Cup of Hemlock Theatre Podcast

Welcome back to the 232nd episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 232nd episode we bring you a Duet Review of The Threepenny Opera, written by Bertolt Brecht, Kurt Weill, and Elisabeth Hauptmann, in a contemporary adaptation by Simon Stephens, directed by Anita La Selva, and presented by Unbridled Theatre Collective. Join Mackenzie Horner and Graeme McClelland, as they discuss playful shadows, question mortality, and make far too many references to other musicals. The Threepenny Opera is playing at VideoCabaret's Deanne Taylor Theatre (10 Busy St, Toronto, ON) until May 17th, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.ticketscene.ca/list.php?q=the+threepenny+opera This review contains many SPOILERS for The Threepenny Opera. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [18:58] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Follow our panelists: Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeatApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeNSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAuGraeme McClelland – Instagram: instagraeme999Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatreIf you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com

Welcome back to the 231st episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 231st episode we bring you a Duet Review of Wicked Nix, based on the novel by Lena Coakley, adapted for the stage by Paula Wing, directed by Stephen Colella, and presented by Young People's Theatre (YPT). Join Jillian Robinson and Mackenzie Horner, as they discuss the many clever uses of shag carpet this production employed, the balance this cast between playing to the child and adults in the audience, and how YPT continues its track record of proving YA productions are not just for kids. Wicked Nix is playing at YPT (165 Front St E, Toronto, ON) until May 15th, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.youngpeoplestheatre.org/shows-tickets/wicked-nix/ This review contains many SPOILERS for Wicked Nix. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [14:47] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Follow our panelists: Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeatApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeNSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAuJillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatreIf you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com

Welcome back to the 230th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 230th episode we bring you a Duet Review of The Roof is Leaking ਛੱਤ ਚੋਂਦੀ ਹੈ, a new play by Davinder Malhi and Sanskruti Marathe, directed by Ash Knight, presented in its world premiere by Pleiades Theatre. Join Jillian Robinson and Ryan Borochovitz, as they discuss multilayered mourning, symbolic trials, and intersections of tradition and change.The Roof is Leaking ਛੱਤ ਚੋਂਦੀ ਹੈ is playing at the Berkeley Street Theatre (26 Berkeley St, Toronto, ON) until May 18th, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.pleiadestheatre.org/theroofisleaking This review contains many SPOILERS for The Roof is Leaking ਛੱਤ ਚੋਂਦੀ ਹੈ. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [07:55] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Follow our panelists: Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Ryan Borochovitz – [Just send all that love to CoH instead; he won't mind!]; if you enjoy his theatre thoughts, more can be found at https://nextmag.ca/search/borochovitz Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatreIf you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.comCHAPTERS: 0:00 – Intro: Water, Water Everywhere 1:50 – Pre-Spoiler 8:11 – SPOILERS from here on out 8:24 – In the Moisture of It All 18:44 – Cracked Drywall 23:17 – Getting Divorced at Recess 27:08 – Up with the Times 30:22 – Representing Tradition 39:51 – Representing Understanding45:13 – Sign Off: The Beauty of Dialogue

Welcome back to the 229th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 229th episode we bring you a a new instalment of our subseries 'Screened Plays'. This time we are covering the mid-2000s teen romcom Amanda Bynes classic She's the Man (2006), directed by Andy Fickman and featuring the film debut of Channing Tatum. Mackenzie and his fellow panelists discuss this pieces loose adaption of its source material Shakespeare's Twelfth Night, soccer montages, and which other Shakespeare plays deserve a modern reinterpretation. Follow our panelists: Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeatApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeNSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAuSarah Hime – Instagram: @hime.sarah // TikTok: @sarah.hime Alicia Plummer – Instagram: @ItIsAliciaPlummer // Tiktok: @hialiciabyealicia Hilary Wirachowsky – Instagram: @hilarylynne Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com

Welcome back to the 228th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 228th episode we bring you a Duet Review of Game of Life, a two-part theatrical experience (containing Lucy AI and Elephant) created and performed by the members of bluemouth inc., presented in its world premiere at The Theatre Centre. Join Jillian Robinson and Ryan Borochovitz, as they discuss community building through participatory performance, the bittersweet complexities of generative AI, and the healing power of Art (with a capital “A”). Game of Life ran at The Theatre Centre (1115 Queen St W, Toronto, ON) from March 27-29, 2025. Information about the production can be found via following link: https://www.bluemouthinc.live/game-of-life This review contains many SPOILERS for Game of Life. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [27:49] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Even though its premiere run has already come to an end, we hope and expect that it may receive a fruitful afterlife. Follow our panelists: Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Ryan Borochovitz – [Just send all that love to CoH instead; he won't mind!]; if you enjoy his theatre thoughts, more can be found at https://nextmag.ca/search/borochovitz Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatreIf you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com CHAPTERS: 0:00 – Intro: Let's Play a Game 3:30 – Pre-Spoiler 4:45 – Pre-Spoiler: Lucy AI 13:43 – Pre-Spoiler: Elephant27:31 – SPOILERS from here on out 27:54 – Let the Games Begin 34:44 – Rigidity, Freedom, and Stolen Time 52:31 – Dancing Through Life 57:54 – Theatre of Dead Elephants 1:02:28 – Where's Walpurgisnacht? 1:11:36 – Lucy, you got some 'splainin' to do 1:16:44 – Black Mirror Fanfiction 1:26:11 – Why is Lucy AI? 1:39:08 – Sign Off: No Stationary Bike is an Island

Welcome back to the 227th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 227th episode we bring you a Duet Review of Ophis, the latest immersive dance show presented by Transcen|Dance Project. Join Mackenzie Horner and special guest Graeme McClelland, as they discuss how this piece is a reclamation of Medusa and her myth, the plethora of reasons to see this production more than once, and unique and innovative reinterpretation of the God figures of this tale.Ophis is playing at The Great Hall (1087 Queen St W, Toronto, ON) until April 13th, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.transcendanceproject.com/tickets This review contains many SPOILERS for Ophis. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [26:37] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Follow our panelists: Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeatApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeNSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAuGraeme McClelland – Instagram: instagraeme999Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatreIf you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com

Welcome back to the 226th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 226th episode we bring you a Duet Review of A Public Display of Affection, written and performed by Jonathan Wilson, directed by Mark McGrinder, co-presented by Studio 180 Theatre and Crow's Theatre. Join Ryan Borochovitz and special guest Robert Sekulovich, as they get personal, political, and downright vulnerable, discussing the responsibility of queer elders to their community, the craft of autobiographical reminiscences, and the moral arc of history. A Public Display of Affection is playing at Streetcar Crowsnest (345 Carlaw Ave., Toronto, ON) until April 20th, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.crowstheatre.com/whats-on/view-all/a-public-display-of-affection CONTENT WARNING: This review discusses themes of homophobia, violence against LGBTQ+ people, the rising tide of global fascism, and particularly the catastrophic loss of queer life during the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Viewer discretion is advised. Less importantly, this review contains many SPOILERS for A Public Display of Affection. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [14:28] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatreIf you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com

