25-26 Grand Theatre Season Brochure by thegrandlondon

CALENDAR

A full performance schedule for the 2025/26 season. Make sure to check your tickets for the date and start time of your performance!

The Grand Theatre acknowledges that we are located on the traditional territories of the Original storytellers and caretakers of this land, and of the Nations, both settler and Indigenous, who continue to uphold the various treaties of the Anishinaabek, Haudenosaunee, and Lunaapéewak.

In London, our treaties include the 1796 London Township Treaty and 1822 Longwoods Treaty. The London Township Treaty was a regional treaty signed by diplomats representing all parties living on the land, which today we know as Southwestern Ontario. The Longwoods Treaty was signed by representatives of the Crown and the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation and covers approximately 580,000 acres in the area.

Locally, there are three First Nations Communities. They are Chippewas of the Thames First Nation, the Oneida Nation of the Thames, and the Munsee Delaware Nation. We would also like to recognize the growing Indigenous urban population, comprised of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit people, and affirm our commitment to welcoming these communities to the Grand Theatre, while working to remove barriers to access and participation.

We value the significant historical and contemporary contributions of local and regional First Nations, and all of the Original Peoples of Turtle Island (colonially known as North America), and acknowledge the traditional lands upon which we live, work, share, and tell stories.

We are honoured to live, work, and tell stories, together here.

Designed

by Katie Wilhelm

Photo by Mai tilson

A Grand season takes audiences on a journey.

At times I feel like a travel agent, inviting theatre-goers on a year-long trip full of places they love, or have been dying to see. Stopping at unknown destinations along the way and unlocking delightful discoveries that they can’t wait to revisit.

Before the Spriet Stage Series launches, we will journey to 1890s New York City. In the Grand Theatre High School Project — Disney's Newsies — young people learn, both on- and off-stage, that when they band together big change is possible. The Play That Goes Wrong starts the mainstage season just right with a British side-splitting comedy/ murder mystery play that couldn’t possibly go any worse, until it does! Wonderful Joe kicks off our Auburn Stage Series, and takes us just up the road to Toronto, wherein Ronnie Burkett’s story community looms large in the city’s changing landscape. Disney's Frozen is a journey through time to Arendelle, a magical place (looking a little like Scandinavia) where we get lost in imagination, learning that true love has many forms. In Primary Trust, a small town gets a twist on reality as one man’s life gets cracked open when he lets his community in. Piaf/Dietrich is a show that began in Vienna, but this adaptation was born in Canada by the incomparable Erin Shields. It is a journey from Europe to America, through celebrity to loneliness, through fame to friendship. Next stop is New Zealand via India where Mrs Krishnan’s Party immerses us in both the immigrant experience and in the party! The Importance of Being Earnest takes us to turn of the twentieth century England where wit is an endlessly valuable commodity and truth is in the eye of the beholder! We end our season journey back in Canada, more specifically in Newfoundland, where Come From Away reminds us that we can achieve almost anything if we do it together.

In the plays this season, there is a theme of people trying to go it alone. But at their heart, these joyful stories are about the discoveries we make when we come together in community— the same way we do when we gather at the Grand, the place where world class theatre thrives.

Having explored London through my first year and through my first Grand season, I feel endlessly fortunate to have landed in this specific community. I learn every day, both from the staff at the Grand and from all of you, the incredible people who surround us: we are better together. It is with delight and thanks that we proudly say:

RACHEL PEAKE a RtistiC DiRECtoR

THANK YOU to our Sponsors and Supporters

Pay-What-You-Can Program Sponsor

The SprieT STage iS generouSly SponSored by helen & andy SprieT.

Presenting Sponsor Gold Sponsors

Silver Sponsors

Bronze Sponsors

Catering

Production Sponsors

Disney's Frozen Come From Away

London-Made Sponsors

Spriet-Theatre Sponsors

Community Sponsors

Channers

Daisy Flowers

Toboggan Brewing Co.

Sportswood Printing

Nash Jewellers

Tre Amici Wines

Advertising Partner

Community Sponsors

2025 Grand Gala

Directed by Ray Hogg

Music Directed by Matthew Atkins

Choreography by Krista Leis

SEP 17 TO 27, 2025

Step into turn-of-the-century New York City, a time of skyscrapers and money makers, with Disney’s Newsies: the story of charismatic Jack Kelly and his gritty band of newsies who keep the stories moving, selling papers throughout the town.

