It’s hard to believe that what began as a small, pandemic-inspired idea has blossomed into one of Theatre Collingwood’s most cherished traditions! There’s something truly special about Porchside—whether it’s the charming outdoor settings, toting your lawn chair in to take a seat, the sense of community, or the incredible talent in a very intimate setting. Whatever it is, we know it has become a favourite for both our audiences and performers alike.

This year, we’re bringing you our most diverse programming with truly something for everyone. So please share this information with your friends and book early, because spaces are limited.

Special thanks to all our porch owners who generously donate their spaces!

If you are new to Porchside here is what it is all about:

We bring in world-class professional artists who perform incredible shows on porches or patios in Collingwood, or the surrounding region. The festival runs each day from July 1st-24th. Most are ticketed events so you must pre-book. Each space has a performance and also a local visual artist showing their beautiful work. You bring your lawn chair and enjoy a wonderful evening of entertainment in a glorious & intimate setting.

You will notice that we have only a few matinees this year. The truth is that most yards are just too hot in the afternoon in July. The 7pm evening time is perfect. Shows last about 1 hour and you are home before it gets too dark. UNLESS you want to visit one of our DINE & PLAY establishments who offer special deals with your Theatre Collingwood tickets

From July 1st to 24th, Collingwood will come alive with music, storytelling, and celebration. The festival includes:

14 different shows, which means 14 amazing “porches”

25 performances in total

40+ talented performers

So, gather your friends, pack your lawn chairs, grab your tickets, and get ready to experience the magic of the Theatre Collingwood Porchside Festival 2025! We can’t wait to see you there!

The 2025 Porchside Passport

You may purchase individual tickets to shows or save by buying a passport to everything! Porchside Festival Passport includes one ticket to each of Theatre Collingwood's 2025 Porchside Festival Shows!

Choose your dates, choose your times, and experience a summer of music, theatre, and fun for just $265.00! Enjoy 11 fabulous shows with a 20% savings plus the 2 July 1st shows, for a total of 13 Performances!

BYOC: Bring Your Own Chair

PURCHASE FESTIVAL PASSPORT

THEATRE COLLINGWOOD 2025 PORCHSIDE FESTIVAL

SHOW DESCRIPTIONS

CHRIS MCKHOOL & Friends From THE SULTANS OF STRING

2 Family-Friendly FREE musical performances

JULY 1

Location: Collingwood Shipyards Amphitheatre, 2 N Maple St, Collingwood

Celebrate Canada Day with Chris McKhool, award-winning violinist and leader of Sultans of String, as he brings two interactive, family-friendly performances to Collingwood! Joined by Kevin Laliberte (guitar) and Drew Birston (bass), these high-energy shows are packed with music, fun, and learning—perfect for kids and adults alike!

🎻 1:00 PM – Fiddlefire!

Get ready to dance, clap, and sing along! This lively show introduces kids to jazz, blues, classical, East Coast fiddling, and world music, with plenty of audience participation.

🌎 3:00 PM – Earth, Seas & Air

With a mix of music and environmental education, Chris inspires young audiences to explore global connections to forests, water, and wildlife—all while playing instruments from around the world!

Join us for a joyful Canada Day celebration filled with music, laughter, and inspiration!

CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’ with Deb Fitzsimmons & Friends

Music from the 60s & 70s

JULY 2 @ 7pm & July 3 @ 7pm

Location: 26 Walnut Dr., Wasaga Beach

Step back in time and relive the golden era of the California music scene with California Dreamin’ ! This nostalgic musical journey celebrates the legendary harmonies and timeless hits that shaped the 1960s and 1970s.

Featuring the unforgettable sounds of The Beach Boys, The Mamas & The Papas, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, and more, this revue captures the spirit of a generation through folk, rock, and pop classics. With stunning vocal performances by Deb Fitzsimmons, Alison McLeod, and Ian Raeburn-Gibson, audiences will be transported to an era of free-spirited music and sun-soaked melodies.

