Theatre aficionados, live music fanatics, and self-proclaimed sleuths, get ready to be entertained this season in Orillia and Lake Country!
Winter entertainment doesn’t stop with the snow hills, here’s what’s coming to the stage – both large-scale and interactive – in Orillia this season.
Meredith Willson’s The Music Man Presented by St. Paul’s Orillia
Meredith Willson’s The Music Man follows fast-talking traveling salesman, Harold Hill, as he cons the people of River City, Iowa, into buying instruments and uniforms for a boys’ band that he vows to organize – this, despite the fact that he doesn’t know a trombone from a treble clef. His plans to skip town with the cash are foiled when he falls for Marian, the librarian, who transforms him into a respectable citizen by curtain’s fall.
Staged within the beautifully restored St. Paul’s Centre, this impressive local theatre troupe promises to bring new life to this beloved classic. Prepare to laugh, tear up, and sing along; there’s no question as to why this powerhouse musical has lasted for more than half a century on the stage!
The Music Man will be live in Orillia from January 24 to 28. Adult tickets are just $30, while senior and youth tickets run for $20. Reserve yours now.
Mariposa Arts Theatre Presents: The Play That Goes Wrong
Murder! Mystery! Mayhem!
Welcome to opening night of the Cornley University Drama Society’s newest production, The Murder at Haversham Manor, where things are quickly going from bad to utterly disastrous. This 1920s whodunit has everything you never wanted in a show – “an unconscious leading lady, a corpse that can’t play dead, and actors who trip over everything (including their lines). Nevertheless, the accident-prone thespians battle against all odds to make it through to their final curtain call, with hilarious consequences!
Part Monty Python, part Sherlock Holmes, Olivier Award winning comedy is a global phenomenon that’s guaranteed to leave you aching with laughter! This production is brought to you by Mariposa Arts Theatre, Orillia’s longstanding, wickedly-entertaining theatre troupe known for their sell-out runs of Chicago and Richard O’Brien’s Rocky Horror Show.
Running from February 8 to 18 at the Orillia Opera House, this show is an absolute must-add to your 2024 entertainment lineup. Tickets are just $30 and can be purchased now on the Orillia Opera House website.
An Evening of Blues and Gospel XII
February marks the return of Mariposa in Concert’s wildly popular ‘An Evening of Blues & Gospel’ at the Orillia Opera House, winter’s largest music event. Featuring an incredible lineup of all-star vocalists and musicians assembled, arranged, and directed by JUNO award winning producer, Lance Anderson, An Evening of Blues and Gospel is a music celebration like no other.
Seven-time Maple Blues award winner Kenny (Blues Boss) Wayne will be headlining, along with musician Jordan John and legendary Rock and Roll Hall of Famer bassist Prakash John. Local Blues favourite Ronnie Douglas and Toronto-based pianist Michael Shand will also be featured.
This show takes place February 3rd at the Orillia Opera House. Tickets are selling out fast, reserve yours now while you can at OrilliaOperaHouse.ca.
Grape & Olive Bistro’s Midnight at the Masquerade
Calling all master sleuths! An unforgettable evening of suspense, intrigue, and gourmet delights awaits at Midnight at the Masquerade this February 10. You’re invited to indulge in a 3-course dining experience at the Grape & Olive Bistro, curated by Chef Michael, before aiding in solving a most mysterious and thrilling murder on the premises!
Don’t miss out on this thrilling event that promises an evening of laughter, delicious food, and a chance to channel your inner detective! Call now to reserve your tickets, 705-325-9511.
Black in Canada presented by Arts Orillia
B.I.C. by award winning Choreographer Shameka Blake brings attention to the overlooked histories of blackness and black people in Canada. In dance, song, and spoken word, the show explores key issues and debates that expose the truth about oppression, resistance, and resilience. B.I.C. focuses on the cultural experiences of black Canadians beginning from slavery to present day. Performed by, Artists In Motion, B.I.C challenges students and teachers to reimagine black cultures within the Canadian context and the black diaspora worldwide.
See this incredible performance February 20st and 21st at the Orillia Opera House Studio Theatre. Learn more and buy tickets at artsorillia.ca
Article headline photography by Deb Halbot.
Extend Your Stay in Orillia
LEARN MORE
Stay up-to-date, connect with us!
Facebook: @OrilliaLakeCountry
Instagram: @OrilliaLakeCountry