But when greedy publishing giants 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!

Famed for its imaginative and iconic dance sequences, this vibrant musical spectacular is based in the 1992 Disney motion picture, inspired by a true story, and features a Tony-Award winning score that includes songs such as “Carrying the Banner,” “Seize the Day,” and “King of New York.”

Built and performed by the Grand Theatre High School Project students!

Pictured: Keirah Buckley, Trent Robichaud, Paxton Nair. Costume Design by Lisa Wright. Mai Tilson Photography.

Jack leads a group of young newsies in a strike that makes the history books - and the headlines.

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YOUTH PROGRAM SPONSORS

Hang onto your seat and experience Broadway's funniest play, about the WORST murder mystery ever!

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A REVIVAL OF THE CITADEL THEATRE, THEATRE CALGARY, AND ROYAL MANITOBA THEATRE CENTRE’S 2024 PRODUCTION

BY HENRY LEWIS, HENRY SHIELDS & JONATHAN SAYER

Directed by Dennis Garnhum Fight / Movement Direction by Morgan Yamada

OCT

14 TO NOV 1, 2025

It’s Opening Night... and it's not going well.

Five amateur actors. A semi-adaptable stage manager. A missing canine. One play that goes very, very WRONG. Comprised of a spiraling series of increasingly absurd mishaps, this whodunit is a certified trainwreck guaranteed to deliver non-stop laughter until the curtains fall. You’ll be thinking, “It can’t possibly get any worse than this... can it?” And the answer is yes, it can.

This Olivier Award-winning comedy offers a hilarious glimpse into the absolute worst-case scenarios that can unfold in the world of theatre. Premiering in 2012 in the UK, it went on to run over 745 performances on Broadway. Helmed by former Grand Theatre Artistic Director Dennis Garnhum, the production will now make its way to the Grand Theatre in London.

A CO-PRODUCTION WITH THE CITADEL THEATRE

The Grand Theatre Production of

Directed by Rachel Peake

Music Directed by Alexandra Kane

Choreography by Ainsley Hillyard

NOV 18 TO DEC 28, 2025

Queen Elsa is reserved and careful, while her sister, Princess Anna, is free-spirited and playful. But, Elsa harbours a secret — she has powers she cannot control, leading her to flee from her past, and the home she’s always known. Now, Anna is determined to reunite with Elsa and break the winter spell threatening their people.

The Tony-nominated Frozen is the stage adaptation of Disney’s Grammy Award-winning 2013 animated film. Featuring music and lyrics by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, the musical includes beloved songs such as “Let It Go”, “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?”, and “Monster.” This London, Ontario premiere will be helmed by Grand Theatre Artistic Director Rachel Peake.

Kelly Holiff as Elsa. Costume Design by Cory Sincennes. Mai Tilson Photography.

TITLE SPONSOR WITH THANKS TO

For the first time in forever, the story of Elsa, Anna, and the frozen kingdom of Arendelle comes to life on the Grand Theatre stage.

Kenneth loves nothing more in the world than Mai-Tais, his job, and his best friend Bert – but one day, everything changes.

A CO-PRODUCTION WITH CROW'S THEATRE

BY EBONI BOOTH

Directed by Cherissa Richards

JAN 20 TO FEB 7, 2026

Thirty-something Cranberry Lake local Kenneth finds himself adrift after unexpectedly losing his long-time job at a bookstore. Stuck in self-doubt, he drowns his worries in cheap Mai-Tais and quality time with his best friend, Bert. But when a kind waitress named Corrina mentions a job lead, Kenneth seizes the chance for a fresh start. Join us for a happy hour (and a half) filled with love, loss, and self-discovery as Kenneth navigates the ups and downs of starting over.

This profound and deeply human play made its world premiere Off-Broadway at the Laura Pels Theatre in 2023. Critics have praised it as 'genuinely touching' and a 'thoughtful exploration of personal growth.' In 2024, American playwright Eboni Booth was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Drama for Primary Trust, cementing its place as a landmark addition to contemporary theatre.

2024 Winner: Pulitzer Prize for Drama

WRITTEN

DANIEL GROßE BOYMANN & THOMAS KAHRY

ADAPTED BY ERIN SHIELDS FROM THE TRANSLATION BY SAM MADWAR

Directed by Rachel Peake

Music Directed by Mary Ancheta

Choreography by Genny Sermonia

FEB 17 TO MAR 7, 2026

They say—in both friendships, and relationships—that opposites attract.

