Tag: theatre

Newsies at the Grand Theatre reviewed by Jo-Anne Bishop.

by Richard Young

Extra! Extra! Read all about it!
The High School Project Does It Again!
By Jo-Anne Bishop

If you’ve never attended a Grand Theatre High School Project production, you’re missing out. For nearly three decades, the Grand has showcased the best and brightest young stars in our region through spectacular musicals such as The Sound of Music, West Side Story, Evita, and The Phantom of the Opera, to name just a few. These productions are so polished and rich, they rival professional theatre in larger cities. And the best part? They’re performed and co-produced by high school students—on, behind, and below the stage. It truly is something to be celebrated.

(Pictured: Newsies Company)

This year’s offering is Disney’s Newsies, and once again, the Grand proves why this project is worth sustaining year after year. The depth of talent among our local students—whether homeschooled, unschooled, or attending one of our many schools—is nothing short of inspiring.

Newsies tells a fictionalized account of the 1899 New York City newsboys’ strike, when young workers took a stand against unfair prices and poor working conditions. The musical captures their fighting spirit as Jack Kelly leads his fellow “newsies” in a battle for justice. When publisher Joseph Pulitzer raises newspaper prices overnight, the boys—and girls—along with journalist ally Katherine Plumber, rally together to demand fair treatment.

The casting was spot on, with standout, ovation-worthy performances from Paxton Nair (Davey), Tessa Pritchett-White (Les), Trent Robichaud (Jack Kelly), Keirah Buckley (Katherine Plumber), Leland Chafee (Crutchie), and Chloe Webb, whose hilariously menacing Wiesel was a crowd favourite. Each of these young actors poured heart and soul into their roles. I can’t wait to see what’s next for them and hope they never lose that spark.

(Pictured: Keirah Buckley (Katherine Plumber), Trent Robichaud (Jack Kelly), Paxton Nair (Davey. Costume Design by Lisa Wright. Photo by Mai Tilson.)

A special mention must go to Sophia Belleth as Medda Larkin. Her commanding presence and powerhouse vocals will raise goosebumps and transport you right out of your seat. Her showstopping performance of That’s Rich was Broadway-caliber. If she doesn’t end up on a bigger stage, it will be the theatre world’s loss.

The musical numbers were the strongest element of the production. Whether solo or ensemble, the energy and passion were infectious. The ensemble was the backbone of the show—their athleticism, commitment, and joy lit up the stage and carried the story beautifully. These young people left everything they had on the stage, and I look forward to seeing what the future holds for each of them.

(Pictured: Paxton Nair (Davey). Costume Design by Lisa Wright. Photo by Mai Tilson.)

From a production standpoint, the direction was sharp, the lighting and set design—with clever moveable parts—were seamless, and the costumes were perfection. The only area that fell short for me was the sound. Some solos sounded muffled or canned, and at times dialogue was difficult to catch. It may have been technical or just where I was sitting, but it stood out in an otherwise stellar production.

Director Ray Hogg said, “At first glance, Newsies is about a group of kids who go on strike after repeatedly being taken advantage of by rich and powerful people, but it’s really about young people discovering what it means to be the future… finding the bravery to speak truth to power, seek justice, and demand equality.”

A timely message. To these young stars: may you carry these lessons forward—stay unified, speak your truth, and always shine bright.

(Pictured: Newsies Director Ray Hogg)

Congratulations to the Grand and to every student involved in another triumphant High School Project.

If you go:
What: The Grand Theatre High School Project Production of Newsies
When: September 17–27, 2025
Tickets: $26–$55 at grandtheatre.com, by phone at 519-672-8800, or at the Box Office, 471 Richmond Street. Canada Life Pay-What-You-Can pricing for the 2:00 p.m. performance on Sunday, September 22.

Reviewed by Jo-Anne Bishop

Elgin Theatre Guild delivers a heartfelt, unforgettable production with Steel Magnolias. Reviewed by Jo-Anne Bishop.

by Richard Young

Steel Magnolias Hits Like a Hammer

By Jo-Anne Bishop

“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

Reviewed by Jo-Anne Bishop

Introducing LIT Productions: Grease is the word!

by Richard Young

This is the tenth in a series of Q&A Profiles with London area theatre companies and groups. Today, we interview Melissa Ogden, founder of LIT (Live Immersive Theatre) Productions

Q. When was your company founded? By whom and why? 
I created LIT Productions in 2024, and we officially launched in 2025. LIT stands for Live Immersive Theatre.  I have been a professional musician and supporter of the arts most of my life, and I am very excited about this new venture.  I saw a need for a different night out that combined film, performance art, live music, and socializing, all for a reasonable ticket price. An alternative to the theatre or going to a nightclub.