Whether you’re reminiscing about your favorite songs or discovering them for the first time, California Dreamin’ is a feel-good celebration of harmony, culture, and the California dream. Don’t miss this magical night of music that will have you singing along from start to finish!

COUNTRY CRUSH with GRAHAM SCOTT FLEMING

Country & Pop Music

JULY 4 & 5

7pm

Location: 450 Golf Course Rd., Wasaga Beach

Graham Scott Fleming, accompanied by Jessie T, is so thrilled to be bringing his show to the Theatre Collingwood 2025 Porchside Festival. This is Graham’s residency show ‘Country Crush’ performed weekly in Toronto, but now will come to a backyard porch near you! From working in NYC on Broadway as an actor, performing at the Tony Awards, and then opening for Keith Urban at Canada's Largest Music Festival ‘Boots and hearts’, Graham has many stories to tell and songs to sing. Sit back, relax and enjoy some great harmonies, original music, and some classic and unique covers.

Hailing from Elmvale, Graham starred as Charlie in Kinky Boots in Toronto and regional productions of the musical across the country. Other credits include the Broadway revival of Miss Saigon, the national tour of Hair, and productions of My Very Own British Invasion, Aladdin, RENT, Smokey Joe's Café, and more. Hallmark Christmas fans may also know Fleming from the 2016 movie, Love You Like Christmas. He went from small-town stages to starring on Broadway, and now he's making waves in country music. His smooth soulful voice and heartfelt storytelling bring a raw, emotional energy to every performance.

Jessie T blends her country roots with a pop-rock edge. A 2024 CMA Ontario nominee and multi-award-winning artist, she has shared the stage with country greats like Dallas Smith and James Barker Band. Her dynamic performances and powerhouse vocals have made her a festival favorite across Ontario.

Together, Graham and Jessie promise an electrifying evening filled with passion, powerhouse vocals, and songs that will have you singing along all night. Don't miss this one-of-a-kind musical experience!

MELON JIMENEZ & LARA WONG

Instrumental Flamenco Music

JULY 6 @ 7pm & July 7 @ 7pm

Location: 234 Third St., Collingwood

Experience the soul-stirring fusion of flamenco, jazz, and Indian rhythms with Melon Jimenez & Lara Wong, a groundbreaking instrumental duo from Spain. Nominated for a 2025 Juno Award (Instrumental Album of the Year), these internationally acclaimed artists bring a mesmerizing blend of tradition and innovation to the stage.

Flutist Lara Wong, the first foreigner to win the prestigious “Filón” award at the Festival Cante de las Minas, seamlessly intertwines the expressive sounds of the bansuri with the fiery spirit of flamenco. Guitarist Melón Jiménez, a sought-after collaborator with legends like Enrique Morente and Anoushka Shankar, explores the rich intersections of flamenco and world music.

Since their fateful first performance in Madrid in 2018, this duo has captivated audiences across Europe, Asia, and North America. Now, they bring their transformative artistry to Collingwood for an unforgettable evening of passion, rhythm, and virtuosity.

SHIPYARD KITCHEN PARTY

East Coast Music

JULY 8 @ 7pm & July 9 @ 7pm

Location: 17 Georgian Manor Dr., Collingwood

Get ready for an unforgettable night of music, laughter, and storytelling with Shipyard Kitchen Party! Hailed as Great Big Sea after a few drams with Stan Rogers, or Gordon Lightfoot meets Whose Line Is It Anyway?, this dynamic group delivers high-energy performances that blend East Coast traditional tunes with heartfelt Canadian stories.

With deep roots in Scotland, Newfoundland, and Georgian Bay, Shipyard Kitchen Party brings together rich harmonies, traditional instrumentation, and a playful sense of humour. Their show will have you clapping, singing along, and maybe even shedding a tear—because when they tell a story, they make it yours.

