Young People’s Theatre has unveiled its 2026.27 season under the theme “The Hero in Us All,” presenting a dynamic line-up of productions designed to inspire imagination, resilience and creativity in young audiences. The new season features beloved family entertainment, original Canadian storytelling and interactive theatrical experiences tailored to children from infancy through adolescence.

Running from September 11, 2026 through May 6, 2027, the season reflects Young People’s Theatre’s long-standing commitment to creating meaningful artistic experiences for children and families. Productions will explore themes of courage, friendship, emotional growth and self-discovery while offering engaging theatre experiences for a wide range of age groups.

Jordan Opens the Season

The season begins with Jordan, running from October 16 to October 23, 2026 for children aged six to twelve and students in Grades 1 to 6. The production introduces audiences to a young protagonist navigating personal challenges while discovering inner strength and confidence.

Created for school-aged audiences, the production aligns with the season’s central message that heroism often emerges through empathy, determination and personal growth rather than extraordinary powers. Young People’s Theatre has increasingly focused on stories that encourage emotional intelligence alongside entertainment, making productions like Jordan an important part of its programming.

Finding Nemo Brings a Family Favourite to the Stage

One of the season’s most anticipated productions is Finding Nemo, which runs from November 26 to December 27, 2026. Recommended for ages six and older, the production adapts the beloved underwater adventure into a theatrical experience filled with music, movement and colourful visual storytelling.

The story follows the journey of Marlin and Nemo as they navigate friendship, courage and family bonds across the ocean. Its themes of perseverance and self-belief fit naturally within the theatre’s “The Hero in Us All” season concept.

The holiday run is expected to attract families looking for festive entertainment during the winter season, continuing Young People’s Theatre’s tradition of presenting large-scale productions during December.

Fred Penner Returns with Music and Positivity

Canadian children’s entertainer Fred Penner takes centre stage with Fred Penner: The Hero In You from March 6 to March 20, 2027. Designed for children aged three to seven, the production combines music, storytelling and audience interaction in an uplifting theatrical experience.

Known for decades of family entertainment, Fred Penner remains a familiar and comforting figure for multiple generations of Canadian families. The production encourages young audiences to recognise confidence, kindness and imagination within themselves.

Productions for Younger Audiences and Teens

The season also includes Grand Soft Day, running from April 24 to May 2, 2027 for children aged two to six. The gentle, sensory-focused production is designed specifically for very young audiences, encouraging curiosity and imaginative exploration through theatre.

For older audiences, Battles runs from April 26 to May 6, 2027 and is recommended for ages ten and older. Aimed at students in Grades 5 through 12, the production explores themes relevant to pre-teens and teenagers while encouraging discussion and critical thinking.

Interactive Experiences Through Room for Play

Returning throughout the season is Room for Play, running from September 11, 2026 through May 2, 2027 for children aged 11 months to five years. The interactive experience invites children and caregivers to participate in creative play and exploration in a welcoming environment.

By combining beloved stories, interactive experiences and age-specific productions, Young People’s Theatre’s 2026.27 season promises another engaging year of live performance for Toronto families and young audiences.

About Young People’s Theatre

Young People’s Theatre (YPT) is Canada’s largest and oldest professional theatre for young audiences. Now entering its 59^th season, the company produces and presents a full season of theatre and arts education programming, serving approximately 150,000 patrons annually. With the purchase and renovation of YPT 161 Studios across the street from its historic theatre, YPT has expanded its footprint, increased its accessibility, refreshed its lobbies, and upgraded the theatrical equipment capabilities of its 433-seat Ada Slaight Stage and 115-seat Studio. United in vision, the two facilities anchor the corner of Front and Frederick streets in downtown Toronto creating Canada’s largest theatre complex for young people. With its broad-ranging educational programs and exceptional productions, the company has an annual operating budget of approximately $5 million. Learn more.