Begin your night at the theatre by exploring a component of the production you are about to see! Subscribe to our Pre-Show Chat evening at the John Hirsch Theatre (Series 17E) for an opportunity to learn more about our productions through pre-show conversations with local theatre professionals and special guests from our community. Each session is planned with that evening’s performance in mind. Past Pre-Show Chats have featured a variety of Royal MTC staff, local artists, academic experts, and more! Pre-Show Chats are free with your ticket! The half-hour session begins at 6:30pm. Following the presentation, the lobby and bar will be open, so you can relax and enjoy a beverage before the performance begins at 7:30pm. All speakers listed below are subject to change – updates will be made as promptly as possible. PRE-SHOW CHATS:
October 30, 2025 (Life of Pi): Shawn Kettner on the art of puppetry
December 11, 2025 (Elf – The Musical): Rebekah Jones, assistant director-choreographer of Elf – The Musical
January 29, 2026 (Murder on the Orient Express): Head scenic artist Carla Schroeder
March 5, 2026 (Rogers v. Rogers): Kelly Thornton, Royal MTC Artistic Director
April 9, 2026 (The Last Wife): Head of Wardrobe Jackie Van Winkle
May 14, 2026 (Rubaboo – A Métis Cabaret): Sean McManus, Executive Director of Manitoba Chamber Orchestra, and Brandi Vezina, award-winning Métis singer/songwriter