It is the end of the Second World War. Edith Piaf, the French chanteuse known for her raw and emotional ballads, meets fiery Marlene Dietrich, the German actress and singer who took Hollywood by storm. Dietrich recognizes Piaf's talent and takes her under her wing, for the world has yet to see the greatness she has to offer. Can their friendship thrive amidst the chaos of fame, politics, romance, and clashing personalities?

Piaf/Dietrich is a musical drama about the real-life unlikely friendship of icons Edith Piaf and Marlene Dietrich, featuring timeless hits such as “La Vie En Rose”, “Milord”, and “Lili Marlene”. Translated from the German production Spatz und Engel (The Angel and The Sparrow), and adapted by decorated Canadian playwright Erin Shields, this glamorous and music-infused bio-play has trod the boards in Europe, at The Segal Centre (Montreal), Mirvish (Toronto), and will now take on the Spriet Stage, directed by Grand Theatre

Artistic Director Rachel Peake.

Two dazzling icons forge an unlikely friendship amidst the challenges of post-WWII & the Golden Age of Hollywood.

a trivial comedy for serious people.

Oscar Wilde’s hilarious classic of two friends, lost in love, navigating a series of entirely avoidable misadventures.

BY OSCAR WILDE

Directed by Alistair Newton

MAR 24 TO APR 12, 2026

Meet Jack Worthing and Algernon Moncrieff, two close friends who have one solution to all of their problems — lying!

Both lead double lives: Jack uses the fake persona of 'Ernest' to escape his responsibilities, while Algernon invents an imaginary friend to dodge social obligations. But when both men fall in love with eligible ladies, they must untangle a web of lies, misunderstandings, mistaken identities, and hilarious situations to win their hearts. Will they be able to keep up the ruse?

Considered one of Wilde’s best works, The Importance of Being Earnest is a guaranteed laugh-out-loud chaos of troubles and mix-ups from start to finish. With its clever humour and playful commentary of Victorian society, the play has remained a staple for over a century.

& LYRICS WRITTEN BY IRENE SANKOFF AND DAVID HEIN

Directed by Julie Tomaino

Music Directed by Sarah Richardson

Choreography by Nicol Spinola

APR 28 TO MAY 24, 2026

On the northeast tip of North America, in the town of Gander, Newfoundland, a community receives a message. The U.S.A has shut down its airspace, forcing thousands of planes to be diverted. Among them, 38 flights full of passengers are about to land nearby, and will have nowhere to stay.

Countless “trips to Shoppers” later, the community braces for the displaced and uncertain visitors, ready to meet them with open arms, and open doors. Based on the events of September 11, 2001 (and the days that followed), Come From Away tells the true and heartwarming story of kindness in the face of unprecedented circumstances.

This award-winning Canadian musical has captured the hearts of theatregoers since its 2015 world premiere, going on to become a Tony and Olivier Award-winning modern classic. Featuring a toe-tapping and heart-thumping score including the songs "Welcome to the Rock", “Me and the Sky”, and “Heave Away,” Come From Away is a celebrated story about the power of community.

BOOK, MUSIC.

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Explore a world of theatre with a

Refer to the Pricing Chart and Seating chart for general locations and pricing:

*Ask about packages for : BUSINESSES STUDENTS EDUCATORS COMMUNITY THEATRE

Zone A

*Pricing includes all facility fees (CIF), service charges, and HST. The Grand generally seats new subscribers in Best Available orchestra-level seats. If you have specific seating requests, please contact the Box Office at 519.672.8800.

Pictured: J.M. Plester, Natalie Tsang, & Jonathan Tschirhart. Photos by Blue Free Cooper

The Grand Theatre presents

A Production of RONNIE BURKETT THEATRE

OF MARIONETTES

Music by JOHN ALCORN

NOV 4 TO 16, 2025

Ronnie Burkett returns with a hilarious and heartfelt tale of retired Joe and his dog, Mister.

He’s not your average Joe! Elderly Joe lives in the urban jungle of a bustling metropolis, where gentrification is rapidly changing the landscape. When he is suddenly evicted, Joe and his loyal dog, Mister, find themselves without a home or a sense of certainty. Determined to make the best of the situation, the pair turn their misfortunes into an adventure full of humour, forming unlikely friendships with some memorable characters along the way.

