The Chemainus Theatre Festival has unveiled its 2025 season lineup, promising a year filled with heartwarming stories, captivating performances and celebrations.
Three of the five main shows on the schedule are new to the theatre, while two are returning favourites.
The season kicks off with Guys on Ice from March 14 to April 6, a musical comedy set inside an ice-fishing shanty. A press release from the theatre promises that the show is filled with “cheesy cheer that reveals the interiors of two guys’ hearts as they hope for the big one that won’t get away.”
Next, audiences will be swept into the world of Sherlock Holmes in Baskerville, running May 2 to June 1. This adaptation of The Hound of the Baskervilles blends the wit of The 39 Steps, an audience favourite, with the intrigue of Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous detective.
This summer will have Chemainus once again singing “Whoa, Milo! Come on, come on, let's go!” when the curtain goes up on the high-energy show Footloose, the second time Chemainus has staged the popular musical. The beloved rock-and-roll musical about youth, rebellion and a town learning to embrace change runs from June 27 to Aug. 24.
Canadian playwright Kristen Da Silva’s Home to Roost plays from Sept. 26 to Oct. 19, bringing warmth and charm to the stage. Audiences last enjoyed Da Silva’s work in 2024 with Chemainus Theatre’s production of her play Hurry Hard.
Of course, we all know that the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear. That’s what will happen when Elf: The Musical returns to the Chemainus Theatre stage from Nov. 14 to Dec. 21. This show was also a favourite when the theatre staged it all the way back in 2015. It’s a festive delight that follows Buddy’s journey from the North Pole to New York City.
Beyond the stage, the theatre has much more on offer this season including Discover Theatre workshops, cabaret performances, tribute shows and retrospectives. Patrons can also enjoy pre- and post-show dining at the Playbill Dining Room and explore the Gallery Gift Shop’s collection of local art and unique finds.
All in all, it’s a theatrical season of hope, heart and homecomings.
Tickets go on sale Feb. 18. For more information on tickets and showtimes, visit Chemainus Theatre Festival’s website.