Q. Is your company best described as professional or not-for-profit community theatre? Or both? 
LIT Productions is a professional company. We have a growing team of talented musicians, vocalists, stage managers, and sound and lighting technicians.

Q. What venue(s) do you use to stage your productions? 
One of the things that makes LIT Experiences different from traditional theatre is the party atmosphere.  Guests are seated at tables with their friends, where they can talk and enjoy cocktails during the show.  They can walk around, sing, and dance. So, our indoor venues are banquet halls and clubs rather than theatres.  I am also actively booking outdoor shows in 2026.  These shows will have a similar party vibe with a beer garden where guests bring their own lawn chair.  An outdoor movie, live show, and a cold beer on a beautiful summer night – how fun is that?!  Our debut production of Grease is being held indoors at The Marconi Club of London on September 26, 2025.

(Pictured: LIT Productions founder, Melissa Ogden)

Q. Does your company have a Mission or Statement of Purpose? 
At LIT Productions, we blend film, live music, and performance theater to create immersive, one-of-a-kind LIT Experiences. We champion collaboration, diversity, and inclusion, and deliver an unforgettable (and affordable) night out. It’s a new way to ‘theatre’.

Q. Does your company have a Board of Directors and paid Staff? 
As of now, I am the sole owner and decision maker.  All the LIT performers and production team are paid. We also have volunteers who help out at events.

Q. Tell me about your 2025-2026 Season. Does it have any underlying theme? 
We will be putting on more Grease shows in 2026, both indoor and outdoor.  We will also be launching our production of The Rocky Horror Show. I am also excited to launch booking packages that will allow businesses to book an LIT Experience for corporate fundraisers and private events.

Q. What show(s) will you be staging this fall (September to December)? Tell me a little bit about each. 
I will explain what LIT Experiences are. A movie musical plays on the big screen and the musical numbers are performed live in character! Unlike the theatre, you can mingle, sing, dance – it’s a party! Our only show in 2025 is ‘Grease – a LIT Experience’ – Sept 26 at The Marconi Club. It’s sold out.  And we are starting production of Rocky Horror to launch in 2026. The ultimate goal is to be staging several different productions (Grease, Rocky Horror, Mama Mia, Hairspray) at various venues throughout the calendar year.

Q. Do you have any thoughts about the London area theatre community and your part in it? 
We have created a dynamic team by blending together members of the music and theatre communities. We have vocalists who sing in bands but have never performed in theatre before. And we have theatre vocalists who have never performed in front of a live rock band.  We have amazingly talented musicians from different genres.  It has been so fun and collaborative and we are all learning from and getting the best out of each other.  Judging by our sold out show and Londoner’s support of other live shows in the city, we definitely have a thriving arts scene.  I want to thank Londoners for that!  I have been a member of the music community for many years, but I am new to the theatre scene. I look forward to collaborating with both communities on events and initiatives that support and promote the arts in London. 

You can follow LIT Productions on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/litproductionscanada

Introducing The London Performing Arts Academy

by Richard Young

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.  

For more information about London Performing Arts Academy, visit https://londonperformingartsacademy.ca/

You can follow LAPA on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/londonperformingartsacademy.ca/photos

Meet The Beat Magazine 2025 Theatre Reviewer Jo-Anne Bishop

by Richard Young

Jo-Anne will be reviewing local theatre productions for The Beat Magazine 2025. If your company would like your show reviewed, contact richardyoung@thebeatmagazine2025.ca.

Background and Experience in the Arts

My background in the Arts started with an early love for music and dance. I attended my first concert at 10 years old (Helix at the Sarnia Arena in 1983!) and began tap and modern jazz dance lessons around the same time. My love for live theatre was built through school trips to the Stratford Festival to see plays like Romeo and Juliet, The Merchant of Venice, and Macbeth, and a trip to Toronto for The Phantom of the Opera, which quickly became my all-time favourite.

