Theatre Antigonish Celebrates 50 Years with 2024-2025 Season  

Antigonish, NS – Theatre Antigonish proudly announces its 50th Anniversary Season, The Art of Belonging: 50 Years of Connecting Community.  This landmark year honours the theatre’s legacy as a home for creativity, mentorship, and community expression, showcasing a diverse lineup of performances that highlight its role as both a student and community theatre while deepening its connection with Saint Francis Xavier University. 

 “For 50 years, Theatre Antigonish has brought people together, providing a space for storytelling, community building, and the expression of our shared experiences,” says Andrea Boyd, Artistic Director. “This season honors our past while embracing the future of this beloved institution.” At the heart of the season is Theatre Antigonish’s Mainstage Series, which underscores the theatre’s deep ties to the local community with two plays written by Antigonish artists. These productions hold special significance as part of the 50th-anniversary celebration: 

Hector the Spectre Steals the Show (November 26-30): By Andrea Boyd and Laura Teasdale, this playful and heartwarming production is more than just a show—it’s a tribute to the Theatre itself. The in-house theatre ghost, Hector, is a constant presence at the Bauer Theatre, where he has lingered for 50 years. In this supernatural comedy filled with backstage antics, Hector finally takes center stage, bringing to life the quirks and charm that have made the theatre a beloved home for so many. “This is our love letter to the Bauer Theatre,” Boyd says. “Hector has been here as long as we have, and this show celebrates not only his story but the history, spirit, and community of the theatre.” 

A Belly Full (March 18-22): By Antigonish native Mary-Colin Chisholm and Marcia Kash, this vibrant and touching comedy tells the story of a group of women who join a belly dancing class and find themselves transformed by the power of movement, friendship, and self-discovery. Chisholm, who debuted with Theatre Antigonish 50 years ago, returns with this new play that speaks to the season’s theme of belonging. “It’s an honor to present Mary-Colin’s  fabulous play in our anniversary year.,” Boyd says. “Her play is not only a celebration of women’s stories but also a testament to the healing power of laughter and community, making it a perfect fit for our anniversary season.” 

Both shows reflect the theatre’s deep-rooted connection to Antigonish, the community it serves, and the artists it nurtures. As Boyd notes, “These productions honour our shared history while celebrating the incredible local talent that continues to thrive on our stage.” 

The 2024-2025 season is divided into four distinctive series. In addition to the community-driven Mainstage Series, Festival Antigonish, now in its 37th year, will present its Professional Presentation Series, showcasing diverse professional artists from across the country. Together, these two collaborative companies form a creative theatre hub for all age and experience levels in the region. 

 Festival Antigonish Presentation Series  

A collection of top-tier professional performances, including International Peace Day Concert with Shiretown, Dancing the Seven Teachings  by The Chimera Project Dance Theatre,  Rocky Horror Picture Show ,  David Myles in Concert , and  Josephine  by PKF Productions. Also featuring The First Jew In Canada: A Trans Tale, a partnership with the STFX Office of Human Rights and Equity, exploring identity and transformation. 

Theatre Antigonish Cabaret Series  

An interactive lineup of comedy, music, lectures and community fun, featuring A Night at the Improv!  with Laura & Justin, Christmas Karaoke , Stand-Up Comedy with host Isaac Patton, and The Actor’s Process: A Dialogue with Caleb Marshall. This engaging and spontaneous series in the Green Room Bar will be both playful and enlightening.    

Special Events Series  

Unique, one-night-only performances and celebratory events, including Love Bites: A Valentine’s Concert curated by Ken Kingston, and the 50th Gala Celebration, marking key moments of the 50th Anniversary Season with flair, festivity, and memorable experiences.  In the coming weeks more special anniversary initiatives will be announced including a retrospective Book, Anniversary Exhibit, special tours and more. 

In addition to the season performance lineup, Festival Antigonish Theatre Academy continues to offer enriching classes for all ages, fostering both personal and creative growth. Education is central to much of the companies’ work,  Theatre Antigonish is grateful for its 50-year collaboration with Saint Francis Xavier University, a foundational partner that has supported Theatre Antigonish in providing access, mentorship, and the opportunity to experience the transformative power of theatre in Antigonish.  

Don’t miss out on this extraordinary 24-25 season offering something for everyone! From heartfelt local productions and professional performances to interactive cabaret fun and unique special events, the diverse lineup promises a rich variety of entertainment and thought-provoking dialogue. Join in celebrating community, creativity, and connection throughout this landmark year.

Season Calendar of Events