The Chemainus Theatre Festival is hoping for an encore, following the very success 2025 season.
A major Chemainus attraction since its opening in 1993, the Theatre suffered through two dark years as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, but the turnaround is well underway and Theatre management is expecting another strong year in 2026.
“We’re absolutely thrilled to announce our 2026 season,” says artistic director Mark DuMez as the Theatre unveils a lineup that promises a mix of exciting stories, intriguing mysteries and theatrical delights.
“This year’s lineup is a dynamic blend of musicals, comedies, and literary adaptations set in captivating locales and bursting with vitality,” DuMez adds.
“We launch the season close to home with a fresh, contemporary take on Godspell as a spirited ensemble brings parables, beatitudes, and playful wisdom to life in a story of self-giving and joy.”
Godspell was a hit musical of the early 1970s that originated off-Broadway in New York and has featured performances around the globe ever since.
Godspell opens February 20 and runs until the end of March.
Next up will be The Ladies Foursome, a witty and candid comedy from Norm Foster, one of Canada’s most celebrated playwrights. It’s a heartfelt exploration of friendship, secrets, and the game of life — all played out on the fairway.
The Ladies Foursome opens on April 17 for a one-month run.
“Summer heats up on the French Riviera with Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, a cheeky, high-energy musical packed with snappy songs, slick cons, and dazzling dance,” DuMez says.
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels opens on June 12 and runs until August 23.
“Then we head to the mountains for Peril in the Alps, a thrilling Agatha Christie mystery full of twists, turns, and theatrical sleight-of-hand that runs from Sept. 25 to Oct. 25. Meet multiple characters in a playfully gripping story as we sleuth who did it?
“You’ll have to come and see,” suggests DuMez.
The Christmas season production at the Chemainus Theatre is always a spectacular event and 2026 will carry on the tradition that has delighted audiences for three decades.
“We wrap up the year in England with The Wickhams: Christmas at Pemberley, a charming holiday sequel to Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice.
“Whether you caught the 2024 sellout or are new to the Bennet sisters’ world, this drama in the servants’ downstairs quarters is a festive treat where classic wit meets modern insight,” DuMez says.
Five-show packages start at $240 and ticket subscriptions offer the best savings, guaranteed seats at the best price, unlimited free exchanges, discounts on additional tickets. Ticket subscriptions also offer discounts in the Gallery Gift Shop and early access to special events at the Theatre.
Single tickets go on sale January 6.
Visit chemainustheatrefestival.ca or call the box office at 1-800-565-7738.