The Grand Theatre acknowledges that we are located on the traditional territories of the Original storytellers and caretakers of this land and 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 the 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 the 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 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 together.
We are honoured to live, work, and tell stories, together here.
Designed by Katie Wilhelm
One of the joys of the theatre is its ability to play with time. Every one of our London Made productions is undeniably a race to Opening Night. But also, the stories told on stage give audiences the unique opportunity to “stop the clock” on certain moments, sprint through others, and to sit –fully present – within the present.
Through the course of the Grand’s 2026/27 Season, audiences will visit 1640, 1897, the late 1940s, 1959, 1979, and even travel forward to the Spring of 2032! They will cheer on our heroes as they run out the clock, make up for lost time, and evaluate their legacy. They will also observe forces (some ominous, and some… very, very, sexy) that defy the limits of time itself.
In an age when life can often feel quite difficult, stepping into another time can be a way to get away from those challenges and step into the unknown. And yet, every play in this season has been chosen for what it has to say about right here, right now – about our lives and the present day.
I believe that every show in this season will touch your heart and that each one will leave you with things to think about. Which makes it easy to say, come and join us for all of this, All in Grand Time.
RACHEL PEAKE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
PHOTO BY DAHLIA KATZ.
THANK YOU to our Sponsors and Supporters
The SprieT STage iS generouSly SponSored by helen & andy SprieT.
SEASON SPONSOR
PUBLIC FUNDERS
PROGRAM SPONSORS
"PAY-WHAT-YOU-CAN" PRESENTING SPONSOR
DOWNTOWN COMMUNITY PARTNER
STUDENT CLUb PRESENTING SPONSOR
HOLIDAY WISH FOR KIDS PRESENTING SPONSOR
TITLE SPONSORS
DRACULA: A COMEDY OF TERRORS
JEANS 'N CLASSICS
HIGH SCHOOL PROJECT PROGRAM SPONSORS
LERNERS STAGE SPONSOR
TD EMERGING TALENT SPONSOR
CICADAS
SEP 22 TO OCT 3, 2026
LEZLIE WADE , DIRECTOR
MATTHEW ATKINS , MUSIC DIRECTOR
JULIUS SERMONIA , CHOREOGRAPHER
DEWEY IS A WANNABE ROCKSTAR, KICKED OUT OF HIS BAND, FACING EVICTION, AND HARDCORE IN NEED OF SOME CASH.
Posing as substitute teacher at a prestigious prep school, he meets a group of straight-A students who – with his guidance – might just become the guitarshredding, bass-slapping, drum-smashing rock band of his dreams! If only it weren't for the prying eyes of their parents, and an ultra-square headmistress. With the Battle of the Bands in sight, will Dewey succeed in getting the students on stage, or will his dreams of rock stardom bite the dust?
Based on the blockbuster 2003 movie, School of Rock features all of the music that you love including "In the End of Time" and "School of Rock (Teacher's Pet)” PLUS 14 new songs for the stage by legendary composer, Andrew Lloyd Webber.
We raise the goblet of rock to the student actors, singers, production teams, and (for the first time) onstage musicians of the 28th annual Grand Theatre High School Project!
“School of Rock is a fun, high-energy show and a chance for high school students to be playing instruments right on the stage, which is an exciting first for the Grand Theatre High School Project. It's a show about the strength of young people and about how your individualityyour weirdness - is your strength.”
–
RACHEL PEAKE, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
YOUTH PROGRAM SPONSORS
KRISTA JACKSON, DIRECTOR
OCT 20 TO NOV 7, 2026
DRAC IS BACK – SINGLE, SEXY, AND HE’S GOT A TYPE. THIS FAST-PACED, GENDER-BENDING, QUICK-CHANGING, FARCE WITH FANGS IS GUARANTEED TO QUICKEN YOUR PULSE IN BETWEEN SCREAMS OF LAUGHTER.