Welcome back to the 225th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 225th episode we bring you a Duet Review revisiting John Logan's Red, presented by Riot King, directed by Kenzia Dalie, starring Lindsay Merrithew as Rothko and Brendan Kinnon as Ken. Join Mackenzie Horner and Jillian Robinson, as they discuss the importance of authentic character interpretation, enticement of sensory performance, and the timeless resonance of art. Red is playing at The Theatre Centre (1115 Queen St W, Toronto, ON) until April 6th, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://theatrecentre.org/event/red/ This review contains many SPOILERS for Red. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [11:50] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Follow our panelists: Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeatApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeNSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAuJillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatreIf you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com

Welcome back to the 224th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 224th episode we have a new artist interview. This particular conversation is between our Co-Artistic Producer Mackenzie Horner and actress and business owner Jadyn Nasato. They discuss her time at York University, the challenges of virtually performing during the pandemic, her growing stage and film career—where she has had the opportunity to work alongside Canadian stage and screen legends Megan Follows and Ma-Anne Dionisio and her new entrepreneurial venture, Headshots Café Studio, which she co-owns and runs with her partner.You can watch her award-winning short film Desync either on AMC+ or through Prime Video. Check out the Headshot Café Studio located at 2186 Danforth Avenue, Toronto, ONWebsite: headshotscafestudio.com Instagram: @headshotscafestudioFollow Jadyn….Instagram: @jadyn.nasatoFollow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com

Welcome back to the 223rd episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 223rd episode we bring you a Duet Review of There is Violence and there is Righteous Violence and there is Death or, The Born-Again Crow, the Governor General's Award-winning play by Caleigh Crow, directed by Jessica Carmichael, co-presented by Buddies in Bad Times Theatre and Native Earth Performing Arts. Join Ryan Borochovitz and special guest Alicia Plummer, as they discuss carrion birds, oppressive power structures, and using nature's tools to dismantle the master's house. There is Violence … The Born-Again Crow is playing at Buddies in Bad Times Theatre (12 Alexander Street, Toronto, ON) until March 29th, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://buddiesinbadtimes.com/show/there-is-violence/ This review contains many SPOILERS for There is Violence … The Born-Again Crow. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [9:11] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Follow our panelists: Alicia Plummer – Instagram: @itsaliciaplummer // TikTok: hialiciabyealicia // Women At Plays Festival Tickets (March 28-April 6): https://www.ticketscene.ca/events/50824/ Ryan Borochovitz – [Just send all that love to CoH instead; he won't mind!]; if you enjoy his theatre thoughts, more can be found at https://nextmag.ca/search/borochovitz Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatreIf you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.comCHAPTERS: 0:00 – Intro: Welcome Back, Alicia 2:25 – Pre-Spoiler 9:00 – SPOILERS from here on out 9:21 – (Easily Distracted) Cast Shoutouts 32:15 – Production Elements 34:36 – Animal Transmogrification 40:35 – Chekhov's Gun 46:47 – The REAL Canadian Superstore 55:35 – Indigeneity & Resistance 1:01:15 – (Non-)Concluding Thoughts

Welcome back to the 222nd episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 222nd episode we bring you a Duet Review of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, directed by Jennifer Walls, and presented by Shifting Ground Collective. Join Mackenzie Horner and Ryan Borochovitz, as they discuss competitive spelling, audience participation, and neurodiverse representation. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is playing at the Aki Studio (585 Dundas St E, Toronto, ON) until March 15th, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://shiftinggroundcollective.com/spelling-bee/ This review contains many SPOILERS for The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [23:01] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Support Shifting Ground Collective: https://shiftinggroundcollective.com/support-shifting-ground/ Follow our panelists: Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeatApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeNSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAuRyan Borochovitz – [Just send all that love to CoH instead; he won't mind!]; if you enjoy his theatre thoughts, more can be found at https://nextmag.ca/search/borochovitz Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatreIf you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com0:00 – I-N-T-R-O 5:10 – Pre-Spoiler 14:37 – Cast Shoutouts 22:55 – SPOILERS from here on out 23:15 – Neurodiversity 38:04 – Oh Right, It's a Musical 45:32 – Cotton Candy

Welcome back to the 221st episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 221st episode we bring you a a new instalment of our subseries 'Screened Plays'. This time we are celebrating the life and career of the late Dame Maggie Smith as we discuss the Oscar winning film The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie (1969), directed by Ronald Neame, and based on the play by Jay Presson Allen (itself adapted from Muriel Spark's novel of the same name). Together the panellist discuss alternative casting choices, this film's representation of women and female sexuality, and the timely nature of this film's depiction and commentary on the relationships between teachers and their students.Follow our panelists: Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeatApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeNSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAuSarah Hime – Instagram: @hime.sarah TikTok: @sarah.himeAlicia Plummer – Insta: @ItIsAliciaPlummer Tiktok: @hialiciabyealiciaHilary Wirachowsky – Insta: @hilarylynneFollow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com

Welcome back to the 220th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 220th episode we bring you a Duet Review of MONKS, created and performed by Veronica Hortigüela and Annie Luján, presented by (and at) The Theatre Centre. Join Jillian Robinson and Ryan Borochovitz, as they discuss everything from donkeys to lentils, clowns to capitalism, and the radical potential of doing nothing. MONKS is playing at The Theatre Centre (1115 Queen St W, Toronto, ON) until March 2nd, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://theatrecentre.org/event/monks/ NOTE: The entire run has already sold out (wow!); however, there will an in-person waitlist at the venue one-hour before each performance.This review contains many SPOILERS for MONKS. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [13:07] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Check out our original review of MONKS from its premiere at Toronto Fringe 2024: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BDKw_MDJLEY&t=3812s Follow our panelists: Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Ryan Borochovitz – [Just send all that love to CoH instead; he won't mind!]; if you enjoy his theatre thoughts, more can be found at https://nextmag.ca/search/borochovitz Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatreIf you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com

Welcome back to the 219th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 219th episode we bring you a Duet Review of The Darkest Dark, based on the book by Chris Hadfield and Kate Fillon, adapted by the stage by Jim Millan and Ian MacIntyre, directed by Jim Millan, and presented by Young People's Theatre (YPT). Join Jillian Robinson and Ryan Borochovitz, as they discuss facing fears, swinging sixties, and boldly going where no kid has gone before. The Darkest Dark is playing at YPT (165 Front St E, Toronto, ON) until March 16th, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.youngpeoplestheatre.org/shows-tickets/the-darkest-dark/ This review contains many SPOILERS for The Darkest Dark. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [10:31] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Follow our panelists: Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Ryan Borochovitz – [Just send all that love to CoH instead; he won't mind!]; if you enjoy his theatre thoughts, more can be found at: https://nextmag.ca/search/borochovitz Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatreIf you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.comCHAPTERS: 0:00 – Intro: Preparing for Landing 2:28 – Pre-Spoiler 10:26 – SPOILERS from here on out 10:40 – Fear, Bravery, and Imagination 16:38 – Cast Shoutouts 28:14 – Dream Sequences 33:56 – '60s Scene Transitions 36:22 – A PSA for YPT 38:57 – Sign Off: Into the Stratosphere

