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Huron County Playhouse
It’s sometimes hard to please everyone when choosing a vacation destination. Some want to lounge around in the sun all day, others want to get out and explore local culture. Some want to do both. Lake Huron’s shoreline is the perfect destination for those who want it all.
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“TRULY ELECTRIC”: THERE ARE MANY OPPORTUNITIES TO EXPERIENCE THE JOLT OF LIVE THEATRE"
By Pat Morden
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Some have a vision that going to the theatre can be a rather starchy affair – high-priced tickets, fancy clothes, velvet curtains, and ornate chandeliers. But not here at the lake!
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HURON COUNTRY PLAYHOUSE
At Huron Country Playhouse (Grand Bend) and other local theatres, theatre-going is as relaxed, comfortable, and accessible as a day at the beach (and the ideal way to end one!). Alex Mustakas, Artistic Director and CEO of Drayton Entertainment, puts it this way: “What you see on the stage is the icing on the cake. Going to the theatre in Grand Bend is a whole experience – the beach, the shopping, the dining, the sunsets, and some of the best theatre in North America!”
Although the pandemic has been tough on local theatres, the passion for producing world-class productions still burns brightly. And that’s good news for visitors.
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Huron Country Playhouse (HCP), operated by Drayton Entertainment, has been part of the Grand Bend community for an amazing 50 years. Starting in a converted barn surrounded by farmers’ fields, the theatre was renovated ten years ago to create a modern lobby and an additional, smaller venue, while keeping the classic barn feel. The lush grounds are well positioned to enjoy the shoreline’s famous sunsets during intermission.
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HCP is well known for its Broadway musicals featuring top performers from across Canada. Mustakas notes the recent production of Come From Away in Toronto featured several actors who performed at HCP in 2019. The theatre also produces giddy comedies and classic dramas.
A key focus for Mustakas is keeping ticket prices accessible. “We pride ourselves not only on the artistic experience,” he says, “but also on value for money. When I see empty seats, I never think ‘lost revenue’—I think ‘lost experience.’” In common with theatres everywhere, HCP was shuttered in 2020 due to Covid-19.
Mainstage
Beautiful: The Carole King Musical
June 15 to July 1, 2023
July 12 to July 29, 2023
August 9 to September 3, 2023
South Huron Stage
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June 7 to June 25, 2023
July 5 to July 22, 2023
August 3 to August 20, 2023