A meek British realtor takes on a new and mysterious client, who just happens to be the most terrifying and bloodthirsty monster the world has ever known. The client's deep pockets? Irresistible. His attraction to the realtor's fiancée? Concerning. Meanwhile, three women – a doctor, a soil-enthusiast, and a failed flirt – navigate the men amongst them and find a way to stop all the bloody dying, no matter how dangerously sexy it is.
Award-winning director Krista Jackson is known to Grand audiences for fast-paced and deliciously dark laughs (Fly Me to the Moon, The Lion in Winter). This London Made production of the world’s hottest take on its least honourable prince will leave you thirsty for more.
“It’s sexy, campy, satirical, and fun. The amazing Krista Jackson (Imago Theatre, Stratford Festival, and former Associate Artistic Director at the Grand) is directing this gorgeous production with a small, clever cast. Expect all the delight that Grand audiences love in a comedy, with a bass note of smart social commentary.”
– RACHEL PEAKE, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
“IF YOU’VE BEEN CRAVING A BREAK FROM THE FRIGHTS OF REAL LIFE, THIS CAMPY, VAMPY ROMP IS A SCREAM!” – TIMEOUT NY
TITLE SPONSOR
DAVID VAN BELLE
BASED ON THE NOVELLA BY CHARLES DICKENS
NOV 24 TO DEC 27, 2026
RACHEL PEAKE , DIRECTOR
STEPHEN INGRAM , MUSIC DIRECTOR
GENNY SERMONIA , CHOREOGRAPHER
A MUSICAL RE-IMAGINING OF THE TALE OF SCROOGE, CRATCHIT, AND THE MAGIC OF THE HOLIDAYS. BAH HUMBUG!
Much mistletoeing, hearts a-glowing, family and spooky spirits gathered near, it’s the most wonderful time of the year! Join Scrooge and the Cratchit family for a holiday musical spectacular with the story and carols that you grew up on – now in a new Canadian adaptation set in the nostalgia of a 1940s department store a little like Macy's, a little like Kingsmill’s, and a lot like memories of sitting on Santa’s knee.
This musical retelling of A Christmas Carol features performances straight from the holiday songbook, including seasonal favourites “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”, “Walking in a Winter Wonderland”, “I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas”, and more. Marvel as the holiday season comes to life with shoppers busily checking their lists and staff holiday parties that whirl and twirl the night away with stunning choreography and a live band on stage.
“I love this show. It’s heartwarming, it’s nostalgic, it’s the holidays. It calls on us to do good in the world. And it’s a Canadian adaptation by the incredible David van Belle. I was part of its development in Edmonton and now I get to direct it in its second iteration in a big, beautiful, London-made holiday musical production.”
– RACHEL PEAKE, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
TITLE SPONSOR
WITH THANKS TO
PRODUCTION SPONSORS
A GRAND THEATRE REVIVAL OF THE NAC ENGLISH THEATRE/ TARRAGON THEATRE CO-PRODUCTION
AGE RECOMMENDATION: 14+
CREATED BY
DAVID YEE & CHRIS THORNBORROW
JAN 19 TO FEB 6, 2027
NINA LEE AQUINO , DIRECTOR
WHAT IF YOUR HOUSE HAD A MIND OF ITS OWN? AN EERIE ECO-THRILLER THAT HITS CLOSE TO HOME.
In 2032, while on the hunt for a new home in Toronto’s Trinity Bellwoods, Trim and Janie are drawn to a very peculiar house. A flood with no leak, an ominous voice, and hordes of cicadas are only three of the many strange things seeping up through the old floorboards. Could a strangely luminous painting unlock long-hidden secrets of what lies beneath the home?
This reimagining of the world premiere production is an eco-thriller underscored by live music. It imagines a gripping, immersive future reality, illuminating our profound connection to nature without laying blame. Created by Siminovitch laureate and Governor General’s Awardwinner, David Yee, scored by Dora Award-winning composer Chris Thornborrow, and directed by none other than the National Arts Centre English Theatre’s Artistic Director, Nina Lee Aquino.
“As a live experience, theatre has a unique ability to be creepy, scary, give you goosebumps in your seat. This piece, written by one of Canada’s most dynamic and exciting writers, David Yee, does exactly that. From podcast to stage to VR and beyond, from Ottawa to Toronto to London, I cannot wait to share this with audiences at the Grand!”