Welcome back to the 218th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 218th episode we have a new artist interview. This particular conversation was hosted by our Co-Artistic Producer Ryan Borochovitz and features Program Officer of visual and performing arts for The Japan Foundation, Toronto, Toshi Aoyagi. Join these two as they discuss Cinema Kabuki, an annual event in which filmed versions of kabuki plays are presented for Torontonian audiences as well as traditional Japanese artforms, complicated gender dynamics, and bridging cultural divides. Cinema Kabuki will be screened in three instalments at the TIFF Lightbox (350 King St W, Toronto, ON), on February 23rd, 2025. Tickets to the screenings can be purchased from the following link: https://tr.jpf.go.jp/cinema-kabuki-2025-toronto/ Register for the Kabuki Talk Series: https://tr.jpf.go.jp/kabuki-talk-series-2025/ CONTENT WARNING: This interview contains brief allusions to suicide and sexual violence against women, contained entirely within a segment discussing the kabuki play Princess Sakurahime (approximately from 50:40 to 55:30). Viewer discretion is advised. Follow The Japan Foundation – Instagram: @jftoronto // Website: https://tr.jpf.go.jp/ Check out the Yōkai Netsuke Exhibition (extended into March by popular demand) – https://tr.jpf.go.jp/event/yokai-netsuke-exhibition/2024-10-17/ Check out Toshi's recent interview with A View from the Box (which we referenced in this interview) – https://aviewfromthebox.net/2025/02/01/stage-door-dialogues-toshi-aoyagi-of-cinema-kabuki-at-the-japan-foundation/ Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.comCHAPTERS: 0:00 – Intro: 3-for-1 Interview Questions3:40 – Toshi's Story 9:49 – How Does “Cinema Kabuki” Work?25:12 – Capturing Theatricality on Film 31:05 – Kabuki for Canadians 38:56 – Onnagata: A Fireball of Gender Issues 1:03:38 – Curation 1:11:03 – Talk Series 1:13:34 – What's Next?

Welcome back to the 217th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 217th episode we have a new artist interview. This particular conversation was hosted by our Co-Artistic Producer Ryan Borochovitz and andToronto-based independent filmmaker, Rebeccah Loveas they talk all about her first feature film, Fortescue,currently screening at festivals across Canada. Theydig deep into the weeds of everything frommumblecore to metatheatre, strong shields to thematicthrough lines, and the leaps of faith that go into everyartistic endeavour. CONTENT WARNING: This interview contains many references to severe mental health issues and psychotic episodes; it may include language around these topics that some may find offensive. There are also brief references to sexual harassment and violence toward women and minors. Viewer discretion is strongly advised. Less importantly, this review contains many SPOILERS for Fortescue. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [32:39] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the film, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. For all updates about Fortescue and info about its festival touring dates, follow the film on Instagram: @fortescuefilm IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt32420932/ Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com

Welcome back to the 216th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 216th episode we bring you a Duet Review of Winter Solstice, written by Roland Schimmelpfennig directed by Alan Dilworth, presented in its Canadian English-Language premiere by Necessary Angel Theatre Company, in partnership with Canadian Stage and Birdland Theatre. Join Mackenzie Horner & Jillian Robinson as they discuss the struggle of isolated artists, the power of minimalist staging, and the need for audiences to activate their experiences beyond the theatrical doors. Winter Solstice is running at the Berkeley Street Theatre (26 Berkeley St, Toronto, ON until February 2nd, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.canadianstage.com/shows-events/season/winter-solstice This review contains many SPOILERS for Winter Solstice. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [14:40] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Follow our panelists: Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeat Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeN Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAu Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com

Welcome back to the 215th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 215th episode we bring you a Duet Review of Last Landscape, created and directed by Adam Paolozza, presented by Bad New Days, in partnership with Common Boots Theatre and Buddies in Bad Times. Join Jillian Robinson and Ryan Borochovitz, as they discuss artificial environments, pops of puppetry, and mushrooms at the end of the world. The Last Landscape is playing at Buddies in Bad Times Theatre (12 Alexander Street, Toronto, ON) until January 26th, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://buddiesinbadtimes.com/show/last-landscape/ This review contains many SPOILERS for Last Landscape. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [09:28] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Follow our panelists: Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Ryan Borochovitz – [Just send all that love to CoH instead; he won't mind!]; if you enjoy his theatre thoughts, more can be found at https://nextmag.ca/search/borochovitz Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com CHAPTERS: 0:00 – Intro: Unfurl & Unfold 2:20 – Pre-Spoiler 9:21 – SPOILERS from here on out 9:36 – Of Mushrooms & Sloths 16:02 – Back to the Bench 28:49 – What is “Last”? What is “Landscape”? 34:10 – The Last Man 40:34 – Paratextual Commentary 46:02 – Like a Belgian Palindrome 47:56 – Sign Off

Happy New Year and welcome back to the 214th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 214th episode we bring you a very special episode of “The Cup: Editorial” in which we look back on the year that's passed, the plays we loved, and the episodes we produced. Join our Golden Trio (Jillian Robinson, Mackenzie Horner, and Ryan Borochovitz) as they raise their custom-branded mugs and say cheers to 2024! Here's a list of all the episodes from 2024 that we shout out in this episode (in order of first mention). If any of them piqued your interest, give them a watch/listen: Fences (Screened Play): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RRoqQwugzIc Summer Dances: A Mixed Bill: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rr3c9aWZkT0 Toronto Fringe Review Roundup 2024 Pt.1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lj_wxsX1tGs&t=2241s Toronto Fringe Review Roundup 2024 Pt.2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fFGOJTtVljI&t=6195s Toronto Fringe Review Roundup 2024 Pt.3: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BDKw_MDJLEY&t=8434s Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W0iuadp8zck&t=1800s Scott Alan Interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-k4AViQsRMY&t=720s Alicia Richardson Interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EZnu0OwCtaE Mateo Chavez Lewis Interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=drnTPBYpjuY Chloë Rose Flowers Interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h4DqKRzzUiA Hamilton (200th Episode): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3RcJ9Lj9-h0&t=5798s The Crucible (NT Live): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8lpSFTH1ojk Playing Shylock: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EKGayi9ONHE&t=526s HRH Anand Rajaram Interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fzOfGWpy_rc&t=4815s Rear Window: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n4GGPWO17VY Dead Elephants: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ex6zVShCpfM&t=826s The Fixing Girl: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_yS-Fsi-kHE Four Minutes Twelve Seconds: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fl3vGk_LgpE The Eve of St. George: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IrCb8PkxAmg Follow our panelists: Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeat Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeN Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAu Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 // Tommy Rhodes Cast Album – Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/gb/album/tommy-rhodes-original-studio-cast-recording/1786580779 / Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/1t4NtJFUa4TVAJm8mWCIOP?si=_npoj8ptSD-tcYbv7qJiaA&nd=1&dlsi=cf35a53988054372 / YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s02VjtbFH1U&ab_channel=MusicTheatreTheory Ryan Borochovitz – [Just send all that love to CoH instead; he won't mind!] Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com CHAPTERS: 0:00 – Intro: Crunching Numbers 4:58 – 52 Episodes 6:56 – 94 Reviews 11:33 – 11 Interviews 16:00 – 1 Screened Play 20:01 – 0 Editorials 23:14 – 7 Guest Reviewers 30:26 – Most Popular Episodes of 2024 35:17 – Our Favourite Episodes of 2024 45:23 – Our Favourite Plays of 2024 1:05:37 – Our Most Anticipated Plays of 2025 1:13:32 – Sign Off

