The Chemainus Theatre Festival’s newly announced 2025 season features a mix of exciting new productions and beloved returning favourites. Artistic Director Mark DuMez shared his insights on the lineup, which promises another memorable season of theatre.
The season opened with Guys on Ice from March 14 to April 6, a musical comedy set inside an ice-fishing shanty. DuMez describes it as “cheesy cheer” while exploring the camaraderie of two fishermen hoping for a big catch. With playful song titles like 'Ode to a Snowmobile Suit' and 'The One That Got Away', this show is sure to entertain.
Next up comes Baskerville, running from May 2 to June 1. A comedic adaptation of The Hound of the Baskervilles, this production injects rapid-fire humour into Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous Sherlock Holmes mystery. Five actors take on more than 40 characters, ensuring lightning-fast costume changes and plenty of comedic chaos.
The summer slot features Footloose, running from June 27 to Aug. 24. Last staged in 2016, its return is highly anticipated.
"Footloose is a fantastic story, and we’re certainly glad to have a new and exciting version on the boards this year," said DuMez. "The peppy '80s music keeps the show moving, and the relationships between young and old, as well as forward-thinking and backward-looking folks in a small town, help us to examine our own fears and breakthroughs."
Kristen Da Silva’s Home to Roost follows from Sept. 26 to Oct. 19. The play tells the story of sisters Glenda and Suzanne as they navigate retirement, sell homemade jam and cherish visits from Suzanne’s daughter, Beth. Their bond is tested and strengthened in a story that blends laughter with heartfelt moments.
"She’s one of the funniest writers I’ve read in recent years," said DuMez. "This show has very strong female characters who shed light on sisterhood and kindness."
Closing the season is Elf: The Musical, running from Nov. 14 to Dec. 21. While previously staged at Chemainus Theatre, this year’s production will bring a fresh new take.
Based on the 2003 film, Elf follows Buddy, a human raised as an elf who travels to New York City to find his biological father and spread Christmas cheer along the way.
DuMez is excited to revisit this musical and bring a new vision to the stage while capturing the heart and humour that made it a favourite the first time around.
"This will be a fresh, reimagined production of one of the most popular holiday shows we have ever done," DuMez said.
Tickets for the 2025 season are on sale now. For more information, visit the Chemainus Theatre Festival website.
