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Grand Theatre unveils titles for its 2026/27 Season:
All in Grand Time
2026/27 marks Artistic Director Rachel Peake’s third season of programming at the Grand Theatre, and the 125th year of live performance on the storied Spriet Stage
March 10, 2026 – London, ON – The Grand Theatre is unveiling its upcoming 2026/27 Season “All in Grand Time” – including four unforgettable plays, two spectacular musicals, five symphonic rock concerts, and a new live comedy series. Three new Canadian works will take the Spriet Stage, as well as two shows never before seen in Ontario, a Canadian premiere of work by Tony Award-winner Matthew López, and Canadian theatre collaborations that place the Grand as part of two Canadian-made World Premieres. The season is set to delight audiences with the best of Off-Broadway, Broadway, and the West End, as well as the chance to meet exciting new stories and artistry.
“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,” shares Rachel Peake, Artistic Director of the Grand Theatre. “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 2035! They will cheer on our heroes as they run out the clock, make up for lost time, and evaluate their legacy. But they will also observe forces (some ominous, and some… very, very, sexy) that defy the limits of time itself.”
Starting in modern day with an immortal favourite, the season will open with Off-Broadway and the West End’s campy, clever Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors. Award-winning director, Krista Jackson (Imago Theatre, Stratford Festival) is known to Grand audiences for a fast-paced and deliciously dark laugh. With audience favourite Jesse Gervais (Clue, Grand Ghosts) set to star as Dracula himself, this London-made production of the world’s hottest take on its least honourable prince will leave you thirsty for more.
For the holidays, a new musical take on A Christmas Carol, written by Canadian David van Belle, re-set in a late-1940s department store and featuring everyone’s seasonal favourites, including “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”, “Walking in a Winter Wonderland”, “I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas”, and more. Artistic Director Rachel Peake will helm the production as her third holiday musical spectacular at the Grand and shares, “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.” Peake is joined by Stephen Ingram as Music Director and Genny Sermonia as Choreographer.
In the New Year, the Grand will welcome cicadas, an eerie eco-thriller by one of Canada’s most dynamic and exciting writers, Siminovitch laureate and Governor General’s Award-winner David Yee and to be directed by none other than the National Arts Centre’s Artistic Director, Nina Lee Aquino. In partnership with the National Arts Centre English Theatre and Tarragon Theatre, this world premiere is fully-scored by composer Chris Thornborrow, performed by a live orchestra on stage, and imagines a haunting reckoning with nature in the not-so-distant future.
Next to the stage is Somewhere – a love letter to mid-century New York City, the golden age of Broadway, and all things West Side Story – by Tony Award-winner Matthew López (The Inheritance, Some Like It Hot), to be directed by Carmen Aguirre, and choreographed by Genny Sermonia. In this heartfelt, poignant family-drama laced with dance, the Candelaria family has the talent for fame beyond their cosy Puerto Rican neighbourhood and yet gentrification – and the building of the Lincoln Centre – threaten home as they’ve always known it.
To warm us into Spring, the classic love story of Cyrano de Bergerac and his very large nose will take to the Grand’s Spriet Stage in a new modern-verse adaptation by Jessy Ardern and directed by Amanda Goldberg. Loosely based on the real life of the infamous 17th-century novelist and playwright, this costume period drama promises sword fighting, poetry, romance, and conflict all written in lively rhyming couplets.
The clock keeps ticking towards the end of the season, and there is one more title yet to come. 9 to 5, the musical based on the hit 1980 film with chart-topping music and lyrics by Dolly Parton, the Queen of Country herself. This hilarious office revenge plot gone wrong – directed by Rachel Peake - will bring the house down and send us off to summer singing with the top down. Alexandra Kane joins the production as Music Director, and Allison Plamondon as Choreographer.
“In an age when life can often feel difficult, stepping into another time can be a way to take some space, find freedom, and go on a welcome adventure,” shares Peake. “And yet, every show in this season has been chosen for what it has to say about right here, right now, about our lives and the present day.”
Meanwhile, as the weeks and months of the season tick by, the Grand will also be staging its always sold-out Jeans ‘N Classics rock symphony concert series – and has announced Grand Laughs, a new comedy series that will bring top-name stand-up and cutting-edge improv to Downtown London all season long. This season’s Jean ‘n Classics series will begin with “Peter’s Playlist”, in memory of creator and musician Peter Brennan, followed by concerts spotlighting iconic female voices that shaped rock music (think Pat Benatar, Stevie Nicks, Janis Joplin …), first-wave British artists (The Who, The Beatles, Pink Floyd, Elton John, Queen, and more), Tom Petty’s timeless blend of Southern storytelling and rock n’ roll, and ‘90s Power Chords (Nirvana, Counting Crows, REM, Alanis Morrissette). For Grand Laughs, the new comedy series, audiences will need to stay tuned for exciting news to be announced.
Subscriptions for the Grand Theatre’s six-show Spriet Series, Jeans ‘n Classics, and the Grand Laughs comedy series are on sale now, with Early Bird pricing offering steep savings between now and May 5. Subscribe online at grandtheatre.com/subscribe, call the Box Office at 519.672.8800, or stop by the theatre in Downtown London at 471 Richmond Street.
2026/27 Season at the Grand Theatre:
All in Grand Time
DRACULA: A COMEDY OF TERRORS
By Gordon Greenberg and Steve Rosen
Directed by Krista Jackson
October 20 to November 7, 2026
Perfect for all blood types. Off-Broadway’s campy twist on horror’s oldest crush!
