The Ottawa theatre scene is buzzing with excitement as the Cappies program announces its 2025/2026 season lineup featuring four diverse productions from local high schools. This annual celebration of student talent showcases the next generation of performers and theatre technicians across the capital region.
Mythical Journeys and Timeless Tales
Sir Wilfrid Laurier Secondary School kicks off the season with Hadestown: Teen Edition running from November 26-29, 2025 at 7:00 PM. This contemporary retelling of the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice combines jazz and folk music to explore themes of love, sacrifice, and resilience. The production follows young Orpheus as he ventures into the underworld to rescue his beloved Eurydice, confronting the gods Hades and Persephone along the way.
SWL Theatre Productions promises to deliver a powerful interpretation of this Tony Award-winning musical, described as a moving tragedy that resonates with modern audiences. The school's drama department has been preparing for months to bring this emotionally charged performance to life.
Holiday Classics and Radio Drama
All Saints High School presents It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play on December 9, 2025 at 6:30 PM at the Centrepointe Theatre. This unique adaptation recreates the experience of a 1940s radio broadcast, complete with live sound effects and period-appropriate staging.
The beloved story follows George Bailey, a man who has always put others before himself, as he discovers the profound impact his life has had on his community. When a financial crisis threatens everything he's built, an unexpected visitor shows him what the world would be like without his presence. This heartwarming production captures the spirit of the holiday season while showcasing student talent in both acting and technical theatre.
Shakespearean Reimagining and Christmas Spirit
Lester B. Pearson Catholic High School brings Canadian content to the stage with Goodnight Desdemona, Good Morning Juliet by Ann-Marie MacDonald. Performances are scheduled for December 11-12, 2025 at 7:00 PM. This clever comedy follows Constance Ledbelly, a university professor who believes Shakespeare's tragedies were originally meant to be comedies.
When Constance magically finds herself within the worlds of Othello and Romeo & Juliet, she must navigate mistaken identities, love triangles, and chaotic adventures while discovering her own true self. The production showcases Canadian playwrighting talent while giving students the opportunity to explore Shakespearean themes through a contemporary lens.
Closing out the season, St. Mark High School presents the timeless classic A Christmas Carol with performances on December 11-12, 2025 at 6:30 PM and December 13, 2025 at 7:00 PM. Charles Dickens' beloved tale of redemption and holiday spirit comes to life through student interpretation, bringing the story of Ebenezer Scrooge's transformation to a new generation of theatre-goers.
Supporting Young Talent in Ottawa
The Cappies program continues to provide invaluable opportunities for Ottawa high school students to develop their theatrical skills while building confidence and teamwork. Each production represents months of preparation, from initial auditions through rehearsals and technical preparations.
These performances not only entertain audiences but also contribute to the vibrant arts culture in Canada's capital. Theatre enthusiasts and community supporters are encouraged to attend these shows to witness the emerging talent that will shape Ottawa's cultural landscape for years to come.
Ticket information and additional details about each production will be available through the participating schools and the Cappies program website as performance dates approach.
