Stage Door News
Stage Door News
Toronto, ON – The Next Stage Theatre Festival was created by the Toronto Fringe seven years ago to give Fringe artists the opportunity to take their work to the next level. This mandate has never been more apparent than at the 2014 festival, where Fringe artists and veteran theatre professionals are collaborating like never before on some of the most buzz-worthy shows in Toronto.
And the results are tangible – from the first day of the festival, shows have been selling out. Audiences are flocking to Factory Theatre to catch their favourite Shaw, Stratford and Broadway stars in collaboration with some of the hottest emerging talent in the city.
Spotlight on: Adam Brazier
In A Misfortune at the Next Stage Theatre Festival
This veteran musical theatre performer, known for various Broadway performances (Into the Woods, The Woman in White) and originating the role of Sky in the Toronto production of Mama Mia, joined the cast of A Misfortune because he was excited by the opportunity to support new work. Brazier said recently, "It is because of festivals like Next Stage that new works have a chance to survive and thrive in our community. I was eager to get involved with A Misfortune as I have been an admirer of composer Scott Christian for several years now. His is a voice in theatre that needs to be heard."
Spotlight on: Kate Hennig
In Rifles at the Next Stage Theatre Festival
A Stratford and Shaw Festival regular, Hennig gives a powerhouse performance in this new play by Governor General’s Award-winning playwright Nicolas Billon. She plays a grieving mother struggling to keep her sons away from the front during the Spanish Civil War. Her piercing, grounded performance is a must-see at this Festival. When asked why she decided to be part of this Next Stage production, she said she was excited to “get on board with some of Toronto's most adventurous theatre-makers, such as Michael Wheeler, Aislinn Rose, Nicolas Billon. Need I say more?”
The 7th Annual Next Stage Theatre Festival
Presented by Toronto Fringe
12 days of the best indie theatre in Canada
January 8 – 19th at Factory Theatre, 125 Bathurst St.
Tickets: www.fringetoronto.com or 416-966-1062 / Price: $10-$15
Download digital program book here and read all show listings here
Photo: Wade Bogert O’Brien (Lyrics), Scott Christen (Music), Kevin Michael Shea (Book/Lyrics) – A Misfortune.
2014-01-10
Toronto: Stratford and Broadway stars shine at the 2014 Next Stage Theatre Festival