Welcome back to the 213th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 213th episode we bring you an extra special holiday Duet Review of It Sees You When You're Sleeping, written and performed by Phil Rickaby, directed by joey o'dael, presented in association with Eldritch Theatre. Join Mackenzie Horner and Ryan Borochovitz, as they discuss grieving relatives, controlling narrators, and rhyming memes. Happy holidays from all of us at Cup of Hemlock Theatre; we'll see you in 2025! It Sees You When You're Sleeping ran at the Red Sandcastle Theatre (922 Queen St E, Toronto, ON) from December 19 to 21, 2024. You can learn more about the production from the following link: https://eldritchtheatre.ca/sleeping/ This review contains many SPOILERS for It Sees You When You're Sleeping. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [13:38] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Even though its premiere run has already come to an end, we hope and expect that it may receive a fruitful afterlife. Follow our panelists: Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeat Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeN Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAu Ryan Borochovitz – [Just send all that love to CoH instead; he won't mind!] Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com CHAPTERS: 0:00 – Introduction: You've heard of elf on a shelf? 4:34 – Pre-spoiler on a potboiler 13:27 – SPOILERS from here on out 13:59 – Grief on a leaf 22:34 – Control on a flagpole 30:34 – Final thoughts on vinyl cots 33:35 – Sign off (ft. Mack being wrong about Die Hard)

Welcome back to the 209th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 209th episode we bring you a Duet Review of Unbelievably Believable, written and directed by Catherine Maleikova, presented by Twisted Dog Theatre. Join Jillian Robinson and Ryan Borochovitz, as they discuss layers of storytelling, whimsical puppetry, and the power of the imagination. Unbelievably Believable runs at Red Sandcastle Theatre (922 Queen St E, Toronto, ON) until December 15, 2024. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.ticketscene.ca/series/1291/ This review contains many SPOILERS for Unbelievably Believable. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [12:03] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Follow our panelists: Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Ryan Borochovitz – [Just send all that love to CoH instead; he won't mind!] Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cup-of-hemlock-theatre/support

Welcome back to the 209th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 209th episode we bring you a Duet Review of Oraculum, created and performed by Denim and Pythia, directed by ted witzel, and presented by Buddies in Bad Times Theatre. Join Mackenzie Horner and Ryan Borochovitz, as they discuss the aesthetics of drag performance, the legitimacy of tarot readings, and anxieties about the future. Oraculum is playing at Buddies in Bad Times Theatre (12 Alexander Street, Toronto, ON) until December 14th, 2024. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://buddiesinbadtimes.com/show/oraculum/ This review contains many SPOILERS for Oraculum. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [14:21] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Follow our panelists: Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeat Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeN Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAu Ryan Borochovitz – [Just send all that love to CoH instead; he won't mind!]; if you enjoy his theatre thoughts, more can be found at https://www.intermissionmagazine.ca/author/ryan-borochovitz/ & https://nextmag.ca/search/borochovitz Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cup-of-hemlock-theatre/support

Welcome back to the 210th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 210th episode we have a new artist interview. This particular conversation was hosted by our Associate Artistic Producer Jillian Robinson and features performer, playwright, educator, voice and dialect coach, and lover of laughter/carbohydrates Alicia Richardson. Join these two as they discuss extending your window of tolerance, realizing your correct place, and melanating the mainstream. Follow Alicia – Instagram/Twitter/TikTok: @LeeSheeLovesYou Follow bcurrent (for updates about Brown Eyes) – Instragram/Twritter/Threads: @bcurrentlive Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cup-of-hemlock-theatre/support

Welcome back to the 209th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 209th episode we bring you a Duet Review of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, book by David Greig, directed by Thom Allison, and presented by Young People's Theatre (YPT). Join Jillian Robinson and Mackenzie Horner as they discuss the multitudes of theatre magic, the local impact of a contemporary adaptation, and the timeless beauty of pure imagination. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is playing at YPT (165 Front St E, Toronto, ON) until December 30, 2024. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://tickets.youngpeoplestheatre.org/TheatreManager/1/login&event=866 This review contains SPOILERS for Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the {12:16} mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Follow our panelists: Jillian Robinson - Instagram @jillian.robinson96 Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeat Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeN Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAu Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cup-of-hemlock-theatre/support

Welcome back to the 208th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 208th episode we bring you a Duet Review of Timon of Athens, adapted by James Llewellyn Evans, directed by Max Ackerman, and produced by William Shakespeare & Friends Collective with support of Dandelion Theatre. Join Jillian Robinson and special guest Alicia Plummer as they discuss the power of bookended movement, debate the insertion of contemporary text, and decipher when we invest and when we observe. Timon of Athens is playing at The Theatre Center in The BMO Incubator (1115 Queen St. W., Toronto, ON) until November 17th, 2024. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://theatrecentre.org/tickets/?eid=139378 This review contains many SPOILERS for Timon of Athens. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the {10:52} mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Follow our panelists: Jillian Robinson - Instagram @jillian.robinson96 Alicia Plummer - Instagram: @itisaliciaplummer // TikTok: @hialiciabyealicia Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquires to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cup-of-hemlock-theatre/support

