Tom Thomson’s Wake

Two years after renowned painter Tom Thomson’s mysterious death, his friend, his mentor, and his lover gather to share their memories of Algonquin Park’s most famous resident. But did any of them really know the man? Through their diverging songs and stories, a new portrait of the iconic Canadian artist emerges.

Featuring high-definition imagery of Tom Thomson and Group of 7 artworks, unforgettable characters, and an original folk music score by Shipyard Kitchen Party (creators of the musical 100 Years From Now), this new Canadian musical is sure to engage and entertain audiences of all ages.

The Musicians

The Shipyard Kitchen Party – With roots in Scotland, Newfoundland, and Georgian Bay, this group blends traditional instrumentation with humour, artistry, and history to tell Canadian stories, our stories, and even YOUR stories in original ways. Shipyard Kitchen Party features John Eaton (Guitar/Bass/Mandolin/Vox), Sacha Law (Bass/Vox), and Jason Murphy (Bodhran/Vox).

The production of “Tom Thomson’s Wake” is joined by the following musicians and actors:

Victoria Yeh straps on her fiddle to join in on the Shipyard Kitchen Party production of “Tom Thomson’s Wake.” A celebrated violinist, she’s most known for her performances as a soloist and fusion electric violinist. In addition to a rich studio recording and teaching career, she’s also played in various symphonies, pit orchestras, and musical theatre productions, and has played with The Shipyard Kitchen Party for the past 2 years.

Jason Redman, teacher, recording artist, and multi-instrumentalist. Jason has been entertaining audiences for three decades with a mix of personal song writing and impeccable musicianship that has earned him comparisons to Jim Cuddy and Gordon Lightfoot. A respected band leader and solo artist, he has opened for Kim Mitchell, Chantal Kreviazuk, and Ron Sexmith, among many others.

Award-winning actress, Julie LeBlanc stars as Tom’s lover, Winnie Trainor, shining a light on the painter’s life from a uniquely intimate point of view. Julie cut her teeth in the world of theatre in 1983 with a Peterborough Theatre Guild production and realized that walking the stage was where she wanted to be. Julie has a great love for teaching and has been a drama instructor since 1985, teaching and facilitating drama workshops at many area schools, camps, companies and theatres. Since relocating to Collingwood in 2011, Julie has joined the C.I.A.-Collingwood Improv Artists and hosted the popular ‘Georgian Bay Life’ show on RogersTV.

A sought-after personality in the field of entertainment, Dean Hollin plays the role of Mark Robinson, head ranger of Canoe Lake and Algonquin Park guide. Dean has made, and continues to make, his mark in a number of capacities:  actor, emcee, director, host, and singer. He is increasingly noted for his entertaining lectures and informative concerts mapping out the importance and significance of the Great American Songbook.

Operatic tenor and actor,Craig Ashton began his career with the Canadian Opera Company at the age of twenty-four.  In addition to leading operatic roles, he has starred in musical theatre productions of Hal Prince’s The Phantom of The Opera and Show Boat, and was a member of the original Canadian Tenors. Craig Ashton, stars in “Tom Thomson’s Wake” as A.Y. Jackson, the painter’s friend and Group of 7 artist.

Make It An Experience

Ticket holders can access exclusive deals with our restaurant and hotel partners. Enjoy dinner, a show and a beautiful night on the town before you retire to your hotel room. Adventure awaits!

Saturday September 23 – Showplace Theatre (Peterborough)

1. CLICK HERE for Show Tickets
2. Reserve your pre-show dinner special at Amandala’s Restaurant. 3-course special $75/pp. Call (705) 749-9090

Saturday September 30 – Victoria Hall (Cobourg)

1. CLICK HERE for Show Tickets
2. Reserve your pre-show dinner special at Arthur’s Pub. Free dessert with entrée and show ticket. Call (905) 372-9940 to reserve
3. Book your discounted hotel rooms at Best Western Plus Cobourg Inn & Convention Centre for just $130-135 per room (limited availability) Book Online or Call 1-866-262-6874. Ask for the Shipyard Kitchen Party room block