The Historic Roxy Theatre has always held a place in my heart. I can clearly remember the hustle and bustle backstage and onstage when I performed in a production of ‘Oliver’ decades ago. What a rush!
In the years since, I’ve enjoyed many Little Theatre Performances as well as Music and Film festivals on this same stage.
So this spring when the Roxy Theatre announced a community event to showcase the upcoming season, I rounded up some friends who were a little rusty on the local theatre scene and we made our way downtown.
‘Opening The Curtain: OSLT’s 2026/2027 Season’ was a free public event to announce the much-anticipated play bill for the Owen Sound Little Theatre as well as upcoming musical performances and entertainment.
Members and supporters, as well as theatre lovers, live music fans and curious newcomers mingled in the lobby bar and enjoyed a delicious spread provided by The Milk Maid. The room was filled with some of the thespians and musicians that take to the stage every season as well as the familiar faces of retired teachers, old friends and neighbours.
When the cheese and wine were all but gone, Kathleen Murphy, the OSLT Vice president, welcomed the crowd into the theatre (or via livestream) for the main event. “Tonight is all about opening our doors, celebrating our community, and giving a first look at what’s up and coming, including some really exciting updates about the Roxy programming”.
The evening had Theatre Manager Tiffany McMillin introduce a new ‘Music at the Roxy Series – MATRS’, which features a wonderful lineup of Canadian talent and local favourites including Tanglefoot, Mudmen, Sultans of Strings, The Janzen Boys and The Angelique Francis Band. Tickets for MATRS will be available as part of a Flex pass where guests can purchase now and choose shows at a later date.
Membership & Program Coordinator, Lacey Mooney reminded us that the OSLT is a nonprofit organization owned and operated by its volunteers and members, who not are not only backstage and on-stage during productions, but also work front of house as ushers and bar tenders.
Hung behind Mooney was a reminder for why we were all here:
Being a part of the OSLT introduces members of all ages and experience to the magic of theatre in a supportive social and artistically rewarding environment. While the productions are always of the highest standards, theatre is about so much more than the show itself. It builds confidence and self-esteem, challenges an individual’s comfort level and breaks down social barriers.
Finally it was time to announce the lineup of Owen Sound Little Theatre. Words from the President of the OSLT Board of Directors, Maria Canton, were read by Murphy: “each season we work to create a playbill that reflects the power of storytelling. Stories that challenge us, move us and bring us together as a community. It reflects laughter, drama, music and the kinds of moments that remind us why live theatre is so special”.
All four Directors took to the stage to talk about their selection and why they were proud to be putting it on for the community!
And with that, the 2026/2027 showbill will include;
Come From Away, Directed by Kathleen Cassidy
The Heiress, Directed by Terry Burns
Next to Normal, Directed by Aaron Crose
Annie Jr, presented by The Young Company Directed by Carrie Cathrae
What a line up! And all put on by local students and volunteers! The excitement and appreciation from the crowd was contagious! I assure you, many a flex pass were purchased that night!
There are still two shows left to wrap up this season including Agatha Christie’s: Witness to the Prosecution running in April and Shrek: The Musical Jr. running in May.
We are so lucky to have this community run space in the heart of our city. Support local live theatre and music! Join the audience, become a volunteer or get that rush from being up on stage!
Early Bird pricing is available April 15 – May 15 for both the OSLT 2026/27 season and Music At The Roxy Series Flex Passes. Visit the Roxy box office or purchase passes online and learn more about volunteering at roxytheatre.ca
Written by Nicole Stephenson
