Toronto: What The Festival announces a second wave of programming
Monday, September 14, 2026
What The Festival, an annual celebration of all things Drag, Clown and Puppetry, is proud to announce the second wave of programming for their third annual festival taking place September 24-27, 2026 in Youngplace at Sweet Action Theatre, Social Arts Studio Space, and Small World Music Centre in Toronto.
What The Festival is proud to host a day of programming with Jamie Shannon, the co-creator of the cult favourites Nanalan’ and Mr. Meaty, on September 26. WTF will host two exclusive opportunities including It's Alive! A Puppeteering and Character Workshop for puppeteers of all levels, and Adventures in Puppetry with Jamie Shannon, a free community discussion exploring highlights from Jamie’s extensive career.
Hosted by Harold the Sasquatch (Bobby Knauff), the Strange Maker Showcase on September 24 is what WTF is all about - keeping it weird, wild and wonderful! Enjoy a variety of Clown, Puppetry, Drag and Burlesque acts from some of Toronto's most imaginative strange-makers such as Alien Toronto, CHR1S-L1Z, Mark Terrett, Honeyball Puppetry (Robin Polfuss & Chae Aitchison), Ruy Nieves, She-wee Herman, Shishitzu (Tiffany Kwan), and Sweets.
On September 26 What The Festival will present their first-ever WHAT THE FABULOUS Cabaret, hosted by Dank Sinatra. A variety of Drag and Burlesque acts including Herbie Hind, Hot Honey Ham, Kuya Atay, Marzipan, Nonna Gina (Christine Moynihan), Princess Sparkle Penny, Randy Boots, and Sizzle Disco will display their unique approach to being fabulous.
The previously announced Featured Shows for What The Festival are Hansal and Geetal by Two2Mango, Bubkus by Jesse Buck, and Drag Me To The Opera with Aida Cupcake.
What The Festival is dedicated to the promotion, production and presentation of Toronto’s best in Drag, Clown and Puppetry. We are committed to creating a space for artists to play, audiences to laugh and the community to celebrate. The 2026 festival is lead by: Alicia DiStefano - Executive Director; Jenny Serwylo - Associate Producer; Justin Miller - Artistic Consultant; Alexander Mantia - Puppetry Community Liaison; Lucas Irving - Drag Community Liaison; and Damien Nelson - Marketing and Publicity Coordinator.
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What The Festival
September 24-27, 2026
Youngplace, 180 Shaw Street
$30 single ticket
$75 Three Shows Pass, $110 Five Show Pass
Passes Available for a Limited Time