– RACHEL PEAKE, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
TITLE SPONSOR
FEB 23 TO MAR 13, 2027
NEW
CARMEN AGUIRRE , DIRECTOR
GENNY SERMONIA , CHOREOGRAPHER
YORK BREAKS GROUND ON A BOLD NEW ERA, WHILE THE WEST SIDE STORY DREAM OF A FAMILY OF DANCERS HANGS
IN THE BALANCE.
It’s 1959 and West Side Story is all that anyone can talk about.
Inez Candelaria works as an usher on Broadway but dreams that her talented and dance-obsessed children will find fame on the other side of the footlights. Meanwhile, the family nervously counts the days until a neighborhood-wide eviction abruptly threatens everything they have worked for.
From Tony Award-winner playwright, Matthew López (The Inheritance, Some Like It Hot), the Los Angeles Times praises Somewhere as “ebullient, charming — a sprawling family drama and a coming-of-age story.” From the kitchen of their San Juan Hill apartment to stunning Jerome Robbins-inspired choreography on the streets of Manhattan, this talented and determined Puerto Rican family leans into the pure joy of dance and refuses to give up on their dreams.
“This play stole my heart. By Tony Award-winner Matthew López, it’s about dreaming, it’s about family, it’s about immigration. It’s about living in the shadow of displacement – inspired by West Side Story and also the real-life building of Lincoln Centre. It is absolutely a love letter to dance, an homage to Broadway, with a complex and beautiful message about art and the world we live in.”
– RACHEL PEAKE, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
“IN THIS FAMILY, THE FIRST LANGUAGE IS NEITHER SPANISH NOR ENGLISH, BUT DANCE”
– SYLVIANE GOLD, THE NEW YORK TIMES
TITLE SPONSOR
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE CITADEL THEATRE AND ROYAL MANITOBA THEATRE CENTRE WRITTEN BY EDMOND ROSTAND ADAPTED BY JESSY ARDERN
MAR 30 TO APR 17, 2027
AMANDA GOLDBERG, DIRECTOR
SWORD FIGHTS, MISTAKEN IDENTITY, AND THE GUY WITH THE NOSE TUCKED UNDER THE BALCONY – ALL THE CLASSICS OF A TIMELESS LOVE STORY.
“HE’S AGGRESSIVE AND EXPLOSIVE AND WEARS RATHER OLD CLOTHES: BUT HE HAS LOTS OF PANACHE (AND A VERY LARGE NOSE).”
– JESSY ARDERN
Written in modern verse and brimming with daring duels, quippy repartee, and a love triangle for the ages, Jessy Ardern’s adaptation of Rostand’s classic has us rooting once again for the noble Cyrano. This bold reimagining of a timeless romance brings a fresh, witty edge to the story of the lovelorn Cyrano and his rather large nose.
A gifted wordsmith and legendary duelist living in the time of the Musketeers, our hero is a loyal friend to the end despite a series of unfortunate events and an unrequited love that threatens to consume from within. In a world obsessed with appearances, can this warriorpoet with a beak to be bargained truly find happiness?
“Written in rhyming couplets and set in the 17th century, this funny and fresh new adaptation of the classic has sword fights, period costumes, and a devoted yet doomed love story – laced with nods to modern life, language, and energy.”
– RACHEL PEAKE, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
MAY 4 TO MAY 22, 2027
RACHEL PEAKE, DIRECTOR
ALEXANDRA KANE, MUSIC DIRECTOR
ALLISON PLAMONDON , CHOREOGRAPHER
AN ORDINARY DAY AT THE OFFICE TAKES A TURN WITH A CULT-CLASSIC REVENGE PLOT AND CHART-TOPPING TUNES BY THE ONE AND ONLY DOLLY PARTON.
Clickety clack, heels on the sidewalk, nails on a keyboard … or is that Dolly working on the title track? Step into the high-waisted skirts, polyester prints, and strappy peep-toe pumps of Judy, Violet, and Doralee for a night out with 9 to 5, its trio of leading ladies, and hit music by the Queen of Country herself including “9 to 5”, “Backwoods Barbie”, “Shine Like the Sun”, and “Get Out and Stay Out.”
