waiting in the wings

Planning ahead? Here's what's coming up!
 

Educator group bookings for 2025/26 are open! Bookings for next season open on June 4, 2026. You will be able to reserve tickets for your estimated number of students, then make adjustments in fall of 2026 when you have your class lists. Reservations will be processed and seats or waitlist spots allocated in the order recieved. 

For now, check out our show offerings, student matinee times, and topics, and make your plans! We have provided rough run time estimates based on other theatres. Once each show has rehearsed we will have a better idea of their length.
All productions will have performances on weeknights at 7:30 PM, at least one 1:00 matinee, and weekend shows. Some productions will also have performances at 11:30 AM for students only.

MTC tries to provide any applicable content overviews and warnings in advance, but these are subject to change at the Director's discretion during each rehearsal process. Check out the most detailed available recommendations and warnings here. 

 Mainstage Season 25/26 | Warehouse Season 25/26 | Mainstage Season 26/27 | Warehouse Season 26/27
 

---

 

25/26 Mainstage Season

  

MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS

By Agatha Christie
Adapted for the stage by Ken Ludwig
Directed by Kelly Thornton
Jan 14-Feb 7, 2026 / Student Matinee 11:30 Feb 5* waitlisted
 
In the 1930s, detective Hercule Poirot is on a train journey when an unlikeable wealthy American is murdered. As the debonair detective investigates, he encounters a cast of intriguing passengers, including the glamorous Mrs. Hubbard and the enigmatic Princess Dragomiroff. With his unparalleled eye for detail and keen instincts, Poirot uncovers secrets and motives as he seeks the truth behind the murder in this suspenseful tale of deception, revenge and justice. Showcasing the Queen of Crime’s signature twists and turns, and a luxury train onstage, this lighthearted adaptation keeps us guessing until Hercule Poirot delivers his breathtaking verdict.
Topics: Justice, grief, historical, mystery, literary adaptation.
Recommended for grade 7+ (Occasional strong language. Reference to and depictions of murder, reference to suicide, alcohol use. Occasional ethnic stereotypes of the time period, eg someone is “exotic” or “hot-blooded.” Probable use of blood, loud noises, flashing lights, haze.)
Unofficial run time estimate: Approximately 2 hours 20 minutes including intermission.
 
Royal MTC Presents a Crow’s Theatre Production

ROGERS V. ROGERS

Adapted for the stage by Michael Healey
Based on the book by Alexandra Posadzki
Directed by Chris Abraham
Starring Tom Rooney
Feb 18-Mar 14, 2026
 
In a one-person show starring an acclaimed Canadian actor, and by a celebrated Canadian playwright, Rogers v. Rogers examines the merits of fighting back, the cost of ambition, and the complicated legacy of love and defiance in the shadow of power. Telecom tycoon Ted Rogers spent a lifetime turning Canada’s airwaves into money — and a company into a virtual monopoly. Now his son Edward is fighting to take control of the family empire. At the same time, a wily public servant is determined to block a billion-dollar merger. Ambition, defiance and public interest collide in a battle of wills. A David vs. Goliath story for a new age.
Topics: Family drama, business, Canadian story, Canadian playwright, based on true events, new work, solo show.
Recommended for grade 10+. (Strong language, references to alcohol. This content may be appropriate for younger viewers but may not resonate with them.)
Unofficial run time estimate: 95 minutes, no intermission.
 

THE LAST WIFE

By Kate Hennig
Directed by Cherissa Richards
Mar 25-Apr 18, 2026
 
Katherine Parr, a sharp and determined woman, agrees to marry King Henry VIII on her own terms. As she asserts her agency and fights for equal rights for Henry’s daughters, the volatile King struggles for control and authority. These iconic historical figures really existed, but Canadian playwright Hennig reimagines them with modern voices and fresh perspective through her contemporary lens. With sharp dialogue and compelling characters, this is a funny and powerful dissection of patriarchy, sexual politics and women’s rights.
Topics: Gender roles, power, modern retelling of history, Tudors, Canadian playwright.
Recommended for grade 9+ (Strong language, mature themes including death and domestic and sexual violence, suggestive content.)
Unofficial run time estimate: Approximately 2 hours 5 minutes including intermission.
 

