Theatre by the Bay’s 25th anniversary season continues this August with two major productions celebrating professional theatre, community partnership and the joy of live performance in Barrie and beyond.

Theatre by the Bay’s Main Company production of Forever Plaid, presented by Sandra Ramos & Associates Private Wealth Management, will run August 11–19, 2026 at the Gravenhurst Opera House, followed by performances at Five Points Theatre in Barrie from August 21–29, 2026. The company’s Young Company production of Treasure Island: The Pirate Musical, presented by Niche Bakers and PIE, will run August 19–29, 2026 at Five Points Theatre, offering a swashbuckling pirate musical adventure for families and young audiences.

Together, the two productions reflect Theatre by the Bay’s commitment to creating professional, enjoyable theatre while also developing the next generation of local artists.

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Forever Plaid

Main Company Production

A beloved musical comedy packed with close harmonies, classic songs, and feel-good humour, Forever Plaid tells the story of four young singers who get one final chance to perform the concert of their dreams. Full of charm, heart, and unforgettable music, the production is an uplifting night out for audiences of all ages.

The 2026 production is directed by Dave Campbell, with Rosalind Mills as Musical Director, Tim Webb as Set Designer, and Jeff Braunstein as Stage Manager. Together, the creative and production team brings significant professional experience, musical precision, and theatrical imagination to this timeless production.

The Forever Plaid cast features professional performers with credits from major stages, tours, and screen projects across Ontario and Canada:

Caulin Moore as Francis — whose credits include We Will Rock You: The North American Tour.

Roberto Sapienza as Sparky — who previously performed in Forever Plaid at the Avalon Theatre in Niagara Falls.

Damien Broomes as Trudge — whose credits include Disney’s The Lion King.

John C. Malcolm as Jinx — whose credits include Theatre Passe Muraille and film/television projects including Accused, Clarice, The Christmas Calendar and American Gods.

Together, the cast brings a strong professional theatre pedigree to Theatre by the Bay’s 25th anniversary season, with experience connected to major musical theatre, regional theatre, national touring productions, and screen work.

Forever Plaid is proudly supported by Presenting Sponsor Sandra Ramos & Associates Private Wealth Management.

“We are proud to support Theatre by the Bay and its 25th anniversary season,” said Sandra Ramos, Presenting Sponsor of Forever Plaid. “Live theatre has the power to bring people together, create shared memories, and strengthen the cultural life of our community. Forever Plaid is the perfect kind of production to celebrate that spirit — joyful, entertaining, and full of heart.”

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Treasure Island – The Pirate Musical

Young Company Production

Theatre by the Bay’s Young Company returns with Treasure Island, a pirate musical adventure designed for families, children, and the young at heart. Filled with treasure maps, daring characters, and high-energy storytelling, the production gives young performers the opportunity to train, rehearse, and perform in a professional theatre environment.

The production is directed by Tom Ketchum and Larissa Mair, with Carla Tucker as Choreographer. The Young Company production brings together mentorship, movement, storytelling, and ensemble work in a vibrant theatrical experience for young performers and audiences alike.

Treasure Island is proudly supported by Presenting Sponsors Niche Bakers and PIE Restaurant, whose commitment helps make professional theatre experiences more accessible for families, children, and young performers in the community.

“The Young Company has always been about more than putting on a show,” said Larissa Mair, Co-Director of Treasure Island and Co-Founder of Theatre by the Bay. “It is about mentorship, confidence, discipline, imagination, and giving young people the experience of working inside a professional theatre process. Treasure Island is a wonderful vehicle for that — it is adventurous, accessible, and full of opportunities for young artists to shine.”

A 25th Anniversary Season Built on Community

Theatre by the Bay’s 2026 season marks a major milestone for the company as it celebrates 25 years of professional theatre in Barrie. Through its Main Company, Young Company, festival programming, mentorship initiatives, and community partnerships, the organization continues to expand its role as a cultural anchor in Simcoe County.

“This season is really about momentum,” said Glenn Coulson, Executive Producer of Theatre by the Bay. “With Forever Plaid, we have a Main Company production that is joyful, polished, and incredibly accessible. With Treasure Island, we are investing in young performers and families. That combination speaks directly to who Theatre by the Bay is — professional theatre, community connection, and a belief that Barrie deserves excellent theatre right here at home.”

Coulson added that the support of sponsors, donors, audiences, and community partners is critical to the company’s continued growth.

“We are grateful to the sponsors and partners who are helping make this season possible,” said Coulson. “Their investment helps us put artists to work, welcome audiences into the theatre, and create experiences that build pride in our community.”

Performance Information:

FOREVER PLAID

Main Company Production

Gravenhurst Opera House

August 11–19, 2026

Five Points Theatre, Barrie

August 21–29, 2026

Tickets: $45 including fees

theatrebythebay

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TREASURE ISLAND – The Pirate Musical

Young Company Production

Five Points Theatre, Barrie

August 19–29, 2026

Tickets: $15 including fees

Family 4-Pack: $50 including fees

theatrebythebay.com