It’s 1979. Working for a living feels a lot like a rich man’s game, and it’s hard not to think about how good it would feel to get back at the boss – especially when he passes you over for promotion, again. Based on the blockbuster hit movie, and packed with music, mischief, and misadventure, 9 to 5 will have you singing along from your seat and rooting for working women who aren’t waiting for what’s theirs. “9 to 5 has a playful energy while also digging into a really vital message about women in the workforce, gender equality, and pay equity. It is smart escapism with a huge heart, great songs, and a fun, energetic send off into summer.”
– RACHEL PEAKE, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
PRODUCTION SPONSOR
ROCK SYMPHONY
EXCELLENCE IS BACK!
5-SHOW CONCERT SERIES COMPLETE WITH CLASSIC TUNES AND UNFORGETTABLE STORIES.
PETER’S PLAYLIST
TUE AUG 18, 2026
A rockin' tribute to Jeans ‘n Classics founder, Peter Brennan (19512025). Highlighting the music Peter considered to be the best of the series, Peter’s Playlist is performed by the musicians that are continuing his rock symphony legacy.
WOMEN ROCK THE STAGE
THU OCT 8, 2026
Celebrate the iconic female voices that shaped rock music! Featuring music made famous by Heart, Pat Benatar, Stevie Nicks, Alanis Morissette, Janis Joplin, Annie Lennox, Fleetwood Mac, Joni Mitchell, and more.
BRITROCK!
THU JAN 7, 2027
A smashing celebration of the diverse, influential, and genre-spanning influence of first-wave British artists, such as The Who, The Beatles, Pink Floyd, Elton John, Queen, and others!
TOM PETTY
THU APR 22, 2027
Tom Petty’s timeless blend of Southern storytelling and rock n’ roll is celebrated with a set list that includes “Don’t Do Me Like That”, “Into the Great Wide Open”, and “Free Fallin’”.
‘90S POWER CHORDS
THU JUN 3 & 4, 2027
The ideal soundtrack for losing your religion, smelling like teen spirit, or the times you have to let it linger. Our Jeans ‘n Classics finale concert will have you rocking out and reminiscing to the tunes of your (semi-charmed) ‘90s life! For more information visit GRANDTHEATRE.COM/JNC
FREE PARKING
Courtesy of our Downtown Community Partner, Old Oak Properties.
VIP ACCESS
Early access to add-ons like Jeans ‘n Classics: '90s Power Chords.
CONVENIENCE PERKS
Hassle-free ticket exchanges. Need to miss a show from your series? Turn back unused tickets BEFORE your performance for a tax receipt.*
FLEXIBLE PAYMENT PLANS
50/50 or monthly instalments to manage the purchase of your subscription.
PRICE-CONSCIOUS PERKS
15% OFF the Grand Theatre High School Project: School of Rock and additional single tickets in your subscription series.
*Benefits subject to terms & conditions. Unused tickets must be returned before the performance to be transferred into a tax-deductible donation.
SPRIET SERIES PRICING
See ALL SIX productions of the 2026/27 Spriet Series... Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors, A Christmas Carol, cicadas, Somewhere, Cyrano de Bergerac, and 9 to 5.
Unless otherwise
ORCHESTRA
new subscribers will be assigned the best
SEATS in the requested price zone. If you would like to discuss your seating options, you may phone the Grand Theatre Box Office at 519.672.8800.
SPECIAL SUBSCRIPTIONS
LONDON COMMUNITY THEATRE NIGHT
Community theatre participants and volunteers access deeply discounted pricing and are part of the first public audience for every Spriet Series show.
TUESDAY PREVIEWS. PACKAGE PRICE: $222.00
Educators enjoy discounted pricing and subscriber perks. Stay after the show and experience a postshow AfterWORDS discussion.