RUBABOO – A Métis Cabaret

By Andrea Menard
Music by Andrea Menard & Robert Walsh
Directed by Alanis King
Apr 29-May 23, 2026 / Student Matinee 11:30 May 21
 
Métis singer-songwriter Andrea Menard's feast for the senses blends master storytelling with the beauty of Métis culture through music, dance and visual art. Derived from the Michif word for “leftovers stew” or “big pot,” Rubaboo combines diverse cultural influences and invites us to reflect on the ongoing journey of cultural preservation and pride. Featuring drums, fiddle, and guitar, this grand musical feast includes songs of reconciliation, unity, love and resilience.
Topics: Métis culture and history, lore and legend, sharing culture, resilience, reciprocity, music, Canadian history. 
Recommended for grade 7+ (Occasional crude language, mention of alcohol and alcoholism, death of animals, discussion of residential schools and impacts of abuse – not explicit).
Unofficial run time estimate: Approximately 90 minutes, no intermission.

 

25/26 Warehouse Season

  

HOLLAND

By Trish Cooper
Directed by Suzie Martin
In Partnership with Theatre Projects Manitoba
Feb 4-21, 2025
 
Carrie and Paul are good people with solid friends and great kids. Another constant in their life is Alice, an antagonistic social worker who holds all the cards when it comes to their disabled son. Alice makes promises but keeps few, drowning the couple in paperwork, denying basic services and bewildering them with impossible deadlines. Pushed to the brink, Carrie takes matters into her own hands – in the most outrageous way possible – and goes from doing everything for her family to risking it all. This hilarious madcap adventure is an unflinching look at disability rights and caregiving.
Topics: Advocacy, caregiving, disability rights, parenting, challenging systems, comedy, new work, Canadian playwright, local playwright.
Recommended for grade 10+ (Strong language, suggestive humour and content, theatrical violence. This play is told from the parents’ point of view and as such may not be as relatable to younger teens.)
Unofficial run time estimate: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes including intermission.
 

IN THE SHADOW BEYOND THE PINES

By Rhonda Apetagon
Directed by Jimmy Blais
Mar 11-28, 2026 / Student Matinee 11:30 Mar 25
 
Set in modern times but steeped in a dark and haunting past, this atmospheric ghost story explores the shadows of Indigenous life and lore with a hint of humour. Amid the mysteries of the vast wilderness of northern Manitoba, three young men wrestle with the loss of their friend by reclaiming the cultural practice of lighting a sacred fire. When they realize they’ve forgotten the flashlight and their phones have died, legends and memories are all they have to guide them through the night. Created in the Pimootayowin Creators Circle, this world premiere will draw you in – while making no promises of letting you go.
Topics: Traditions, cultural connection, remembrance, supernatural horror, male friendship, community, new work, Indigenous play, local playwright.
Recommended for grade 9+ (Strong language, reference to suicide, reference to abusive parenting, reference to violence, potentially frightening content. Probable haze or fog.)
Unofficial run time estimate: Unknown, as this is a world premiere! We will update as more information becomes available.
 

26/27 Mainstage Season

CYRANO DE BERGERAC
By Edmond Rostand
Adapted by Jessy Ardern
Directed by Amanda Goldberg
Oct 7-31, 2026 / Student matinees 11:30 Oct 6 & 29
 
A gifted wordsmith and legendary duelist living in the time of the Musketeers, Cyrano de Bergerac disarms with a flick of a sword and his rapier wit. In a world that judges a book by its cover, the warrior-poet with the famously large nose has sworn off finding a lover. Loyal to a fault, Cyrano smothers the sparks of his own attraction to Roxane to woo her on behalf of a fellow soldier. Will he rip off the mask or forever deny his own heart?
Written in verse and showcasing swashbuckling duels, witty repartee and a love triangle for the ages, this fresh adaptation will have us rooting once again for the noble Cyrano.
Topics: Literary adaptation, historical; love, freedom, brotherhood, nature of beauty.
Recommended for grade 9+, PG (some coarse language, sensuality and sexual innuendo, stage violence and death.)
Unofficial run time estimate: 2 hours 30 minutes including intermission.
 
