Inaugural Bealtaine Theatre Festival brings contemporary Irish theatre to Toronto
iPhoto caption: Production image of The Livrarian. Photo by Anita Murphy.
Toronto audiences will experience a diverse selection of Irish theatre, music, and storytelling as the Bealtaine Theatre Festival debuts from April 25 to May 25. Presented by the Canada Ireland Foundation, the festival showcases a range of artistic voices, with a goal to strengthen cultural exchange between Ireland and Canada. Its inaugural lineup includes four productions that merge tradition with contemporary storytelling.
The 2026 edition of Bealtaine Theatre Festival will be hosted at the Corleck, a new cultural centre on Toronto’s waterfront. The venue will provide a hub for Irish arts in Canada, further strengthening artistic collaboration between the two countries.
This year’s slate of full productions is listed below.
The King of All Birds
April 25 – 27
Ontario Heritage Centre
The King of All Birds explores humanity’s enduring fascination with flight. Blending music, film collage, and vocoder effects, this performance examines the myths, dreams, and ambitions that have shaped our relationship with the sky.
Tom Moran Is a Big Fat Filthy Disgusting Liar
May 2 – 3
Theatre Passe Muraille
After acclaimed runs at the Dublin and Edinburgh Fringe Festivals, Irish theatre-maker Tom Moran brings his solo show to Toronto. Blending humour and personal storytelling, Moran delivers an exploration of masculinity, childhood, and self-acceptance, earning him recognition as one of Ireland’s rising theatre talents.
Story of a Day – Scéal Lae
May 17 – 18
Helen Gardiner Phelan Playhouse
Story of a Day is a playful and poetic celebration of life’s small wonders, following a child’s journey as ordinary moments turn into extraordinary adventures. Featuring original music by Tom Lane and vibrant illustrations by Mary Murphy, this production invites young audiences to see the world with fresh eyes. Designed for families with children aged four and up.
The Libravian
May 24 – 25
Helen Gardiner Phelan Playhouse
Part storyteller, part adventurer, Lynn the “Libravian” leads audiences on a journey through literature, exploring tales of bravery and imagination. With playful costumes, intricate sound design, and physical theatre, this production is suited for families with children aged eight to 11.
Tickets for all performances are available through the Canada Ireland Foundation website and partner venues.
Canada Ireland Foundation is an Intermission partner. Learn more about Intermission’s partnership model here.
Krystal Abrigo
Krystal is Intermission's Publishing and Editorial Assistant. A Scarborough-based writer of Philippine and Egyptian descent, she graduated cum laude with an Honours BA in Professional Writing from York University, specializing in Book Publishing and Corporate/Organizational Communication. She enjoys reading bell hooks, Audre Lorde, and James Baldwin. At any given moment, you can probably find her at a concert or on a long walk somewhere in Toronto.
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