WEDNESDAY PREVIEWS. PACKAGE PRICE: $300.00
EDUCATORS’ NIGHT OUT BUSINESS SUBSCRIPTION
STUDENT CLUB
Students of all levels receive deeply discounted pricing, and an exclusive post-show featuring an artists chat and pizza.
THURSDAY PREVIEWS. PACKAGE PRICE: $120.00
Give your company the standing ovation it deserves and secure tickets, perks, and special event opportunities for the entire season!
4 SEATS, ANY PERFORMANCE. PACKAGE PRICE: $1,800.00
PRICING
2026/27 SEASON
FLEX PACKAGES
CHOOSE 3 OR 4 PLAYS AND SAVE 15% (PLUS GET HASSLEFREE EXCHANGES). PRICES STARTING AT $192.15!
Pricing will vary based on performance and seating zone.
• Flex Package Holders will be seated in the best available seats in A+ or A sections. You may have different seats for each production.
• When purchasing a Flex Package, you must choose your plays at the time of booking. Select your seats online when booking, OR phone the Box Office (519.672.8800) for assistance in choosing dates.
• Flex Packages are valid for the 2026/27 Season Spriet Series only. The package cannot be extended into later seasons, and missed shows cannot be refunded.
For more information visit GRANDTHEATRE.COM/FLEX-PACKAGES
GROUP PRICING
Whether you're organizing a night out with friends or family, our group rates make it easy to experience live entertainment at a great value.
PLAYS: DRACULA: A COMEDY OF TERRORS, cicadas , SOMEWHERE, CYRANO DE BERGERAC
REGULAR PERFORMANCES
MUSICALS: A CHRISTMAS CAROL, 9 TO 5 PREVIEW
# OF TICKETS
REGULAR PERFORMANCES
Tie a bow around your company's holiday party this winter with A Christmas Carol, or celebrate your clients with an exhilarating performance of 9 to 5. It’s all possible as a performance host here, at the Grand Theatre.
RECOGNITION & BRANDING
• Activation space in lobby with signage and promotional material
• Opportunity for giveaway and activations
• Name and logo on the lobby screens and projection screen for the night
• Name featured on outdoor marquee
• Verbal recognition from the stage as performance host
ENTERTAINMENT & EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
owntown Community
• Four complimentary tickets for each sponsored performance
• 50 or more additional tickets at a 25% discount
• Exclusive opportunity to book out the entire balcony, orchestra, at a reduced rate based on availability
• Host a pre-show reception with no rental fee
• Option for catering*
• Customized drink ticket, an open bar, or cash bar*
*additional fees apply
$1,000.00
WEEKDAY PERFORMANCE
Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday
$1,500.00 WEEKEND PERFORMANCE Friday, Saturday, or Sunday
THURSDAY, FEB 11, 2027
8 PM | SPRIET STAGE
A retrospective of the greatest soul singers of all time featuring the powerhouse vocals of Lee Siegel, known to audiences for Waitress and Disney’s Frozen at the Grand, as well as the boards of Broadway and the Stratford Festival. Spend the evening with the genre-defining music of Sam Cooke, Bill Withers, Marvin Gaye, Otis Redding, Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles, Percy Sledge, Smokey Robinson, Edwin Starr, and more!
For more information visit GRANDTHEATRE.COM/EVENT/SOUL-MAN
INDIGENOUS COMMUNITY TICKET PROGRAM
The Grand Theatre is committed to welcoming Indigenous peoples to the theatre. The Indigenous Community Ticket Program offers $20 tickets to welcome individuals who identify as Indigenous to all Grand Theatre productions.
Share the power of the livetheatre experience with your students with our student matinee performances. Schools enjoy discounted group rates for students and teachers through this subsidized initiative.
STUDENT MATINEES STUDENT RUSH
Same-Day Student Rush tickets are available for all Grand Theatre Spriet Stage Series shows, starting at midnight on the day of the corresponding performance for $29.95 (price includes CIF and HST).
Tickets may be purchased online, on the phone, or at the door (if purchasing on the phone or online, e-tickets will not be emailed in advance, as patrons must show Student ID and pick up their tickets at Box Office). Valid for A & B seating zones only.
