The Foster Festival returns in 2026 with its signature blend of warmth, wit and human connection, offering theatre‑goers in St. Catharines and beyond a delightful season of new works and beloved comedies. Celebrating the spirit of community and the craft of Norm Foster and other Canadian playwrights, this year’s programme spans world premieres, classic Foster humour and a festive double bill to end the year on a high note.

2026 Foster Festival Plays

Fostered Playwrights Festival 2026 — April 17 ‑ 19, 2026

Kicking off the season, the Fostered Playwrights Festival returns to Sons & Daughters Winery with four new plays presented in public readings. This weekend’s event highlights emerging and established Canadian voices, offering audiences a glimpse of fresh theatrical work and the chance to witness the development of contemporary scripts. One of the featured pieces, Every Little Thing by Festival Artistic Director Emily Oriold, receives a more advanced reading complete with sound and costume elements.

The Bean (World Premiere) — June 10 ‑ 21, 2026

The first mainstage production of the season, The Bean, is a brand new comedy by Norm Foster that explores the unexpected connection between two strangers. Meeting daily at their favourite coffee shop, Dennis and Cheryl discover that their conversations brew far more than just caffeine. Set at Sons & Daughters Winery in Ridgeville, this world premiere serves up laughs and heart as it steeps characters and audience alike in a story about friendship and life’s unexpected turns.

The Long Weekend — July 9 ‑ 19, 2026

A true Norm Foster classic, The Long Weekend returns to the Mandeville Theatre at Ridley College with a comedic look at relationships, secrets and social façades. When Max and Wynn invite friends Roger and Abby for a weekend at their country home, what should be a relaxing break turns into a tangled web of truths and deceptions. With sharp dialogue and plenty of surprises, this production promises laughter from start to finish.

Euchre Night (World Premiere) — August 6 ‑ 16, 2026

Another eagerly awaited world premiere, Euchre Night, delves into long‑standing friendship and the changes life deals out. For 32 years, Ruby, Deb, Kelly and Grace have gathered weekly to play cards — a tradition filled with camaraderie, laughter and shared history. When a new romance looms on the horizon, the group must grapple with how time and change affect even the strongest bonds. The result is a poignant, funny and deeply human comedy set against the familiar backdrop of a card table.

Foster Christmas Double Bill — December  2 ‑ 19, 2026

Closing the year in festive style, the Foster Christmas Double Bill presents two new one‑act comedies at Navy Hall in Niagara‑on‑the‑Lake. The Office Christmas Party throws workplace dynamics into the chaos of festive cheer as roles shift and old rivalries resurface. Widow Wonderland brings together two holiday dinner companions — alone and navigating the awkwardness of first impressions — in a heart‑warming story filled with seasonal humour. Both pieces promise the characteristic wit and warmth audiences have come to expect from Norm Foster’s holiday offerings.

Across its 2026 season, The Foster Festival continues to champion Canadian theatre with a compelling mix of world premieres, ensemble comedies and opportunities to celebrate new voices. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to Foster’s work, this year’s line‑up is sure to offer laughter, insight and memorable moments on stage.

About Foster Festival

The Foster Festival is a Canadian theatre company located in St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada. Founded in 2016 by renowned Canadian actor and playwright Norm Foster, the festival aims to celebrate the work of Norm Foster, one of Canada’s most prolific and popular playwrights, by producing his plays alongside works by other Canadian playwrights.

The festival runs during the summer months, presenting a season of plays that often include Norm Foster’s comedies, which are known for their wit, humour, and relatable characters. The Foster Festival’s productions have garnered critical acclaim for their quality and entertainment value, attracting both local audiences and visitors to the Niagara region.

In addition to its mainstage productions, The Foster Festival also engages in community outreach and educational initiatives, including workshops, readings, and other events aimed at promoting Canadian theatre and fostering a love of the performing arts.