I dreamed of performing for many years, but being too self-conscious to audition in high school, I sat on the sidelines and instead reviewed music and theatre for our school newspaper. In 2013, I finally pushed my fears aside and was cast in my first play, Laughter on the 23rd Floor, as Carol Wyman, the only female writer on the Max Prince show. I have since performed in productions of Birth (Jillian, 2016), Hamish (Annette, 2023) and The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime (Mrs. Alexander, 2024).

Previous Reviewing Activities

SCITS, Sarnia, Ontario – High school newspaper reviewer for Music and the Arts

London Fringe Festival, London, Ontario, 2012-2015

Independent Reviewer and Blogger (Theatre in London and The Pollyanna Papers), 2015-2016?

Why am I jumping back into the fray now?

After performing for a few years, I’ve decided to take a break from the grind of auditioning, rehearsing and performing. While I love it immensely, it’s a lot of work. Performing has given me a whole new perspective and appreciation of what goes into a production and the ability to look at reviewing with a fresh set of eyes.

Thoughts about the London arts and culture scene, especially local theatre

Hoo wee! London has such a wealth of talent, from youth to adults. Every time I see a play, I am amazed at how talented our actors, directors, producers, set/prop/costume/light/sound designers are. I don’t think causal observers realize just how much goes into making a production from the audition to the curtain call. It is a huge undertaking, and to think our theatres produce such world-class productions on some very tight budgets is astounding, especially at the community theatre level, where volunteers do everything.

Sadly, since COVID, I have witnessed a huge decline in attendance at performances, and it breaks my heart. I have also noticed a sad lack of reviews lately, which I find are necessary to give people an idea of what to expect and a reason to go to the theatre.

So, before I can put my feet on the stage again, I want to help put bodies in the seats. We need to reignite a love for theatre and the arts in this city.

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer writer for The Beat Magazine 2025, please contact Richard Young, Publisher & Content Manager, at richardyoung@thebeatmagazine2025.ca. We are seeking writers and reviewers for local music, visual arts, fiction, poetry, and prose.

Introducing The Kettle Creek Players: Panto Is Where It’s At.

by Richard Young

This is the eighth in a series of Q&A Profiles with London area theatre companies and groups. Today, we profile the Kettle Creek Players (KCP).

Q. When was your company founded? By whom and why?  

Kettle Creek Players was founded in January of 2023 by Jessica Fediw. St. Thomas had started British Pantomimes in 2012 but when the pandemic hit, theatre was put on hold. When the arts resumed, there was a demand for panto again. The local theatre that had done them in the past had decided to no longer do them. Jessica was approached by several people, asking for panto to make a return so she did some research into venues and found Central United. The rest is history! 

(Pictured: Jessica Fediw and Judy Cormier)

Q. Is your company best described as professional or not-for-profit community theatre? Or both?  

KCP is a not-for-profit community theatre. All of the money made from our shows goes back into the next year’s production costs.

Q. What venue do you use to stage your productions?  

Our venue is Central United Church at 135 Wellington St. in St.Thomas, Ontario.

Q. Does your company have a Mission or Statement of Purpose?  

Our goal is to provide quality live family shows for all ages. We are an inclusive theatre troupe. We are passionate about giving people of all abilities the chance to shine on stage. Community is very important to us.

Q. Does your company have a Board of Directors and paid staff?    

KCP has a board of directors. We are run entirely by volunteers. It takes a village to run a community theatre. We are forever grateful to all those who volunteer their valuable time for our productions.

Q. Tell me about your 2025-2026 Season. Does it have any underlying theme?   

We don’t have a season, per se. We do one show a year, around Christmas time, usually falling at the end of November, beginning of December. Our theme is British Pantomime, which consists of a fairytale, fable, or story that has a hilarious twist. Audiences are encouraged to interact with the actors when prompted. The 4th wall is continuously broken, and silliness and fun are the name of the game. Our first Panto in 2023 was Little Red Riding Hood, written by John Allen. 2024’s Panto was Cinderella, adapted by Lesley Chapman and Ken Roberts.

We also participate in community endeavours. If the community needs actors for a vignette or for an event, we work with them to provide quality engagements. It’s a lot of fun! 