PAY-WHAT-YOU-CAN
The Grand Theatre is pleased to continue Canada Life Pay-What-You-Can (PWYC) pricing for the first Sunday matinee of the High School Project and each Spriet Series production.
THE GRAND HIGH SCHOOL PROJECT: SCHOOL OF ROCK SUN, SEP 27 AT 2 PM
DRACULA: A COMEDY OF TERRORS SUN, OCT 25 AT 2 PM
A CHRISTMAS CAROL SUN, NOV 29 AT 1 PM
cicadas SUN, JAN 24 AT 2 PM
SOMEWHERE SUN, FEB 28 AT 2 PM
CYRANO DE BERGERAC SUN, APR 4 AT 2 PM
9 TO 5 SUN, MAY 9 AT 2 PM
HOW MUCH IS A PWYC ADMISSION?
TWO WAYS TO BUY
That’s up to you! We encourage you to pay as you are able. There is no minimum—or maximum—amount. You will receive the best seat available at the time of booking (not eligible for exchanges).
1. ONLINE - no waiting in line! You can print your tickets at home or display them on your smartphone. Tickets are available at at 12 AM (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.
WORLD CURIOUS. LONDON MADE.
At the Grand Theatre, “London Made” reflects our commitment to create work by and for this community. Here at 471 Richmond Street, you’ll find our Prop Shop, Wardrobe Department, rehearsal halls, the intimate Auburn Stage, and the world-class Spriet Stage. And for the largest set pieces? They’re built, crafted, and painted just down the road at the Grand Theatre’s Scene Shop, about 17 minutes away. From first rehearsal to final curtain, it’s an entirely local process powered by skilled artists and creators right here in London.
CLOCKWISE: MIrabELLa Sundar SIngh and JudITh bOWdEn (COSTuME dESIgnEr) In WardrObE FITTIng FOr The ImporTance of BeIng earnesT dIrECTEd bY aLISTaIr nEWTOn. PhOTOgraPh bY braEdan LEE (bLInC VISuaLS). CraIg guThrIE (SEnIOr SCEnIC arTIST) PaInTIng SETS FOr come from aWaY. SET dESIgn bY SCOTT PEnnEr dIrECTEd bY JuLIE TOMaInO. PhOTOgraPh bY MELISSa MaE ShIPLEY. TErra C. MaCLEOd, ErIC CraIg, dEbOrah haY, and KarEn burThWrIghT In rEhEarSaL FOr pIaf/DIeTrIch dIrECTEd bY raChEL PEaKE. PhOTO bY MELISSa MaE ShIPLEY. naTaLIE TSang (PrOPS buILdEr/buYEr) and EMMa graY (PrOPS aPPrEnTICE) buILd a PIanO FOr The ImporTance of BeIng earnesT. SET dESIgn bY MIChELLE TraCEY dIrECTEd bY aLISTaIr nEWTOn. PhOTO bY naTaLIE KEarnS.
RECEPTIONS & EVENTS
Turn your trip to the theatre into something more! Reserve one of our lounges for a pre-show or postshow reception, perfect for a group or event of any size. Business lunches, holiday celebrations, family reunions, networking events, bachelorette parties –we can do it all, and pair it with world-class theatre your guests are certain to remember.
GIVE THE GIFT OF LIVE THEATRE
Thrill the theatre-lover in your life with a Grand Theatre gift certificate!
Gift Certificates do not expire, and are only valid for Grand Theatre productions.
SCAN THE QR CODE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON VENUE RENTALS.
SCAN THE QR CODE FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT GIFT CERTIFICATES.
