Loop; Musical Stage Co.),has been in residency at the Grand Theatre to lead this year’s High School Project production and direct the newest cohort of student artists through the Grand’s one-of-a-kind theatrical incubator. In step with Hogg is an all-star creative team led by Music Director Matthew Atkins (London Gospel Collective), Choreographer Krista Leis (Stratford, Broadway), Set Design Consultant Joshua Quinlan (Stratford, Crow’s, Mirvish), Costume Designer Lisa Wright, Lighting Designer Echo Zhou 周芷會, Sound Designer Emily Porter, Fight Director Mike Dufays, Disability Consultant Kristi Hansen,and Stage Manager Melissa Cameron.
(Pictured: Rachel Peake, Artistic Director, The Grand Theatre)
“Year after year, the Grand Theatre High School project shows us just how much young people can do when given the space to grow into their potential. Whether onstage or behind-the-scenes, this huge group of young people has been challenged to the extreme on this show,” shares Rachel Peake, Grand Theatre Artistic Director. “It calls on them to execute all elements of musical theatre to the highest level. This exceptional creative team has set the bar high, and day after day, those of us working with these students are deeply impacted by how they continually exceed our expectations.”
Disney’s Newsies
Music by Alan Menken Lyrics by Jack Feldman Book by Harvey Fierstein Based on the Disney Film written by Bob Tzudiker and Noni White Originally produced on Broadway by Disney Theatrical Productions Directed by Ray Hogg
September 17 to 27 on the Spriet Stage at the Grand Theatre
Single tickets range from $26-$55 and are available at grandtheatre.com, by phone at 519.672.8800, or at the Box Office, 471 Richmond Street.
This is the sixth in a series of Q&A Interviews with representatives of London area theatre companies and groups. Today, we interview Lisa Cardinal, co-founder of Infuse Productions.
Q. When was your company founded? By whom and why?
Infuse Productions was founded in 2025 by Lisa Cardinal and Mel Stewart. We knew for years that we wanted to put on a show together and had a different show planned for the fall of 2025. When we realized that 2025 was the 50th anniversary of The Rocky Horror Show – the show that we met on ten years earlier – we knew it was the right one to kick off Infuse Productions with.
Q. Is your company best described as professional or not-for-profit community theatre?
We are a community theatre who are committed to profit-sharing with our dedicated casts and crews.
(Pictured: Infuse Productions co-founders, Mel Stewart and Lisa Cardinal)
Q. What venue(s) do you use to stage your productions?
Our first production, a co-production with London Community Players (LCP), will take place at the Palace Theatre. The Palace and LCP are the ideal venues for our rendition of Rocky Horror, and in the future, we are open to working at other venues based on the show’s needs.
Q. Does your company have a Mission or Statement of Purpose?
To infuse is to introduce one thing to another, to fill it with a certain quality, and results in a change for the better. This is core to our values and how we work: the artists we work with bring their own talents and experiences, and we are excited to explore how we will continue to infuse side-by-side.
Q. Does your company have a Board of Directors and paid staff?
No
Q. Tell me about your 2025-2026 Season. Does it have any underlying theme?
Even though this is Infuse Production’s first season, this is a milestone for us personally. We first worked together ten years ago, and now we are celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the film and The Palace. One of our themes is The Reveal. Not only are we revealing what you can expect from Infuse Productions, we are also taking this cult classic and bringing it to the stage and offering occasions for antici…pation. And we have so many things to reveal, so whether it’s your 50th time seeing Rocky Horror or your first, we’re sure that you will be entertained!
Q. What show(s) will you be staging this fall (September to December)? Tell me a little bit about each.
The Rocky Horror Show, October 23 to November 2 at the Palace Theatre, a co-production with London Community Players..
Q.Do you have any thoughts about the London area theatre community and your part in it?
We are a strong community that has been transforming and growing across every organization. We are very excited to have received such a warm welcome, and we cannot wait to share what we’ve been working on with audiences.
The Beat Magazine 2025 