Siminovitch Prize winner Ronnie Burkett brings this story to life with his signature style of beautiful puppetry and solo performance, with a glorious score and soundscape by John Alcorn. The Globe and Mail’s Best Theatre of 2024 wrote, “If I had to pick only one favourite piece of theatre from this year, Wonderful Joe was it.” Known to Londoners for his sold out runs of The Daisy Theatre (2016, 2017) and Little Dickens (2023), Burkett returns with a touching story brought to life by his string marionettes.

Ian Jackson, Epic Photography.

by Jacob Rajan & Justin Lewis

Directed by Justin Lewis

Dramaturgy by Murray Edmond

FEB 25 TO MAR 7, 2026

Mrs Krishnan is throwing a party, and you’re invited! RSVP to the most festive and immersive theatre experience of the season.

Welcome to the colourful, vibrant world of Mrs Krishnan where the food is simmering, the music is flowing, and mouthwatering aromas fill the air. She waits for the arrival of her son to make the Onam celebration complete. But her plans take an unexpected turn, and we are all now a part of the festivities.

Dive into an immersive theatre experience as the Auburn Stage transforms into a lively back room of a corner store, complete with spontaneous dancing, live cooking, and a heartfelt reflection of the immigrant experience. It’s a party like no other! The New Zealand Herald calls it “a joyful, highly theatrical celebration.” Your seat is waiting for a vibrant experience of theatre, culture, and community.

FEB 25 to MAR 7

The series that’s always sold out!

Unless you’re a GRANDTHEATRE subscriber. 2025 2026

2025/26 Performances:

Aug 14, 2025 - Pink Floyd

Nov 4, 2025 - American Billboard Gold

Jan 8, 2026 - Soulful

Apr 16, 2026 - A Night at Woodstock

June 4 & June 5, 2026 - Queen

Subscribers get early access to the bonus QUEEN performance on June 5th 2026!

QUEEN

JUNE 4 & 5,2026

Get your tickets to Jeans N’ Classics: QUEEN

WAYS TO SAVE & ACCESSIBILITY

The Grand Theatre is committed to welcoming Indigenous Peoples During each season, the theatre offers $20 tickets to welcome individuals who

EDUCATORS’ NIGHT OUT

Are you a student who craves more theatre in your life?

Check out our Student Club - a specially-priced subscription for students, featuring post-show activities! Enjoy all 6 Spriet Series productions on Thursday previews for only $120!

Same-Day Student rush tickets are available for all Grand Theatre Spriet Stage and Auburn Series shows, starting at midnight on the day of the corresponding performance for $29.95. Valid for A & B seating zones only. Maximum 2 tickets. Student ID must be presented to pick up tickets.

You deserve a fun night out! In the Drewlo Lounge after the performance, mingle with other educators and patrons while diving deeper into the show’s content at AfterWORDS - an exclusive post-show chat featuring special guests! See all 6 Spriet Stage shows for the price of $300.

LONDON COMMUNITY THEATRE PACKAGE

Are you a volunteer performer, director, producer, music director, choreographer, backstage crew, or other role in London community theatre? Then this package is just for you! Join other arts-committed individuals on the Tuesday preview performance of all 2025/26 subscription series productions for $222.

Program Sponsor

RELAXED PERFORMANCE

Disney’s FROZEN

OPEN CAPTION PERFORMANCES

THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG

Oct 25, 2025

ASL INTERPRETED PERFORMANCE

PRIMARY TRUST

Jan 31, 2026

Disney’s FROZEN Dec 6, 2025 THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST Apr 4, 2026 Dec 7, 2025

WAYS TO

1) Online – no waiting in line! You can print your tickets at home or display them on your smartphone. These tickets are available online starting at 12:00am (in $5 increments), the day of the performance.

2) In-Person – at the theatre, beginning one hour prior to the start of the PWYC performance. Payment may be made by cash, credit*, or debit*.

*CREDIT/DEBIT PAYMENTS MUST BE MADE IN $5 INCREMENTS.

SEP 21, 2025

OCT 19. 2025

NOV 9, 2025

NOV 23, 2025

JAN 25, 2026

FEB 22, 2026

MAR 1, 2026

MAR 29, 2026

MAY 3, 2026

Learn more about Ways to Save at the Grand!

AFTERWORDS

The grand’s Wednesday post-show talkback

On Wednesday evenings, immediately following the show, join host Breanne Ritchie in the Drewlo Lounge for a brief guided discussion with guest artists, creative team members, and Grand staff members. Enhance your theatre experience with this informal chance to dive deeper into the show’s content while mingling with patrons and artists.