Welcome back to the 207th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 207th episode we bring you a Duet Review of Playing Shylock, written by Mark Leiren-Young, directed by Martin Kinch, starring Saul Rubinek (in the titular action), and presented by Canadian Stage in association with Starvox Entertainment. Join Ryan Borochovitz and special guest Max Ackerman, as they don their finest sweaters to revisit their complicated thoughts about The Merchant of Venice, examine the theatricality of lecturing, and (perhaps surprisingly) asses the Lorax's policy proposals for comprehensive environmental reform. Playing Shylock is running at the Berkeley Street Theatre (26 Berkeley St, Toronto, ON), now extended until December 1st, 2024. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.canadianstage.com/shows-events/season/playing-shylock This review contains many SPOILERS for Playing Shylock. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the 13:22 mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Catch up on Ryan and Max's previous jeremiad on playing (small “p”) Shylock: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GxR_0JaXUWg&t=2410s Check out the upcoming production of Timon of Athens (directed by Max), running at the Theatre Centre from November 12th-17th: https://theatrecentre.org/event/timon-of-athens/ Follow our panelists: Ryan Borochovitz – Instagram: @ryanborochovitz [just this once!] Max Ackerman – Instagram: @mackerman12 // @dandeliontheatreto // https://www.dandeliontheatreto.com/ Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com CHAPTERS: 0:00 – Introduction: Operation Shylock, Reloaded 3:33 – Pre-Spoiler 13:22 – SPOILERS from here on out 13:34 – Uncle Saul's Lecture 23:12 – It's the Jewish Play 41:19 – In Conversation with Primary Texts 53:25 – Is He Jewish Enough? 1:08:43 – Unless Someone Like You Cares a Whole Awful Lot … 1:25:28 – Verdict: The Quality of Mercy 1:29:31 – Sign Off (& An Invitation) --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cup-of-hemlock-theatre/support

Welcome back to the 206th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 206th episode we have a new artist interview. This particular conversation was hosted by our Associate Artistic Producer Jillian Robinson and features internationally acclaimed songwriter and composer Scott Alan, who is soon to be making his first visit to Canada (unless you count EPCOT) to lead the masterclass and concert, Scott Alan & Friends, presented by Doctor Bird Productions. Join these two as they discuss pressing play on your dreams, singing with the clothes from your attic, and making Shoshana Bean cry (in a good way)! Come see the Scott Alan & Friends concert at the Meridian Arts Centre (5040 Yonge St, North York, ON) on November 16, 2024. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.ticketmaster.ca/scott-alan-friends-in-concert-toronto-ontario-11-17-2024/event/10006101FCAA5AA2 Information about auditing the masterclass can be found here: https://www.universe.com/events/scott-alan-friends-the-masterclass-presented-by-doctor-bird-productions-tickets-Z1WG65 Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cup-of-hemlock-theatre/support

Welcome back to the 205th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 205th episode we bring you a Duet Review of Jekyll & Hyde: The Musical in Concert, presented by Doctor Bird Productions. Join Jillian Robinson and Ryan Borochovitz, as they revisit everyone's favourite spooky musical, praise the whole palette of talented artists, and meditate on the little bit of evil that lurks within us all. Jekyll & Hyde: The Musical in Concert ran at the Meridian Arts Centre (5040 Yonge St, North York, ON) from October 25 to 26, 2024. See the company's website for more information about the show: https://www.doctorbirdproductions.com/home This review contains many SPOILERS for Jekyll & Hyde, both the musical more broadly and this concert production in particular. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [12:39] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. Even though this production's run has already come to an end, we're hopeful that it may someday be revived elsewhere. Follow our panelists: Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Ryan Borochovitz – [Just send all that love to CoH instead; he won't mind!] Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cup-of-hemlock-theatre/support

Welcome back to the 204th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 204th episode we bring you a Duet Review of Sankofa: The Soldier's Tale Retold, presented by Art of Time Ensemble, based on Igor Stravinsky's L'Histoire du Soldat, with a new libretto by Titilope Sonuga, directed by Tawiah M'Carthy. Join Mackenzie Horner and Jillian Robinson, as they unpack the brilliance of layered theatricality, the necessity to retell one's history, and (like the sankofa) the importance of learning from the past to inform the future. Sankofa: The Soldier's Tale Retold ran at the Harbourfront Centre (235 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON) from October 24 to 27, 2024. See the company's website for more information about the show: https://harbourfrontcentre.com/event/sankofa-the-soldiers-tale-retold/ This review contains many SPOILERS for Sankofa: The Soldier's Tale Retold. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the 9:43 mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. Even though the current Toronto run has already come to an end, we hope that it may be revived elsewhere. Follow our panelists: Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeat Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeN Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAu Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cup-of-hemlock-theatre/support

Welcome back to the 203th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 203th episode we bring you Part 2 of our two-part Review Roundup covering all six shows in the 2024 Next Stage Theatre Festival (presented by Toronto Fringe). Join Jillian Robinson and Ryan Borochovitz as they reflect upon the remaining three pieces they attended, completely jettisoning their intended ten-minute allotment per show (not sorry!). In these reviews, they shine a light on the end of the world, unpack asexual dramaturgy, and have a long conversation about histories of Indigenous erasure. Catch up on Part 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jXjOdvbCriA The Next Stage Festival is currently running at Buddies in Bad Times Theatre (12 Alexander Street, Toronto, ON) until November 27th, 2024. Information about the show line-up and tickets can be found at the following link: https://fringetoronto.com/next-stage/shows WARNING: This review roundup contains spoilers for all three shows being covered. TIMESTAMP NAVIGATOR: 0:00 – Intro 2:29 – This Feels Like the End 24:53 – Prude 44:31 – Civilized 1:02:03 – Interlude … which Ryan promises will be relevant 1:12:25 – (Now, back to) Civilized 1:28:47 – Sign Off Follow our panelists: Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Ryan Borochovitz – Instagram: @ryanborochovitz [just this once!] Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cup-of-hemlock-theatre/support

Welcome back to the 202nd episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 202nd episode we bring you Part 1 of our two-part Review Roundup covering all six shows in the 2024 Next Stage Theatre Festival (presented by Toronto Fringe). Join Mackenzie Horner, Jillian Robinson, and Ryan Borochovitz as they reflect upon the first three pieces they attended, struggle to adhere to their intended ten-minute allotment per show (oops!), and discuss everything from anti-Haitian xenophobia, to high school choirs, to duty of care. Stay tuned for Parts 2, coming soon! The Next Stage Festival is currently running at Buddies in Bad Times Theatre (12 Alexander Street, Toronto, ON) until November 27th, 2024. Information about the show line-up and tickets can be found at the following link: https://fringetoronto.com/next-stage/shows WARNING: This review roundup contains spoilers for all three shows being covered. TIMESTAMP NAVIGATOR: 0:00:00 – Intro 0:02:25 – The Noose 0:14:00 – I Was Unbecoming Then 0:36:25 – Gemini 1:03:26 – Sign Off Follow our panelists: Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeatApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeNSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAu Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Ryan Borochovitz – [Just send all that love to CoH instead; he won't mind!] Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cup-of-hemlock-theatre/support