Featuring John Eaton (Guitar, Bass, Mandolin, Vocals), Sacha Law (Bass, Vocals), and Jason Murphy (Bodhran, Vocals), this trio promises an evening filled with music, history, and an undeniable sense of Canadian pride. Don’t miss out—come join the party!

CRAIG ASHTON - The Tenors of Stage and Screen

Opera, Musical Theatre & Pop

JULY 11 @ 7pm & July 12 @ 7pm

Location: Craigleith Manor B & B, 9 Craigleith Court, Collingwood

Experience an unforgettable evening of music inspired by the great tenors of stage and screen. Back by popular demand, Collingwood’s own Craig Ashton returns to the picturesque gardens of Craigleith Manor to celebrate the venue’s 10th anniversary with a mesmerizing performance.

With his powerful voice and extraordinary versatility, Craig will transport audiences through a stunning repertoire spanning opera, Broadway, and film, accompanied by the brilliant pianist Anne Barnshaw. A graduate of the Canadian Opera Company’s training program, Craig has graced prestigious stages worldwide and is currently touring Ontario with the beloved Tom Thomson’s Wake.

A proud Collingwood resident, Craig and his husband own and operate Craigleith Manor and Collingwood Flowers. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to enjoy world-class music in an intimate, enchanting setting—a perfect summer evening under the stars!

BOOMERANG

Soul/R&B/Brass

July 13 @ 7pm & July 14 @ 7pm

Location: 152 Bartlett Blvd., Collingwood

Step into a time machine with Boomerang and experience the best of vintage soul and R&B music. This dynamic eight-piece horn band brings classic hits from artists like Stevie Wonder, Van Morrison, and Wilson Pickett back to life, energizing audiences with powerful brass, infectious rhythms, and unforgettable melodies. With a seasoned lineup of musicians who’ve shared stages with renowned artists, Boomerang’s live performances are a celebration of the golden era of soul music.

Lead singer Gary Diggins, hailing from the Detroit River area, channels the spirit of soul music that once filled the airwaves of the Motor City. The band’s horn section adds depth and energy, while the rhythm section honors the legendary sounds of Motown and Stax Records. Boomerang's infectious energy and timeless music will have you on your feet, dancing and singing along to the soulful classics that have influenced generations. Don't miss this unforgettable night of music!

THE PAIRS

Roots / Folk-Pop

JULY 15 @ 7pm & July 16 @ 7pm

Location: The Somewhere Inn-128 St. Paul St., Collingwood

The Pairs—Renée Coughlin, Noelle Frances Coughlin, and Hillary Watson—are a dynamic trio that blends contemporary roots, folk-pop, and powerful storytelling through their unique vocal harmonies. With three distinct lead singer/songwriters, they offer an unforgettable musical experience, sharing songs filled with hope, hilarity, and hardship. Their sibling-like chemistry and infectious energy connect them instantly to their audience, creating an intimate and engaging atmosphere. As classically trained vocalists, The Pairs weave intricate three-part harmonies and honest, heartfelt lyrics to create music that resonates deeply with listeners. Their down-to-earth presence and humorous banter make every performance feel like a conversation among friends.

An internationally touring band, The Pairs recently won "Song of the Year" at the 2024 Ontario Folk Music Awards for their track "Annie’s Daughter" and are nominated for "Recording Artist of the Year." They will release their highly anticipated fourth studio album in spring 2025, continuing to enchant audiences with their distinctive sound.

Essays of Light - David Stones

Spoken Word with Music

JULY 18 @ 2pm and 7pm

With David Stones & Kelly Walker

Location: 60 Birch Street, Collingwood

Step into a world of poetry and music with Essays of Light, an evocative and immersive performance that explores life’s deepest emotions—loss, longing, and love. Featuring award-winning poet David Stones and renowned musician Kelly Walker, this intimate production blends spoken word with soul-stirring music, creating an unforgettable journey through the human experience.

David brings his poetry to life through captivating narration, both acapella and accompanied by Kelly’s masterful piano stylings. Kelly, a celebrated composer and performer, intertwines David’s verse with his own musical adaptations, alongside selections from his beloved Gershwin and Sondheim repertoire.