ANNE OF GREEN GABLES - THE MUSICAL
Book by Donald Harron, Music by Norman Campbell
Adapted from the novel by L. M. Montgomery
Directed by Julie Tomaino
Nov 25-Dec 19, 2026 / Student matinee previews 11:30 Nov 23 & 24
 
The heartwarming coming-of-age story of one gregarious orphan from Prince Edward Island, leaping from the pages of Lucy Maud Montgomery’s beloved novel. When siblings Matthew and Marilla Cuthbert attempt to adopt a child to help with their farm, they get much more than they bargained for. While Anne Shirley’s arrival disrupts the quiet lives of Avonlea’s quirky citizens, her wild imagination and unwavering enthusiasm open the hearts of her new family, classmate Diana Barry, and even rival Gilbert Blythe. Anne “with an E” is unstoppable, and sure to delight audiences of all ages.
Topics: Literary adaptation, Canadian classic; family, friendship, imagination, growing up.
Recommended for grades 4+, general audience (accidental intoxication, reference to physical discipline.)
Unofficial run time estimate: Two hours 20 minutes including intermission.
 
INTREPID
By Alex Poch-Goldin
Directed by Kelly Thornton
Jan 13-Feb 6, 2027 / Student matinee 11:30 Feb 4
 
An action-packed spy thriller recounting one of Winnipeg’s greatest heroes, William Stephenson, who became Churchill's spymaster and the inspiration for James Bond. It's 1940 and the fate of the free world depends on a nearly impossible plan to trick the United States into joining World War II and stopping Nazi plans for world domination. Luckily, the British have Stephenson to employ espionage, propaganda and the ageless art of seduction to achieve their goals. 1940s song and dance are woven into an electrifying tale of intrigue, danger and double-crossing.
Topics: Winnipeg connection, historical, WW2, espionage, legacy.
Recommended for grade 9+, PG (occasional strong language, misogyny, sexuality, violence, description of war crimes and Holocaust.)
Unofficial run time estimate: Unknown as this is a world premiere! In the neighbourhood of 2 hours 30 minutes.
 
MY NAME IS LUCY BARTON
By Elizabeth Strout
Adapted by Rona Munro
Directed by Emma Welham
Feb 17-Mar 13, 2026
 
After complications to a routine surgery, Lucy wakes up to find an unexpected visitor at the foot of her bed – her estranged mother. As the days go by, conversations explore the complexities of life, as Lucy attempts to reconcile her impoverished, dysfunctional childhood with her present affluence, and the precarious relationships she has as both a daughter and a mother. Based on a best-selling novel, this play reveals our deepest and most profound bonds of human connection.
Topics: Literary adaptation, solo show; parental relationships, legacy of trauma, reinvention, memory.
Recommended for grade 10+, mature (child abuse, occasional strong language. May be appropriate for younger people but they may find content less relatable.)
Unofficial run time estimate: 90-100 minutes, no intermission.
 
WAITING FOR GODOT
By Samuel Beckett
Directed by Rodrigo Beilfuss
Mar 24-Apr 17, 2027 / Student matinee 11:30 Apr 15
 
Is it possible that two men represent all of humanity as they wait for someone – or something – to give their lives meaning? As Vladimir and Estragon wait for the mysterious “Godot”, they banter about minor complaints like the tightness of their boots, to major questions like the meaning of existence, and host an array of strange visitors. Deeply influential and iconically enigmatic, Samuel Beckett’s comic, absurdist masterpiece asks the simple yet profound question, “What are we doing here?” Royal MTC is thrilled to stage one of the most significant plays of the 20^th century with this revival of Shakespeare in the Ruins’ 2025 production.
Topics: Absurdism; companionship, search for meaning, time, humanity, suffering and dignity, uncertainty.
Recommended for grades 9+, PG (mild language, references to death and suicide, representations of slavery.)
Unofficial run time estimate: 2 hours 35 minutes including intermission.
 