Welcome back to the 201st episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 201st episode we have a new proshot review of the the National Theatre's 2022 production of Arthur Miller's The Crucible (as preserved by National Theatre Live), directed by Lyndsey Turner, starring Brendan Cowell as John Proctor and Erin Doherty as Abigail Williams. Join host and Co-Artistic Producer @mackenzie_horner along side Co-Artistic Producer Ryan Borochovitz, Associate Producer @jillian.robinson96, returning special guest panelist @hime.sarah discuss the special rain effects and additional the prologue and epilogue this production added and Erin's alternative interpretation of Abigail. Plus they debate alternative titles for this iconic play. Watch the play on NTatHome (subscription needed): https://www.ntathome.com/the-crucible Follow our panelists: Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeat Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeN Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAu Sarah Hime – Instagram: @hime.Sarah // Twitter: @SarahHime1 // Watch Pink is In: https://tv1.bell.ca/fibetv1/shows/pink-is-in / https://www.primevideo.com/detail/Pink-Is-In/0FWMKIC23RN784WD60FC5UQ950#:~:text=Prime%20Video%3A%20Pink%20Is%20In / https://tubitv.com/series/300001076/pink-is-in Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Ryan Borochovitz – [Just send all that love to CoH instead; he won't mind!] Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cup-of-hemlock-theatre/support

Welcome back to the very special and milestone 200th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. To celebrate this big moment in our company we make good on our promise to celebrate the big milestone by reviewing the Hamilton: An American Musical, as preserved in the 2020 pro-shot streaming on Disney+. Join CoHT's golden trio (Mackenzie Horner, Jillian Robinson, and Ryan Borochovitz) as they meet in the Zoom room where it happens to give a verse and drop some knowledge about the virtues of the original Broadway cast, the significance of Peggy Schuyler, and the revolutions still to come. On behalf of the whole team, we would sincerely like to thank everyone who has helped us get this far, from guests to listeners, and everyone in between. Raise a glass to the next hundred! Watch Hamilton on Disney+ (subscription needed): https://www.disneyplus.com/en-ca/movies/hamilton/3uPmBHWlO6HJ Follow our panelists: Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeat Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeN Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAu Ryan Borochovitz – Instagram: @ryanborochovitz // Intermission Magazine: https://www.intermissionmagazine.ca/author/ryan-borochovitz/ Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cup-of-hemlock-theatre/support

Welcome back to the 199th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 199th episode we bring you a Duet Review of Mukashi, Mukashi (Once Upon a Time), co-created by Corpus Dance Projects and the Kio Company. Join Jillian Robinson and Ryan Borochovitz, as they discuss folkloric figures, subtitled translations, and the meeting of East and West. Mukashi, Mukashi ran at the Theatre Centre (1115 Queen St W, Toronto, ON) from September 24 to 29, 2024. See the company's website for more information about the show: https://www.corpus.ca/creations/mukashi-mukashi This review contains many SPOILERS for Mukashi, Mukashi. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [10:43] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Even though the current Toronto run has already come to an end, we hope and expect that it will be revived elsewhere. Follow our panelists: Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Ryan Borochovitz – [Just send all that love to CoH instead; he won't mind!] Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cup-of-hemlock-theatre/support

Welcome back to the 198th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 198th episode we bring you a Duet Review of SAMCA, written by Natalia Bushnik and Kathleen Welch, directed by Brendan Kinnon, presented by Spindle Collective and Riot King. Join Jillian Robinson and Ryan Borochovitz, as they discuss the vibes of spooky season, the feelings of being immersed in the woods, and the mechanics of being a demon. SAMCA is playing at Black Creek Pioneer Village (7060 Jane St, Vaughan, ON) until October 5th, 2024. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.riotking.com/samca CONTENT WARNING: SAMCA contains themes of sexual assault, pregnancy, miscarriage, and implied allusions to incest and abortion; this review, likewise, speaks directly to these topics. Viewer discretion is strongly advised. Less importantly, this review contains many SPOILERS for SAMCA. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [14:33] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Follow our panelists: Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Ryan Borochovitz – [Just send all that love to CoH instead; he won't mind!] Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cup-of-hemlock-theatre/support

Welcome back to the 197th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 197th episode we bring you a Duet Review of of Roberto Zucco, written by Bernard-Marie Koltès (translated from the French by Martin Crimp), directed by ted witzel, and presented by Buddies in Bad Times Theatre. Join Mackenzie Horner and Ryan Borochovitz, as they discuss the purgatorial state of true crime, sticky images, and a vision of Jean Valjean if he never met the Bishop. Roberto Zucco is playing at Buddies in Bad Times Theatre (12 Alexander Street, Toronto, ON) until October 5th, 2024. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://buddiesinbadtimes.com/show/roberto-zucco/ CONTENT WARNING: Roberto Zucco contains themes, discussions, and depictions of serial murder, suicide, sex work, and sex trafficking (including the involvement of minors); this review, likewise, speaks directly to these topics. Viewer discretion is strongly advised. Less importantly, this review contains many SPOILERS for Roberto Zucco, as well as the historical Italian crimes that inspired it. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [18:56] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Follow our panelists: Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeat Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeN Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAu Ryan Borochovitz – [Just send all that love to CoH instead; he won't mind!] Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cup-of-hemlock-theatre/support

Welcome back to the 196th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 196th episode we have a new proshot review of the Donmar Warehouse's 2022 production of Shakespeare's Henry V (as preserved by National Theatre Live), directed by Max Webster, and starring Kit Harrington in the title role. This particular conversation was hosted by Co-Artistic Producer Mackenzie and he was joined by fellow Co-Artistic Producer Ryan Borochovitz, Associate Producer Jillian Robinson, and special guest panelists Dewey Stewart. They discuss and examine the Game of Thrones connections this piece has, why this particular history play is so popular and the role and function of The Chorus in this play and much more! Watch the play on NTatHome (subscription needed): https://www.ntathome.com/henry-v Follow our panelists: Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeat Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeN Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAu Dewey Stewart – Instagram: @deweystew // YouTube: @deweystew56 Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Ryan Borochovitz – [Just send all that love to CoH instead; he won't mind!] Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cup-of-hemlock-theatre/support

Welcome back to the 195th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 195th episode we have a new artist interview. This particular conversation was hosted by our Co-Artistic Producer Ryan Borochovitz and features Emily Dix, the Artistic Executive Director of Bygone Theatre, reflecting upon their recent production of The Rear Window. Join these two as they reassess CoHT's original appraisal of the show, dive into the adaptational weeds, and amicably try modeling a new form of relational dialogue between artists and critics. Revisit our review of The Rear Window: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n4GGPWO17VY&t=2468s Learn more about the production: https://www.bygonetheatre.com/the-rear-window Follow Emily – Instagram: @emilydixto & @emilydixphotography Follow Bygone Theatre – Instagram/Facebook: @bygonetheatre Follow the Bridge (help support affordable spaces for artists!) – Instagram: @379thebridge Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cup-of-hemlock-theatre/support