Q. What show will you be staging this fall (September to December)? Tell me a little bit about it. 

Our show this year is Wicked Witches of Oz, written by Peter Nuttall with permissions from Lazy Bee Scripts. It will be directed by Judy Cormier and Jessica Fediw. It follows the adventure of two “wicked witch” sisters who have devised a plot to kidnap the Wizard of Oz and make their world greener. Their plans are thwarted at every turn by the many characters they come across in Munchkin Land. 

Q. Do you have any thoughts about the London area theatre community and your part in it? 

The London and area theatre scene is a thriving one. Although it took a hit during the pandemic, we are all building ourselves back up, year after year. We all work together as a team and really support each other; it’s really great to see. 

For more information about The Kettle Creek Players, visit https://www.kettlecreekplayers.ca/

Follow the Kettle Creek Players on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093650556219

Follow the Kettle Creek Players on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kettlecreekplayers?

Introducing Ingersoll Theatre Of Performing Arts (ITOPA).

by Richard Young

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.

What could possibly go wrong?

Inspecting Carol

By Daniel Sullivan

December 12, 13, 14*, 18, 19, 20*, 21*
Showtime: 7:30pm
*indicates Matinee performance 2:00pm

A Christmas Carol meets The Government Inspector meets Noises Off in this hilarious hit from Seattle.

A man who asks to audition at a small theater is mistaken for an informer for the National Endowment for the Arts.

Everyone caters to the bewildered wannabe actor, and he is given a role in the current production, A Christmas Carol.

Everything goes wrong and hilarity is piled upon hilarity. Perfect anytime, this delight is particularly appropriate at Christmas.

Bingo!

By Daniel MacIvor

March 6, 7, 8*, 12, 13, 14*, 15*
Showtime: 7:30pm
*indicates Matinee performance 2:00pm

 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.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https://www.itopa.ca/

Follow ITOPA on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ingersolltheatre

2025 Grand Theatre High School Project presents Disney’s Newsies.

by Richard Young

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.

Introducing Infuse Productions: Antici…pation.

by Richard Young

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.

For more information about Infuse Productions and to purchase tickets for The Rocky Horror Show, visit https://www.infuseldn.ca/infuse-productions

Follow Infuse Productions on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/infuseldn

Follow Infuse Productions on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/infuseldn/

Follow Infuse Productions on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@infuseldn

Introducing Banished By The King Productions.

by Richard Young

This is the fifth in a series of Q&A Interviews with representatives of London area theatre companies and groups. Today, we interview Sean Brennan of Banished By The King Productions.

(Who is The Banished Guy? The Banished Guy was originally drawn by Sean Brennan in Grade 3. You can easily tell by the crooked smile, misshapen ears, and lumpy eyes why the King would banish this guy.)

Q. When was your company founded? By whom and why?

Our company was founded in 2009 as a dream to continue to produce, write, and act in shows after graduating from university. Many of our original and founding members attended King’s University College, and thus, once our studies were over, we became Banished By The King. Over the years, the group has morphed and grown to include the talents of many members of London’s thriving community theatre scene.

(Pictured: Sean Brennan, Banished By The King Productions)

Q. Is your company best described as professional or not-for-profit community theatre? Or both?

We are a community theatre group.

Q. What venue(s) do you use to stage your productions?

As of 2019, we have been producing at Procunier Hall at The Palace Theatre. Previously, we produced our work at The Arts Project. As of 2024, we have become the Theatre Company in Residence at the Palace Theatre Arts Commons.

Q. Does your company have a Mission or Statement of Purpose?

We create original and unique theatre experiences for our audiences. Since 2009, we have produced eighteen full productions and staged readings, and will continue to push ourselves as artists and creative people.

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?

We will be remounting a previously successful production of The Family Creetin by Patrick Brennan in April 2026 at the Palace Theatre.

Q. What show(s) will you be staging this fall (September to December)? Tell me a little bit about each.

Our auditions for The Family Creetin booked up quickly, and the wait list continues to grow. Keep your eyes open as we’re hoping to have another staged reading or fundraising event in the fall. Check out banishedproductions.ca for all upcoming news.

Q. Do you have any thoughts about the London area theatre community and your place in it?

The London Theatre community is a vibrant tapestry that encompasses many differing groups, ideas, and organizations. With an aim to entertaining and enlightening audiences, we look forward to contributing to that tapestry and reflecting our original and unique community in our work.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https://banishedproductions.ca/

Follow Banished By The King on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/banishedbytheking

And on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/banishedbytheking/