ACCESSIBILITY
We are committed to arts accessibility by providing ongoing improvements to programs, facilities, and services that support an extraordinary experience for all patrons. We currently offer the following programs and resources:
PERFORMANCES WITH ASL INTERPRETATION
SOMEWHERE | MARCH 13, 2027 AT 2 PM
OPEN CAPTIONED PERFORMANCES
A CHRISTMAS CAROL | DECEMBER 12, 2026 AT 1 PM CYRANO DE BERGERAC | APRIL 17, 2027 AT 2 PM 9 TO 5 | MAY 22, 2027 AT 2 PM
RELAXED PERFORMANCES
A CHRISTMAS CAROL DECEMBER 13, 2026 AT 1 PM
Relaxed Performances are designed to welcome neurodivergent audiences, people with disabilities, and anyone who prefers a more relaxed theatre experience. These performances feature a flexible environment where patrons may leave and re-enter the theatre, with reduced lighting and sound effects and no strobe lights or fog.
Young children and babes in arms are welcome.
BEYOND THE STAGE
Onstage and off, there's more to experience than ever before! Check out our post-show events and pre-show talks, clubs, backstage tours, and more...
On Wednesday evenings, immediately after the performance, join host Breanne Ritchie on the Lerners Stage 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.
Join us 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 1:00 p.m. matinee.
NEW! PAST TEA TALKS NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE AT GRANDTHEATRE.COM/TEA-TALKS
BACKSTAGE TOURS
See the historic Grand Theatre like you’ve never seen it before with a backstage tour. Get an inside look at what happens on and off the stage of the Spriet and Auburn theatres and what it takes to produce a show at the Grand.
SCAN THE QR CODE FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT BACKSTAGE TOURS.
ARTISTS IN THE AUBURN
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!
Season-long development program for local playwrights, featuring writing workshops and public readings.
SPEAKER SERIES HANDS-ON WORKSHOPS
Talks on theatre industry topics like production, tech, and professional development.
Interactive theatre training covering a wide variety of the artistic skills it takes to make great theatre. From auditioning to directing to vocal technique and so much more.
AUBURN STAGE RENTALS
This flexible performance space can be reconfigured to suit any artistic vision, often welcoming community events and performances.
Killing time downtown before the show? Trying to tick something off your shopping list? Or do you need a timeout to grab dinner? Listen up – it’s time you clocked in to performance day discounts with VIP!
Your Grand Theatre ticket unlocks exclusive discounts at select businesses all over London. Just show your ticket on the day of your performance to save – it’s that easy!
We love being your space for arts and culture in downtown London and being able to create these incredible pieces of story-telling art for all our neighbours right here in the city. We not only build and produce our productions – we also teach the next generation of industry greats through programs like the Grand Theatre High School Project, create accessible experiences like Open Captioned Performances, offer subsidized ticket programs, and more!
Ticket sales only cover approximately 50% of our expenses each year. In order to be successful, we also rely on government grants, foundations, corporate sponsors, and donors like you to help us do all the amazing work here at the theatre and within the community.
with our develop ment team for ways to give or make a donation online.
MEET ME UNDER THE CLOCK
A CHRISTMAS CAROL FOR THE GOLDEN AGE OF RETAIL
In the 1940s, department stores were centrepieces of a vibrant downtown… complete with polished wood floors, tissue-wrapped packages, and sales staff primed to offer bespoke experiences. Part shopping centre, part social hub, and complete architectural wonder, memories of these spaces may include the bygone Eaton’s, Simpson’s, and (certainly to Londoners) Kingsmill’s.
The Grand Theatre’s upcoming production of A Christmas Carol (November 24 to December 27, 2026) revolves around exactly such a place – a department store called Marley’s, owned by Ebenezer Scrooge. It is no longer the 1840s, Scrooge no longer owns a bank, and the classic story of Scrooge, Cratchit, and three very insightful ghosts is transported to the late 1940s, where the gold glitters just a little bit extra over the holidays.
And it’s a musical, to be directed by the Grand Theatre’s Artistic Director, Rachel Peake. Entwined with nostalgic visuals, whirling dance sequences choreographed by Genny Sermonia, and actor-musician renditions of seasonal hits like “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”, “Carol of the Bells”, and “Walking in a Winter Wonderland” (music directed by London’s Stephen Ingram), audiences can expect a classic holiday tale imbued with a bustling new energy.