Welcome back to the 194th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 194th episode we bring you a Duet Review of Girls Unwanted, written and directed by George F. Walker, presented by the King Black Box Theatre. Join Jillian Robinson and Ryan Borochovitz, as they discuss cluttered spaces, zones of silence, and the monsters from without and within. Girls Unwanted is running at the King Black Box Theatre (1224 King St W, Toronto, ON) Until September 29, 2024. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.thekingblackbox.com/girlsunwanted CONTENT WARNING: Girls Unwanted contains themes of sexual assault, suicide, self-harm, substance abuse, and the overall plight of the downtrodden; this review, likewise, speaks directly to these topics. Viewer discretion is strongly advised. Less importantly, this review contains many SPOILERS for Girls Unwanted. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [5:25] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Follow our panelists: Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Ryan Borochovitz – [Just send all that love to CoH instead; he won't mind!] Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cup-of-hemlock-theatre/support

Welcome back to the 193rd episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 193rd episode we have a new artist interview. This particular conversation was hosted by our Associate Producer Jillian Robinson and features Iain Moggach, the Artistic Director Theatre by the Bay (TBTB). Join these two as they discuss how producing local stories has impacted the communities of Simcoe County, the unprecedented success and early challenges TBTB has had since overhauling the company's programming and its mandate, their ongoing work in fostering and developing new works through their theatre lab programs, and the growth of the Simcoe County Theatre Festival. Be sure to check out all upcoming works and opportunities TBTB has to offer at their website...https://theatrebythebay.com/ Follow Iain – Instagram: @imoggach// Website: imoggach.com/ Follow Theatre by the Bay – Instagram/Facebook: @theatrebythebay // Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cup-of-hemlock-theatre/support

Welcome back to the 192nd episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 192nd episode we have a new artist interview. This particular conversation was hosted by our Co-Artistic Producer Ryan Borochovitz and features Toronto-based actor and multifaceted theatre artist, HRH Anand Rajaram, all about his play Crosstown – adapted from Richard Scrimger's 1996 novel of the same name – recently presented at the 2024 Toronto Fringe Festival and VideoCabaret. Join these two as they have a rigorous discussion about everything from honorifics to hauntology, epic poetry to urban poverty, and the challenges of making socially responsible provocative art. SPOILER WARNING: Though the initial run of Crosstown has come to an end, we sincerely hope that it will be revived by another theatre company sometime in the near future. If you happen to have found this episode shortly before planning to attend one such remount, be aware that this interview contains many spoilers, both for the play and the novel from which it is adapted. We begin with a general non-spoiler section until the [42:20] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. For anybody who wishes to avoid spoilers, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. CONTENT WARNING: This interview contains a detailed discussion about abortion – the morality, politics, and literary/theatrical representation thereof. It also includes references to infanticide, sexual assault, implied incest, alcoholism, loss of family, genocide, and colonial violence. These conversations predominantly occur during the spoiler section, if you would like to avoid such topics. Viewer/listener discretion is strongly advised. Revisit our review of Crosstown from our Fringe Review Roundup: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BDKw_MDJLEY Follow Anand – All platforms: @hrh_anand_rajaram Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cup-of-hemlock-theatre/support

Welcome back to the 191st episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 191st episode we have a new artist interview. This particular conversation was hosted by our Associate Producer Jillian Robinson and features Chloë Rose Flowers, the founding Artistic Director of King Theatre Company, who's directing the company's inaugural production of David French's Salt-Water Moon. Join these two as they discuss the schemes and dreams of blossoming theatre companies, the importance of local community, and the whimsy of giant ducks. Come see Salt-Water Moon, running from August 14th to 24th, 2024 at Pine Farms Orchard (2700 16th Sideroad, King City, ON). Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.kingtheatre.ca/whats-on Follow Chloë – Instagram: @chloeroseflowers // Website: https://www.chloeroseflowers.com/ Follow King Theatre Company – Instagram/Facebook: @kingtheatrecompany // Website: https://www.kingtheatre.ca/ Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cup-of-hemlock-theatre/support

Welcome back to the 190th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 190th episode we bring you the final instalment of our very special multi part deep dive into Toronto Fringe 2024 Review Roundup. Join Mackenzie Horner, Jillian Robinson, and Ryan Borochovitz as they blitz through the remaining fifteen shows they saw at this year's festival, unpack all of their thoughts, and commemorate this moment in local theatre history for posterity! Catch up on Part 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lj_wxsX1tGs&t=2241s And Part 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fFGOJTtVljI&t=654s TIMESTAMP NAVIGATOR: 00:00:00 – Intro 00:03:53 – Patty Picker 00:17:47 – Girls' Night Cabin Fever 00:30:43 – 86 Me: The Restaurant Play 00:45:21 – Sheila! The Musical 00:50:23 – Disarming Venus 00:59:04 – AbracadabraHaHa 01:09:30 – Colonial Circus 01:21:04 – Madame Winifred's Circus of Wonders 01:33:45 – Rosamund: A New Musical 01:50:59 – Toba Tek Singh 02:03:03 – Tape 02:15:27 – Rooted: A Musical Poem 02:22:37 – Desperate Measures 02:32:50 – Crosstown 02:46:44 – MONKS 02:59:18 – Sign Off Follow our panelists: Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeat Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeN Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAu Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Ryan Borochovitz – Instagram: @ryanborochovitz [just this once!]; see also, his Toronto Fringe reviews in Intermission Magazine: https://www.intermissionmagazine.ca/reviews/tofringe-2024/ Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cup-of-hemlock-theatre/support

Welcome back to the 189th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 189th episode we bring you the second instalment of our very special multi part deep dive into Toronto Fringe 2024 Review Roundup. Join Mackenzie Horner and Ryan Borochovitz as they try to blitz through the next sixteen shows they saw at this year's festival, unpack all of their thoughts, and commemorate this moment in local theatre history for posterity! Catch up on Part 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lj_wxsX1tGs&t=2241s Don't forget to stay tuned for Part 3, coming soon! TIMESTAMP NAVIGATOR: 00:00:00 – Intro 00:02:30 – Stiff & Sons 00:15:48 – Cabaret of Murder 00:28:53 – Rat Academy 00:37:42 – The Kid Was a Spy 00:53:28 – Gulp 01:05:33 – Dead Right 01:18:46 – Gringas 01:26:54 – Get a Clue 01:33:26 – Unfurnished 01:41:33 – Cancelled! 01:53:47 – Are You Lovin' It? 02:00:15 – Koli Kari 02:08:45 – Scenes from an Italian Restaurant 02:18:12 – Escape from Toronto 02:29:47 – Artificially Intelligent 02:38:15 – The Bluffs 02:49:18 – Sign Off Follow our panelists: Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeat Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeN Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAu Ryan Borochovitz – Instagram: @ryanborochovitz [just this once!]; see also, his Toronto Fringe reviews in Intermission Magazine: https://www.intermissionmagazine.ca/reviews/tofringe-2024/ Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cup-of-hemlock-theatre/support