Hailed as “transformative” and “utterly spellbinding” by audiences, Essays of Light has graced cafes, wineries, dinner clubs, and theatres across Ontario. Thought-provoking, accessible, and deeply moving, this one-of-a-kind performance promises an evening of artistry that speaks to the heart and soul. Don’t miss this extraordinary fusion of poetry and music.

IN HARMONY With Rachel Delduca & Eva Petris

1 990+Popular Music-Millennial Mixtape

JULY 19 @ 7pm

& July 20 @7pm

Location: Katherine’s Chateau, 243 Ste. Marie St., Collingwood

Get ready for the ultimate throwback as powerhouse vocalists Rachel Delduca and Eva Petris—aka In Harmony—take you on a musical journey through the best pop anthems of the ’90s and 2000s! A Millennial Mixtape is a high-energy, nostalgia-packed concert celebrating the golden era of boy bands, pop princesses, and R&B classics.

From the harmonies of NSYNC and Backstreet Boys to the anthems of the Spice Girls and the ballads of Enrique Iglesias, this show delivers nonstop hits with stunning vocals and dynamic stage presence. With their musical theatre roots and infectious energy, Rachel and Eva will have you singing, dancing, and maybe even remembering those iconic dance moves!

So grab your butterfly clips, throw on your best ’90s fit, and join us for a night that’s all that—and a bag of chips! Don’t miss this unforgettable, feel-good musical experience!

Enhance your evening with a Porchside Picnic Basket, available for order through Theatre Collingwood for this show.

Chairs will be provided for this event. No need to bring your lawn chair. Ask about the Porchside Picnic Baskets available at Katherine’s Chateau for this show. Available with advance purchase only. $25 + tax.

Saúl Torres Band

Mexican Latín Music

JULY 21 @ 7pm

& July 22 @ 7pm

Location: 117 Oak St., Collingwood

Experience the electrifying sound of Saúl Torres, one of the most unique talents in Latin rock today. Known for his ability to blend Latin rhythms with funk, rock, and flamenco, Saúl has carved a distinctive niche in the music world. With groundbreaking albums released with his Toronto-based band, Dirty Maria, and his solo work, Saúl has demonstrated impressive growth as both a composer and performer, constantly experimenting with new sounds and textures. His voice is a captivating blend of artistry and passion, drawing audiences into his dynamic performances.

As a solo artist, Saúl brings the best of Latin rock to the Canadian stage, offering a musical journey that fuses traditional Latin influences with contemporary energy. His genre-defying style, combined with his infectious energy, creates an unforgettable live experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness Saúl Torres live—his performance promises to be a celebration of Latin culture and modern rock.

Strings In Harmony with Hannah & Nathan

Fiddle & Banjo Folk Music

JULY 23 @ 7pm

& July 24 @ 7pm

Location: 137 Grand Cypress Ln., The Blue Mountains

Step into the heart of southern Appalachia with Hannah & Nathan, an award-winning folk duo that brings the timeless sounds of fiddle and banjo to life. With pristine vocal harmonies and a driving pulse of traditional instruments, they weave a musical tapestry of classic songs, fiddle tunes, and original compositions inspired by their deep love for old-time music.

Hannah Shira Naiman and Nathan Smith are accomplished songwriters and multi-instrumentalists, each with a strong presence in Canada’s folk scene. Hannah, a recipient of the Canadian Folk Music Award for Traditional Singer of the Year, and Nathan, awarded Composer of the Year with Vinta, have spent over a decade perfecting their craft. Their collaboration began with double-bill performances in 2022, where Hannah’s claw hammer banjo and Nathan’s fiddle and guitar playing meshed beautifully. But it’s their undeniable strength in airtight vocal harmonies and lighthearted stage presence that truly sets them apart. Join them for a joyful celebration of folk music!

Visit our website at theatrecollingwood.ca.