Toronto audiences can once again look forward to a season of innovative live performance as Buddies in Bad Times Theatre launches its 2026–27 season. Recognised as the world’s largest and longest-running queer theatre, the company continues its tradition of presenting courageous stories that challenge convention while celebrating diverse voices.

The new season combines original Canadian productions, artistic development initiatives and community-focused programming. As a result, theatre lovers can expect performances that blend drama, humour, music and experimental storytelling. The season also reinforces Buddies’ long-standing commitment to supporting artists whose work explores identity, belonging and social change.

A Home for New Canadian Voices

One of the defining strengths of Buddies in Bad Times Theatre has always been its dedication to developing new Canadian works. Rather than relying heavily on established classics, the company provides opportunities for playwrights, performers and creators to debut fresh productions that reflect contemporary experiences.

Throughout the 2026–27 season, audiences will encounter stories that examine culture, gender, family and personal transformation through imaginative theatrical forms. Many productions also encourage discussion long after the curtain falls, making each visit more than simply an evening of entertainment.

September 30 – October 17, 2026
Bootycandy By Robert O’Har
buddiesinbadtimes.com/show/bootycandy

A bold collaboration with Obsidian Theatre Company, Bootycandy explores Black queer identity through dark comedy, satire and unforgettable characters, examining family, privilege, sexuality and belonging with wit and honesty.

November 12 – 15, 2026
Toronto Burlesque Festival
buddiesinbadtimes.com/show/toronto-burlesque-festival

The Toronto Burlesque Festival transforms Buddies into a dazzling world of burlesque, cabaret and drag, featuring acclaimed performers from Canada and abroad across four unforgettable nights of glamour.

January 20 – 24, 2027
GLORY!
by Emma Beech, Dhanu Chinniah, Arne MacPherson, Gislina Patterson, and Dasha Plett
buddiesinbadtimes.com/show/glory

We Quit Theatre’s GLORY! blends dance, documentary theatre and transfeminist fantasy, reimagining 1970s icons while exploring feminism, politics, identity and resistance through bold, provocative performance and humour.

February 17 – 20, 2027
Rhubarb! 48
buddiesinbadtimes.com/show/rhubarb-48

Canada’s longest-running experimental performance festival returns with Rhubarb! 48, showcasing innovative live art, theatre and multidisciplinary works that celebrate emerging artists, fearless creativity and boundary-pushing storytelling.

March 10 – 27, 2027
DIE TONIGHT, LIVE FOREVER or THE NOSFERATU PRINCIPLE
By Sivan Ben Yishai
buddiesinbadtimes.com/show/die-tonight-live-forever-or-the-nosferatu-principle

This neo-gothic body horror explores desire, isolation and late capitalism through surreal storytelling, following interconnected characters confronting obsession, mortality and identity in a haunting, adrenaline-filled theatrical experience.

April 8 – 10, 2027
Dimanche à Sodome
buddiesinbadtimes.com/show/dimanche-a-sodome

Presented in French, Dimanche à Sodome reimagines Lot’s wife through a feminist perspective, giving voice to Edith while exploring love, defiance, faith and moral authority with emotional depth.

More Than a Traditional Theatre Season

Beyond its mainstage productions, Buddies continues to serve as a vibrant cultural hub throughout the year. The venue regularly hosts festivals, cabarets, workshops, artist residencies and nightlife events that welcome both established theatre enthusiasts and first-time visitors.

This broad programming creates an inclusive atmosphere where audiences can discover emerging talent while experiencing a wide range of artistic expression. Consequently, the theatre remains one of Toronto’s most distinctive cultural destinations, attracting visitors from across Canada and beyond.

Celebrating Community Through Performance

The 2026–27 season also reflects Buddies’ ongoing commitment to fostering community connections. Every production contributes to conversations about representation, acceptance and creativity while offering meaningful opportunities for audiences to engage with contemporary theatre.

For nearly five decades, Buddies has played an important role in Canada’s performing arts landscape. Its emphasis on artistic excellence, accessibility and queer storytelling continues to influence both emerging creators and established theatre companies.

Whether attending a dramatic premiere, an intimate cabaret or a special cultural event, visitors can expect performances that are thought-provoking, entertaining and unmistakably original.

For the latest production schedule, performance dates and ticket information, readers are encouraged to visit the theatre’s official website.