St. Catharines: “The Bean” by Norm Foster plays in a winery in Ridgeville June 10–21
Thursday, May 14, 2026
A world premiere in a winery (yes, really)! There’s more than just coffee brewing at The Bean. Norm Foster's latest comic spin on man meets woman is being performed inside the unique atmosphere of Sons & Daughters Winery in Ridgeville from June 10-21.
Three performances are already sold out with limited availability for the remainder of the run! Book your tickets today to kick-start your summer with laughter; make The Bean your very first Foster Fix of 2026.
Set against the scenic surroundings of the Niagara Escarpment, this world premiere combines theatre, culture, and local flavour in a way that reflects the distinct character of the Niagara region. While at the show you can enjoy stone-oven pizza, curated charcuterie boards, Fieldnote Coffee, tea, home-made baked treats, and, naturally, a glass of the winery’s own wine.
Dennis (Derek Ritschel) goes to his favourite local coffee shop, 'The Bean', every day after he drops his daughter at school. Cheryl (Kirsten Alter) has just started a new job at the law firm across the street. Beyond a need for caffeine, they have little in common but being single, and the start of their day. Yet Monday to Friday they run into each other. As chat turns to revelation they learn more about one another than they bargained for and an unlikely friendship begins to percolate.
As director Jamie Williams says: "The Bean brings us back to a familiar Norm Foster convention- Man meets Woman. And in true Norm Foster fashion he turns this “meet cute” formula on its head with unexpected conversation that will surprise not only the audience but the characters themselves. A delightfully fun and funny look at chance encounters that over time grow to become comfortably routine and yet demonstrate how impactful meeting over a cup of coffee can really be."
Sons & Daughters offers theatregoers an immersive experience that goes beyond the stage, creating an unforgettable afternoon or evening where storytelling and destination tourism come together. It’s an opportunity to enjoy theatre in a relaxed setting rarely found in traditional theatre venues.
The Foster Festival continues to explore innovative ways to connect our audiences with the region’s unique cultural and culinary offerings. Our partnership with Sons & Daughters Winery reflects the festival’s ongoing commitment to creating memorable experiences that celebrate both artistic excellence and local identity.
We'll see you at the winery!
BUY TICKETS TO THE BEAN NOW at fosterfestival.com.
If you prefer to talk to someone in person, call The Foster Festival Box Office at 1.844.735.4832 x3 (MON-FRI 10am-4pm).