“Sexy and campy with non-stop hilarity... you don’t want to miss this!” – Forbes
“If you’ve been craving a break from the frights of real life, this campy, vampy romp is a scream!” – TimeOut NY
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 (Imago Theatre, Stratford Festival) is known to Grand audiences for a fast-paced and deliciously dark laugh. 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, 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
“Krista Jackson paces the action very tightly so that there is almost not enough time to finish laughing before the next laugh begins.” – Stage Door, review of Fly Me to the Moon directed by Krista Jackson at the Grand
Krista Jackson’s direction delivers “hilarious dialogue, physical comedy and dark humour” – Theatre in London, review of Fly Me to the Moon directed by Krista Jackson at the Grand
“deliciously entertaining” – London Free Press, review of The Lion in Winter directed by Krista Jackson at the Grand
A CHRISTMAS CAROL
By David van Belle
Based on the novella by Charles Dickens
Directed by Rachel Peake
Music Directed by Stephen Ingram
Choreographed by Genny Sermonia
November 24 to December 27, 2026
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
cicadas
Created by David Yee and Chris Thornborrow
Directed by Nina Lee Aquino
January 19 to February 6, 2027
A Grand Theatre Revival of the NAC English Theatre/Tarragon Theatre Co-Production
What if your house had a mind of its own? An eerie eco-thriller that hits close to home.
It’s 2035, and an investigation into the mysterious disappearance of a young girl leads to an old, mysterious house that seems to be sinking into the earth. A flood with no leak, walls consumed by long-extinct botanicals, and hordes of cicadas are only a few of the odd occurrences seeping up through the old floorboards.
In partnership with the National Arts Centre and Tarragon Theatre, this world premiere is an eco-thriller fully-scored with a live orchestra - that imagines a gripping, immersive future reality, illuminating our profound connection to nature without laying blame.
Created by Siminovitch laureate and Governor General’s Award-winner, David Yee, scored by Dora Award-winning composer Chris Thornborrow, and directed by none other than the National Arts Centre’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
SOMEWHERE
By Matthew López
Directed by Carmen Aguirre
Choreographed by Genny Sermonia
February 23 to March 13, 2027
Subsequently produced by Hartford Stage Company, Hartford, CT
New York breaks ground on a bold new era, while the West Side Story dream of a family of dancers hangs in the balance.
“In this family, the first language is neither Spanish nor English, but dance” – Sylviane Gold, The New York Times
“López … draws us in with a witty and warm commentary on immigration and the way newcomers are simultaneously seduced and stung by the forces of assimilation.” – Karen D’Souza, Oakland Tribune
It’s 1959 and West Side Story is all that anyone can talk about. Inez Candelaria works as an usher on Broadway but hopes 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 neighbourhood-wide eviction abruptly threatens everything they have worked for.
From Tony Award-winning 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
CYRANO DE BERGERAC
Written by Edmond Rostand, Adapted by Jessy Ardern
Directed by Amanda Goldberg
March 30 to April 17, 2027
In Partnership with the Citadel Theatre and Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre
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 warrior-poet with a beak-to-be-bargained-with truly find happiness?
“Written in rhyming couplets and set in the 17th century, this 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
9 TO 5
Music and Lyrics by Dolly Parton
Book by Patricia Resnick
Based on the 20th Century Fox Feature
Originally Produced on Broadway by Robert Greenblatt, April 2009
Directed by Rachel Peake
Music Directed by Alexandra Kane
Choreographed by Allison Plamondon
May 4 to 22, 2027
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
To learn more about the Grand Theatre’s 2026/27 Season: All in Grand Time, visit grandtheatre.com/2627-season. Follow along with the season and peek behind the scenes by following @thegrandlondon and #GrandTheatre on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Threads, Bluesky, YouTube, & TikTok.
The Grand Theatre is grateful to offer Canada Life Pay What You Can pricing for performances of Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors on Sunday, October 25 at 2 p.m., A Christmas Carol on Sunday, November 29 at 1 p.m., cicadas on Sunday, January 24 at 2 p.m., Somewhere on Sunday, February 28 at 2 p.m., Cyrano de Bergerac on Sunday, April 4 at 2 p.m., and 9 to 5 on Sunday, May 9 at 2:00 p.m.
The Grand Theatre gratefully acknowledges Season Sponsor BMO, Downtown Community Partner Old Oak Properties, and Title Sponsors BlueStone Properties, Digital Extremes, London Hydro, and McCormick Canada for their support.
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The Grand Theatre is 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. 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.
ABOUT THE GRAND THEATRE – WORLD CURIOUS. LONDON MADE.
The Grand Theatre is known for world-class theatre created and built in London, Ontario. As southwestern Ontario’s premier producing theatre and one of the most beautiful theatre spaces in Canada, the company has deep ties to the community and to its artists, artisans, and technicians.
As a vibrant cultural hub and not-for-profit professional theatre, the Grand serves to gather, inspire, and entertain audiences in London and beyond. At our home in downtown London, we create productions on two stages: the Spriet Stage (839 seats) and the Auburn Developments Stage (144 seats). The Grand season of theatrical offerings runs from September to May, and we collaborate with companies and artists across the country through our co-productions that see London-made artistic and creative work travel to audiences nation-wide. Through our successful New Play Development Program, the Grand is committed to developing and premiering new, original works and supporting the growth and reach of theatre writers and creators. Our recently renovated venue offers a contemporary and welcoming environment that is also home to several successful music series, community arts rentals, and cultural and special events.
A cornerstone of the organization is our place as a teaching theatre, exemplified in our many mentorship programs and highlighted in our annual Grand Theatre High School Project. As the first program of its kind in the country and currently in its twenty-eighth year, the High School Project involves as many as one hundred high school participants annually from schools across the region. These students participate at no cost and take on roles both on stage and off, in a fully realized mainstage production under the direction of a professional creative team.
For more information, visit: grandtheatre.com.
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mshipley [at] grandtheatre.com (mshipley[at]grandtheatre[dot]com) | 519.672.9030 x266
