NEWS RELEASE
THEATRE COLLINGWOOD
**********************
Get ready to hoist yer sails and tap yer toes, because Theatre Collingwood is bringing the rollicking spirit of Newfoundland straight to your doorstep!
From April 23 to 25, the John Saunders Centre will be alive with the sounds of sea shanties, heartwarming ballads, and kitchen-party classics as Shipyard Kitchen Party presents Newfoundland Songbook.
“We are so thrilled to be launching our 2025 regular season shows with this fantastic new show from a group that has a long history of being loved,” says Erica Angus, executive director for Theatre Collingwood. “We feel it leads the way for folks to enjoy a whole season of fun with Theatre Collingwood and are offering some great sales for those who want to come to it all!”
The full roster of shows and tickets can be found at www.theatrecollingwood.ca.
From the remote outports to the bustling streets of St. John’s, from the fishing stages to the kitchens and front parlours, Newfoundland Songbook takes you on a musical journey through the stories, traditions, and songs that make Canada’s 10th province truly legendary.
This all-new show features the timeless music of Great Big Sea, Ron Hynes, Buddy Wasisname and the Other Fellers, and Johnny Burke, alongside original tunes by Shipyard Kitchen Party and a little music made up right on the spot – because what’s a Newfoundland kitchen party without a little improvisation?
“We’ve been travelling across Ontario with our other productions, meeting so many folks who love east coast-inspired music,” says John Eaton of Shipyard Kitchen Party. “We figured it was high time to really celebrate our connection to Newfoundland’s music and culture.”
Featuring an all-star cast including Shipyard Kitchen Party’s John Eaton, Sacha Law, and Jason Murphy – along with Derek McLean (guitar, harmonica, mandolin, penny whistle), Jason Redman (guitar, banjo), and Saskia Tomkins (fiddle) – this show is a true love letter to Newfoundland’s deep-rooted musical traditions and storytelling heritage.
“More than just a tribute, these stories and songs are a full-on celebration!” says Sacha Law. “It’s going to be a foot-stompin’, hand-clappin’ singalong party, and we are so excited and honoured to be launching it with Theatre Collingwood.”
Born and raised in St. John’s, Jason Murphy knows first-hand the deep affection Canadians have for Newfoundland’s culture: “No matter where I’ve travelled across this great country, I’ve noticed that people have a soft spot for Newfoundland – its music, its stories, and its spirit.”
Whether you’re a born-and-bred Newfoundlander or simply a fan of great music and storytelling, Newfoundland Songbook is an experience you won’t want to miss. You may not be a Newfoundlander when you take your seat, but you’ll feel like one by the time you leave.
*************************