For playwright David van Belle, who began developing this version at the Citadel Theatre in 2018, the shift from a bank to a department store serves to contrast the spectacle of Scrooge’s capitalist mindset, with the lesson that he must learn within the story. “From a nostalgic point of view, the setting is referencing classic films like Gimbel’s Department Store in Miracle on 34th Street, and it also gives a setting for Scrooge to show something of his character. Scrooge is surrounded by Christmas, but what he’s really interested in is the bottom line.”
In partnership with set designer Scott Penner (Waitress, Come From Away), Director Rachel Peake remarks on the opulent, mid-century setting of A Christmas Carol as a fun exploration of a post-WWII fascination with the aesthetics of Christmas.
“We’re thinking about the metallic ornaments, the tinsel, and really playing into the images of Christmas that were born at that time, while also
juxtaposing the size and the grandeur of the ghost story against the light and life of the holiday season.”
And for Peake’s third programmed season as Artistic Director, a holiday classic imbued with live music and dance is just the ticket to continue what remains an annual outing and tradition for many theatregoers. “For me, it’s a marriage of two worlds – a great script, and everything that a musical does so well in terms of bringing the emotions and the spectacle of the story up to the next level.”
“For many people, the act of gathering friends and loved ones and going to the theatre around the holidays is an annual event. I’ve spoken to so many people who mark the holidays together with the Grand Theatre holiday show each year. Hearing stories like that fill me with warmth.
It is a joy that we get to be a part of people’s holiday tradition.”
125 YEARS OF LIVE PERFORMANCE
On September 9, 1901, Way Down East became the very first production staged at the New Grand Opera House at 471 Richmond Street. In the 125 years that have followed, this building has been a home for community and culture in the heart of Downtown London.
A NEW PLAYHOUSE FOR LONDON
1901-1919
After a fire destroyed London’s previous Grand Opera House the year prior, Colonel Whitney and theatre magnate Ambrose J. Small built a new theatre. Fitted with electricity, the New Grand Opera House could house up to 1,850 patrons for one performance, had its own phone number (176), and boasted a striking proscenium arch, painted by muralist Frederick S. Challener.
HYBRID STAGE AND MOVIE HOUSE ERA
1920-1933
After the sale of the Grand and the famed disappearance of Ambrose J. Small, John Mihinnick – the Dean of Canada’s showmen – saw the Grand through changes of ownership and competed for audiences with radio and film. The Grand screened movies, explored “movie technology in combination with stagecraft,” and continued to offer live theatre.
LONDON LITTLE THEATRE ERA
1934-1971
With ticket sales down during the Great Depression, local theatre companies banded together to become London Little Theatre, adopting a subscriptions-only approach to ticket sales that allowed them to raise funds to support the season. A decade later, London Little Theatre purchased the building and became the first amateur theatre company in Canada to own their theatre. In 1952, rumours of a supernatural entity living within the Grand began to circulate.
FROM LITTLE TO PROFESSIONAL THEATRE
1971-1985
After 37 years as the home of an amateur theatre company, the Grand would become a professional theatre, Theatre London, helmed by Artistic Director Heinar Piller. Piller felt that the building needed to keep pace with the exceptional art on stage, and a major renovation took place from 1977-1979, adding a second stage, the McManus Studio Theatre, and demolishing much of the old building except for the main stage and its famed proscenium arch. In 1983, Theatre London renamed to “Grand Theatre” forging an inseparable bond between the building and the professional theatre company that calls it home.
PERFORMANCE IN LONDON, ONTARIO
THE GRAND THEATRE ERA
1986-PRESENT
Following tremendous growth and tremendous debt, the Grand Theatre company wiped the slate clean in 1986, marking a period of financial strength. For five decades and counting, the building has been London, Ontario’s regional professional theatre. In 2017, a historic $1M donation from Andy and Helen Spriet inspired the renaming of main stage to the Spriet Stage. In 2020, a third major renovation took place, modernizing the lobby spaces and enhancing backstage areas, rehearsal halls, and the studio theatre, all in service of a bright future for the performing arts in the region.
GRAND INTERIOR AUDIENCE (1918-1929)
INTERIOR OF THE GRAND WITH THE SECOND BALCONY VISIBLE, 1911