FareWel
By Ian Ross
Directed by Kevin Loring
May 5-29, 2027 / Student matinee 11:30 May 7
There’s a cry for change on Partridge Crop Reserve. The welfare cheques are late – if they’re coming at all – the Chief is pushing his luck in Vegas (again), and a restless desperation has led to rumblings of self-government. There’s a lot at stake and establishing a new system without real change feels like building a house on a crumbling foundation. Can this spirited group of ordinary Joes ditch the fareWel for good and take control of their lives?
Crackling with Ian Ross’ trademark wit and warmth, this dark comedy about reserve life and politics was awarded the 1997 Governor General’s Award for Drama.
Topics: Indigenous content, Indigenous playwright, Canadian play; identity, inequality, agency.
Recommended for grades 10+, PG (strong language, violence, intoxication, misogyny, sexuality.)
Unofficial run time estimate: Two hours 10 minutes including intermission.
 
 

26/27 Warehouse Season

GOBLIN:MACBETH 

Created by Rebecca Northan and Bruce Horak with Ellis Lalonde
Directed by Rebecca Northan
Oct 21-Nov 7, 2026/Student matinees 11:30 Oct 23 & 28
 
When three goblins come across a copy of The Complete Works of William Shakespeare, they decide to take over the stage, choosing Macbeth because it is the bloodiest play they can find. Blending comedy, fantasy and tragedy in an unpredictably interactive and exciting theatrical experience, the goblins present a unique take on a Shakespearean classic – comedic, yet true to the text.
Topics: Shakespeare adaptation; power, ambition, corruption, fate vs free will.
Recommended for grades 9+, PG (strong language, violence, offstage murder, sexual innuendo)
Unofficial run time estimate: 90-100 minutes, no intermission.
  

COMFORT FOOD

By Zorana Sadiq
Directed by Mitchell Cushman
Nov 20-Sec 6 2026 / Student matinee 11:30 Dec 2
              
Bette is a popular cooking show host whose young-mom persona is about to expire – both on TV and in real life. With her climate-conscious son KitKat spending more time in the deep space of the internet,  and her show losing steam, they hatch a plan for him to make a much-anticipated reappearance to boost ratings. What could possibly go wrong when family dysfunction and activism go live on air? This gripping double act features live filming, cooking onstage, and an exploration of online fame.
Topics: Environmentalism, protest, authenticity, family, advocacy, values.
Recommended for grades 9+, PG (Some strong language, realities of climate change may be distressing.)
Unofficial run time estimate: 100 minutes no intermission.
 
MISERY
By William Goldman
Based on the novel by Stephen King
Directed by Ardith Boxall
Jan 27-Feb 13, 2027
 
When famous author Paul Sheldon regains consciousness following a car wreck, he’s bedridden in an isolated home. By a stroke of luck, the woman who saved him is both a nurse and his “number one fan”. But soon, Annie’s mild-mannered veneer wears thin, and Paul realizes his fate is tied to a woman who is obsessively plotting to keep him to herself.
With a mix of horror and humour, this play brings the bestselling novel and hit movie to the stage along with new relevance in our time of parasocial relationships.
Topics: Literary adaptation, thriller; fandom, survival.
Recommended for grades 10+, mature (strong language, stage violence, gore.)
Unofficial run time estimate: 100 minutes no intermission.
 
FIFTEEN DOGS
Based on the novel by André Alexis
Stage adaptation by Marie Farsi
Directed by Haysam Kadri
Mar 3-20, 2027
Greek gods Apollo and Hermes wager that any animal would die unhappy if granted human intelligence. For their experiment, they choose man’s best friend – fifteen of them. After “the change”, the dogs marvel at their gift of language and revel in their newfound mindfulness. But curiosity turns to unrest when clashes over status, freedom and conformity threaten the pack. As the gods meddle, the dogs wrestle with the complications of their new world order, with sometimes hilarious and often devastating consequences. Sit, stay and experience a modern-day fable.
Topics: Apologue/fable; humanity, nature of happiness, language, meaning of love, philosophy.
Recommended for grades 10+, mature (occasional strong language, violence, mention of suicide; potentially distressing content includes animal abuse, violence and deaths.)
Unofficial run time estimate: 2 hours 20 minutes including intermission