Welcome back to the 188th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 188th episode we bring you the first instalment of our very special multi part deep dive into Toronto Fringe 2024 Review Roundup. Join Jillian Robinson and Ryan Borochovitz as they try to blitz through the first nine shows they saw at this year's festival, unpack all of their thoughts, and commemorate this moment in local theatre history for posterity! Don't forget to stay tuned for Parts 2 and 3, coming soon! TIMESTAMP NAVIGATOR: 00:00:00 – Intro 00:02:58 – Boy Boy and the Magic Drum 00:14:56 – You, Hamlet 00:27:59 – Painting By Numbers 00:38:50 – Mind the Umbrellas 00:51:25 – Bus Stop 01:02:21 – Before We Go 01:13:28 – gutted 01:23:18 – The First Jew in Canada: A Trans Tale 01:37:21 – Crime After Crime (After Crime) 01:51:32 – Sign Off Follow our panelists: Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Ryan Borochovitz – Instagram: @ryanborochovitz [just this once!]; see also, his Toronto Fringe reviews in Intermission Magazine: https://www.intermissionmagazine.ca/reviews/tofringe-2024/ Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cup-of-hemlock-theatre/support

Welcome back to the 186th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 186th episode we bring you a Duet Review of Summer Dances: A Mixed Bill, a series of short dance pieces, presented by Frog in Hand. Join Jillian Robinson and Marie Doucette, as they discuss choreographed storytelling, post-apocalyptic vibes, and colourful socks.    Summer Dances: A Mixed Bill is running at The Art Shelter (887 Hydro Road, Mississauga, ON) until July 20, 2024. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/summer-dances-a-mixed-bill-tickets-914727985027?aff=oddtdtcreator Follow our panelists: Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Marie Doucette – [Just send all that love to CoH instead; she won't mind!] Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cup-of-hemlock-theatre/support

Welcome back to the 186th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 186th episode we have a new artist interview. This particular conversation was hosted by our Co-Artistic Producer Mackenzie Horner and features playwright, author, and performer Trudee Romanek, whose latest work, If the Shoe Fits, will soon be debuting at the Simcoe County Theatre Festival presented by Theatre by the Bay. Join these two as they dive into Trudee's other works in her growing theatrical canon and the local connections they share, her writing process for this one man show, and how she goes about translating the lives and stories of everyday local citizens into universal experiences that connect with a broad audience. Come see If the Shoe Fits and catch Trudee pulling a double duty as she performs in the play Son of a Temperance at the Simcoe County Theatre Festival from July 10th to the 21st. Here's the link...https://sctf.ticketpro.ca/en/pages Additionally you can catch If the Shoe Fits at the London Fringe Festival which runs from Aug 13th to 17th. Here's the link...alacetheatre.ca/london-fringe/ You can check out the trailer Trudee's play 'Bobbie' which was heavily discussed in this episode...https://youtu.be/KFzVudV_mSs?si=B473T-Rl10-xgS3u Follow Trudee – Website: https://www.trudeeromanek.com/ Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cup-of-hemlock-theatre/support

Welcome back to the 185th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 185th episode we bring you a Duet Review of of Kimiko's Pearl, a new Canadian ballet presented in its world premiere by Bravo Niagara!, co-created by Christine Mori and Alexis Spieldenner, written by Howard Reich, with music composed by Kevin Lau, and choreographed by Yosuke Mino. Join Jillian Robinson and Ryan Borochovitz, as they discuss beautiful movements, digitized documents, and unspoken histories. Kimiko's Pearl ran at the First Ontario Performing Arts Centre (250 St Paul St, St. Catharines, ON) from June 22-23, 2024. You can learn more about the production from the following link: https://www.kimikospearl.com/ This review contains many SPOILERS for Kimiko's Pearl. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [18:23] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Even though its premiere run has already come to an end, we hope and expect that it will receive a fruitful afterlife. Follow our panelists: Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Ryan Borochovitz – [Just send all that love to CoH instead; he won't mind!] Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cup-of-hemlock-theatre/support

Welcome back to the 184th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 184th episode we bring you a new instalment of our subseries 'Screened Plays'. This time we are covering Fences (2016), directed and starring by Denzel Washington, alongside Viola Davis, as they reprise their Tony award winning roles from the play by August Wilson. Together Co-Artistic Producer Mackenzie Horner along side returning panelists Andrew Pawarroo, Sarah Hime, and Tanisha Sinclair discuss everything from Oscar politics to their thoughts on the complex character of Troy as interpreted by Denzel Washington. Follow our panelists: Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeat Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeN Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAu Tanisha Sinclair – Instagram: @TanishaSinclair Andrew Pawarroo – Instagram: @andrew.s.pawarroo Sarah Hime – Instagram: @hime.Sarah // Twitter: @SarahHime1 // Watch Pink is In: https://bit.ly/3xnDzP8 Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cup-of-hemlock-theatre/support

Welcome back to the 183rd episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 183rd episode we have a new artist interview. This particular conversation was hosted by our Co-Artistic Producer Ryan Borochovitz and features Toronto-based writer, performer, and podcaster Phil Rickaby. Together these two discuss the journey of Stageworthy, the state of Canadian theatre, and being an introvert in the performing arts. Follow Phil – Website: https://www.philrickaby.com/ // Instagram/Twitter/TikTok: @philrickaby  Catch up on Stageworthy – Website: https://stageworthy.ca/ // Instagram/Twitter/TikTok/Facebook/Threads: @stageworthypod // Tune in wherever you listen to your podcasts!  Read Stageworthy Dispatches – https://dispatch.stageworthy.ca/ Listen to The Introvert's Guide To … – Website: https://introvertsguideto.com/ // Instagram/Twitter/Facebook: @introvertguide2 // Tune in wherever you listen to your podcasts!  Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre  If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cup-of-hemlock-theatre/support

Welcome back to the 182nd episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 182nd episode we bring you a Duet Review of The Rear Window, written and directed by Emily Dix – adapted from Alfred Hitchcock's 1954 film of the same name, as well the original short story, “It Had to Be Murder” by Cornell Woolrich – presented by Bygone Theatre, in association with Hart House Theatre. Join Mackenzie Horner and Ryan Borochovitz, as they discuss the cinematic gaze, the evolution of surveillance, and the art of impersonating Jimmy Stewart.  The Rear Window is playing at Hart House Theatre (7 Hart House Circle, Toronto, ON) until May 31st, 2024. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://harthouse.ca/theatre/on-stage CONTENT WARNING: The Rear Window contains discussions intimate partner violence and substance abuse; this review, likewise, speaks directly to these topics. Viewer discretion is strongly advised. Less importantly, this review contains many SPOILERS for The Rear Window (both on stage and screen). It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [16:27] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Bygone's promotional video demonstrating the technology used in this production (from the QR code in the program): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tu6SKJwygpg&ab_channel=BygoneTheatre Follow our panelists: Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeat Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeN Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAu Ryan Borochovitz – [Just send all that love to CoH instead; he won't mind!] Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cup-of-hemlock-theatre/support