BACKSTAGE Tours

See the historic Grand Theatre like you’ve never seen it before with a backstage tour.

For inquiries about public tours, schedules, and availability, please visit For tours designed with Student and Youth Groups in mind, contact britchie@grandtheatre.com Grandtheatre.com/backstage-tours

TEA TALKS

Hosted by Artistic Director, Rachel Peake Wednesday matinee

Tea Talks occur before the Wednesday 1:00 p.m. public matinee of each Spriet Stage production. Join us at noon for creative conversations pre-show with Artistic Director, Rachel Peake and special guests connected to the show. Enjoy a complimentary coffee/tea and cookie, hear insights into Grand productions, participate in stimulating discussion, and then settle into your assigned seats for the matinee.

Whether you are a professional artist, an emerging artist, a participant in community arts, or simply curious about getting started, this program for London-based artists is for you!

Hands-On Workshops

Interactive theatre training in playwriting, auditioning, vocal technique, and improvisation

Season-long development program for

Speaker Series

Talks on theatre industry topics like production, tech, and professional development

Auburn Stage Rentals

Space available for indie productions, workshops, and events

Past events included special guest hosts such as Mark Crawford, Rachel Peake, Alexandra Kane, Rebecca Northan, Christine Gruenbauer, Rachael Dean, and more!

Visit for details, dates and, how to get involved!

Interested in renting the Auburn Stage? Drop us a line at rentals@grandtheatre.com grandtheatre.com/artists-auburn

Use the map to discover exclusive deals and local treasures waiting for you—whether you’re shopping for something special or enjoying a pre- or post-show treat. Just show your ticket on the day of your performance and let the perks roll in. Your Grand adventure awaits!

Want to join the show? Become a partner in our Very Important Partner Program and get your business in front of thousands of theatre lovers. It’s your chance to offer exclusive perks, drive traffic, and be part of the vibrant, supportive Grand Theatre community.

Contact JWILEY@GRANDTHEATRE.COM to include your business!

Your Grand adventure starts from anywhere!

beyond the block:

downtown destinations:

Tuesday - Saturday: 9am - 7pm

Sunday: 10am - 5pm

Monday: Closed

EXTRA! EXTRA!

MAKE A GRAND IMPACT: NOW AND INTO THE FUTURE

Investing in Youth: Make A Difference for Generations to Come

The Grand Theatre High School Project, Disney’s Newsies, will see 61 students from across the London region take the stage and work behind the scenes — gaining invaluable experience in a professional setting. Thanks to donor support, the program remains completely free for all participants. The Grand’s investment in youth extends beyond the stage, with the subsidy of student matinees, discounted student subscriptions, and Holiday Wish for Kids.

Enriching Lives Through Art

Community Ticket Program, and Educators’ Night Out are made possible through charitable contributions. Whether through one-time or monthly donations, or corporate sponsorship, every gift supports meaningful access and engagement.

Leave Your Legacy

Initiatives such as performances with ASL interpretation and Relaxed Performances, Tea Talks, AfterWORDS, Indigenous

CLASSIFIED: LOOKING FOR DONORS!

Preserve the legacy of the Grand Theatre for generations through Planned Giving. By making future-based contributions such as Gifts in Wills, Life Insurance Policies, Listed Securities, and Charitable Annuities, donors play a vital role in ensuring the continued vibrancy and success of the historic theatre. Planned Giving allows individuals to make a lasting impact, providing financial stability, and helping the Grand Theatre remain a cultural cornerstone well into the future.

WAYS TO GIVE

Make A Difference

Heather Siskind-Levite, Director of Development, at hsiskind-levite@grandtheatre.com 519-672-9030 x251

Farrell Tremblay, Individual Giving Coordinator, at ftremblay@grandtheatre.com 519-672-9030 x246.

Annual DonationMonthly Donation

Legacy Giving

Supporting all youth initiatives of the Grand Theatre. Make a lasting impact through Planned Giving. Donate at the frequency that works best for you! or grandtheatre.com/ways-to-give

The Company of Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical Photo by Angelina Moses

Note: There are no “C” and “D” zones for the Grand Theatre High School Project.

All pricing is subject to change. Artists and programming subject to change. Prices include all facility fees, service charges, and HST. Exchanges may only be made to another performance of the same production, with 24 hours notice, based on availability. Upgrade charges may apply. See website or contact the Box Office for more info.