Alert

Subscriptions for our 50th Anniversary Season are on sale now.

Learn More >> Close
1979

1979

By Michael Healey

September 9, 2025 - October 5, 2025
Venue
Belfry Mainstage

A comedy that spears the farcical machinations of politics.

 

December 13, 1979: the day of the parliamentary vote on Joe Clark’s austerity budget. It’s almost certain to bring down his government. A parade of politicians, including Pierre Trudeau, John Crosbie, and Flora Macdonald—try to offer advice—but honest hapless Joe is determined to stick to his principles—even if it means triggering an election he’s bound to lose.

Why I Chose This Play
This is a hilarious look at ethics in politics—a worthy discussion—especially at this particular time—! It’s a play about Canadian politics and Canadian values. I love that Joe Clark refuses to compromise his morals, even if it means he’s doomed to fail. It’s a character trait worth celebrating. It also makes politics hilariously funny—and that’s another valuable quality right now! Michael Shamata

This production of 1979 is supported in part by a generous gift from John & Suzanne Stewart.

Ticket Prices
Part of your 2025-26 Season Subscription Package All tickets to this show are offered with Pay-What-You-Can Price Options Single tickets will go on sale in August

The Belfry Experience


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.

B4Play

September 6, 2025 at 11:00 AM

Our live talk show hosted by CBC Radio’s Gregor Craigie and featuring artists from the upcoming show, along with experts from the community, has been designed to provide insight into each Mainstage production.

Talkback Thursday

September 25, 2025 at 9:00 PM

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.

VocalEye

September 28, 2025 at 2:00 PM

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. Touch tours are available following the performance. More information at the Box Office -250-385-6815.

Cast & Crew


Nathan Howe

Joe Clark

Jay Hindle

Actor A

Luisa Jojic

Actor B

Michael Healey

Playwright

Glynis Leyshon

Director

Pam Johnson

Original Set Designer

Carole Klemm

Associate Set Designer

Charlotte Dean

Costume Designer

Kevin Lamotte

Lighting Designer

Tobin Stokes

Composer and Sound Designer

Katerina Sokyrko

Stage Manager

Hannah Abbey

Apprentice Stage Manager

Production Sponsor


Chateau Victoria

Season Sponsors