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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
APRIL 9, 2026
County Stage Company Announces 2026 Season: Heart, Hope & Humanity. A summer of musical theatre, award-winning Canadian drama, and imaginative outdoor performance in Prince Edward County. PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY, ON — County Stage Company has announced its 2026 season, inviting audiences to experience a summer of theatre across some of Prince Edward County’s most distinctive venues. The announcement comes as Prince Edward County gains international recognition as a cultural destination. Travel magazine Condé Nast Traveler recently named the County one of the Best Places to Go in 2026 — the only Canadian destination on the global list. The season, titled Heart, Hope & Humanity, brings together contemporary musical theatre, award-winning Canadian drama, and inventive ensemble storytelling, performed in rotating repertory by one professional company of artists living and working in the County throughout the summer. Running June 19 – August 14, 2026, the season activates venues across the region — from historic theatres to outdoor stages — reinforcing the company’s vision of Prince Edward County as a growing destination for professional theatre. “County Stage is about gathering — bringing artists and audiences together to laugh, reflect, and experience great stories in beautiful places,” says Artistic Director Heather Braaten. “The 2026 Season builds on our successful repertory model that was piloted in 2025. It moves from joyful musical comedy to bold Canadian storytelling to imaginative outdoor theatre. It’s a celebration of connection and the thrill of live performance.” A Season of Spectacular PerformancesFIRST DATE: THE MUSICAL Book by Austin Winsberg Music & Lyrics by Alan Zachary and Michael Weiner July 11 - August 7 | The Regent Theatre – Picton A blind date becomes a hilarious theatrical rollercoaster in this fast-paced musical comedy about modern love. As inner thoughts burst into song and awkward moments spiral into fantasy, a simple dinner date turns into a wildly relatable evening of laughter and unexpected connection. With a vibrant score and rapid-fire character transformations, First Date delivers the perfect summer night at the theatre. MOUTHPIECE By Amy Nostbakken and Norah Sadava July 17 - August 8 | Mount Tabor Playhouse – Milford Winner of multiple awards and acclaimed across Canada, Mouthpiece follows a young writer on a pivotal day as she grapples with her mother’s illness and the relentless pull of ambition. Performed by two actors sharing a single role, the play blends layered vocals, physicality, humour, and emotional honesty to explore the fierce inner dialogue of a modern woman. PINOCCHIO Adapted by Greg Banks July 25 - August 9 | The Eddie Pavilion – Wellington This joyful, physical adaptation of the beloved classic transforms the outdoor stage into a world of imagination. Built through ensemble storytelling and inventive movement, Pinocchio celebrates wonder, transformation, and the journey toward becoming fully human. Perfect for audiences of all ages, the production will also feature post-show workshops designed for young audiences and families. Expanding the Experience: Special Presentation and Play ReadingsMONKS By Annie Lujan and Veronica Hortiguela July 2 - 4 | The Red Barn at The Eddie Back by popular demand, this wildly irreverent interactive clown show invites audiences into a medieval monastery where chaos reigns. Expect absurd humour, live music, and a truly unpredictable night of theatre. (18+ recommended). SCRIPTS & SIPS PLAY READING SERIES
June 19, June 28, August 14 | Prince Edward County Wineries A signature County Stage experience pairing staged readings of new Canadian plays with local wines and stunning vineyard settings, offering audiences a relaxed and social way to experience theatre in development. Fall Shoulder SeasonWHITE RABBIT RED RABBIT By Nassim Soleimanpour Location & Dates TBD A global theatrical phenomenon arrives in Prince Edward County for three special performances. Each night, a different actor walks onstage with no rehearsal and no prior knowledge of the script, opening a sealed envelope and discovering the play in real time alongside the audience. The result is a theatrical event built entirely on risk, presence, and the magic of live performance.
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