Theatre Collingwood is celebrating storytellers this season.
From April through September the local theatre company is presenting performances centred around "great storytellers" beginning with a Dean Hollin original called Cole Hearted, which is about the life and music of Cole Porter. Hollin is a local radio host, long-time stage performer, and expert on the music of the Great American Songbook. Cole Hearted starts in April.
Theatre Collingwood's executive director, Erica Angus, said the company is excited about the 2023 programming, most of which will be on stage at the Simcoe Street Theatre, which is limited to 100 seats.
"There is no doubt that Collingwood needs a performing arts centre," said Angus in a news release. "The town is really lacking in a purpose-built facility, and we are looking forward to the upcoming feasibility study. But we are excited to use this little black-box theatre this year and to welcome small audiences to really unique experiences."
Next on this season's playbill is Leftovers and The Lottery starring Melody Johnson and pianist Allen Cole. The show is about author Shirley Jackson, who is known for her supernatural novels, including the Haunting of Hill House.
In June it's about Gordon Lightfoot's 85th birthday as Theatre Collingwood puts on a show at the John Saunders Centre on Sandford Fleming Drive in Collingwood. The show was created by Leisa Way and features the Wayward Wind Band.
In July the theatre company brings back the outdoor shows with its Porchside Festival and in August, Kirk Dunn will tell the story of his journey as The Knitting Pilgrim.
Capping off the season in September will be an encore performance of Confessions of a Fairy's Daughter by Alison Wearing, which is her story about the time her family learned her father was gay.
Theatre Collingwood season subscriptions, Porchside passports, and individual tickets are on sale now at www.theatrecollingwood.ca or by calling 705-445-2200. Group and student rates are available.
