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It’s 1939, the year of King George’s first Royal Tour of Canada, and rumour has it that a Residential School in Northern Ontario is on the itinerary. As the Welsh English-teacher rehearses her students for a performance of All’s Well That Ends Well for the King, the Indigenous actors discover surprising parallels between their various cultures and Shakespeare’s script—and set out to make his bittersweet comedy their own.
Why I Chose This Play
Jani Lauzon and Kaitlyn Riordan have crafted a play full of empathy and humour. They have found a way of addressing the tragedy of Residential Schools that gives the Indigenous students agency and pride. And I love the surprising way in which Shakespeare—the ultimate colonial icon—is given new vitality and significance. – Michael Shamata
Initially produced at the Stratford Festival in 2022, 1939 was born of both family legacy and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action and has been guided by Indigenous Elders, Survivors, and ceremony throughout its development.
A Belfry Theatre and Canadian Stage joint production in association with The Stratford Festival.
“Bold and unexpected…sparkles and compels…”
“A gripping tale of heart and humanity… a stunning success.”
“A moving and powerful must-see play ”
Audiences experience our work on many levels – some people like to prepare in advance and others prefer to be surprised when they see the show. We’ve created a host of live and digital experiences to help you gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of our plays.
Our live talk show, hosted by CBC Radio’s Gregor Craigie, returns for its 12th season! Attend in-person, watch it live on Facebook, or catch it later on Vimeo or YouTube. B4Play features artists from the upcoming show, along with experts from the community, who illuminate themes in the play.
Following the third Thursday performance of each show, actors return to the stage to answer your questions and provide insight into the play you have just experienced. These Q & A sessions last approximately 20 minutes.
For patrons with low or no vision, we offer one VocalEye performance during most Mainstage productions. Trained Audio Describers provide descriptions of the visual elements of the show, allowing people with low vision to enjoy the theatrical experience without missing any of the details.
Brefny Caribou
Susan Blackbird
Merewyn Comeau
Evelyne Rice
Richard Comeau
Joseph Summers
Catherine Fitch
Sian Ap Dafydd
Nathan Howe
Father Williams
Amanda Lisman
Madge Macbeth
Grace LaMarche
Beth Summers
John Whamsley
Jean Delorme
Jani Lauzon
Playwright
Kaitlyn Riordan
Playwright
Jani Lauzon
Director
Joanna Yu
Set Design
Sim Suzer
Associate Set Designer
Asa Benally
Costume Design
Barbara Morrone-Sanchez
Associate Costume Designer
Louise Guinand
Lighting Design
Sruthi Suresan
Associate Lighting Designer
Wayne Kelso
Sound Designer & Composer
Sarah Miller
Stage Manager
Maya Bowers
ASM
