Cup of Hemlock Theatre Podcast

Welcome back to the 273rd 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 273rd episode we bring you a Duet Review of An Intervention by Mike Bartlet, directed by 郝邦宇 Steven Hao, and presented in its Toronto premiere as the inaugural production by Downstage Theatre Company. Join Mackenzie Horner and Ryan Borochovitz, as they discuss resourceful staging solutions, questionable wordplay, and the high costs of producing indie theatre. An Intervention ran at Native Earth Performing Arts' Giisiz Studio (585 Dundas St E, Toronto, ON) from February 11th to 15th, 2026. More information about the production can be found on the company's Instagram, @downstage.theatreco CONTENT WARNING: An Intervention contains themes, discussions, and depictions of substance abuse (particularly alcoholism) and suicide; this review, likewise, speaks directly to these topics. Viewer discretion is strongly advised. Less importantly, this review contains many SPOILERS for An Intervention. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [32:44] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. Though the run has already ended, you may still choose to 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/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://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 – Introduction 3:26 – Pre-Spoiler: TTC Be Crazy Sometimes 4:17 – P-S: Synopsis, Pt.1 12:05 – P-S: What Did I Miss?17:26 – P-S: General Appraisal 24:17 – P-S: How Old? 28:07 – P-S: Production Elements 32:43 – SPOILERS from here on out 33:14 – Synopsis, Pt.2 43:08 – Not Thinking Clearly 45:15 – Wordplay (ft. Mike Bartlett's Cock) 53:23 – Vagueness vs. Obliqueness 57:33 – Red Rope & Neckties 1:01:39 – The Moment After 1:02:48 – Toward a More Affordable Future 1:08:09 – Sign Off

Welcome back to the 272nd 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 272nd episode we bring you a Duet Review of White Rabbit, Red Rabbit by Nassim Soleimanpour, presented by One Four One Collective, Nassim Soleimanpour Productions, and The Assembly Theatre. Co-Artistic Producer Mackenzie Horner is joined by new guest panelist Sophie Loosley-Millman to unpack this no-rehearsal, no-director, no-set theatrical experiment—where a different performer each night opens a sealed envelope and reads the script for the first time live on stage. Featuring Anand Rajaram as the performer they saw, the duo explores his unique take, the symbolism woven through the text, and whether Sophie would teach the play in her classroom.White Rabbit, Red Rabbit is playing at The Assembly Theatre (1479 Queen St. W., Toronto, ON) until February 20th, 2026. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.theassemblytheatre.com/whiterabbitredrabbit This review contains many SPOILERS for White Rabbit, Red Rabbit. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [12:25] 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: Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeatApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeNSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAu Sophie Loosley-Millman – Instagram: @soph.lmFollow 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: Romeo's Butt 4:32 – Pre-Spoiler12:17 – SPOILERS from here on out 12:37 – Remember the Order 15:56 – Beast Fable 21:06 – Unreliable Narrators 22:34 – One of the classic blunders! 26:28 – Anand Rajaram 29:34 – Language Barrier 31:57 – Say Uncle 35:34 – Grade 1237:55 – Sign Off

Welcome back to the 271st 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 271st episode we have a new artist interview. This particular conversation is between our Associate Artistic Producer Jillian Robinson and Julia Cratchley, the Choreographer & Artistic Director of the epic immersive dance company, Transcen|Dance Project. Together these two unveil the behind-the-scenes magic of immersive performance, discuss how paramount remounts are, and map out the benefit of indulging the good with the bad.Follow Transcen|Dance Project – Instagram/TikTok: @transcendanceprojectWebsite : https://www.transcendanceproject.com/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 270th 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 270th episode we have an episode of “The Cup: Editorial” in which Co-Artistic Producers Ryan Borochovitz and Mackenzie Horner pull together various threads that have been on our mind around the topic of Shakespeare on film prompted in part by the Oscar buzz around Chloé Zhao's Hamnet. What does it mean for a movie to be (or not to be) Hamlet? Is Disney's The Lion King really as Hamlet-ish as your cool English teacher would have you believe? What are some pitches for new Shakespearean film adaptations we'd like to see? Join Ryan Borochovitz and Mackenzie Horner, as they discuss everything from Hamnet to Hamlet, Burton to Branagh, and Pride Rock to pumpkin pants. Follow our panelists: Mackenzie Horner – Instagram: (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 us 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: no hat upon his head (2.1.89)2:36 – The Topic at Hand9:14 – To be (or not to be) Definitive 19:59 – Hamnet (Non-Spoilers) 24:45 – Weird Hamlets & Classic Hamlets 31:19 – Hakuna Matata 50:17 – To be (or not to be) Hamlet 1:11:42 – The Northman 1:17:22 – End of Act 1 1:21:40 – Let's Do Some Fun Buzzfeed 1:22:30 – M1: Merry Wives of Windsor (dir. Paul Feig) 1:26:38 – R1: Bikebeth (dir. Robert Lepage) 1:32:52 – M2: Bike-us Andronicus 1:38:24 – R2: Denzel's Othello 1:41:05 – M3: Richard II 1:47:04 – R3: Comedy of Error (dir. NOT Joss Whedon) 1:51:30 – M4: A Claymation Night's Dream 1:53:40 – Conclusion: What Can You Do Differently? 1:57:36 – Sign Off

Welcome back to the 269th 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 269th episode we bring you a Round-up Review of Dead of Winter, produced by Eldritch Theatre and Spindle Collective. Join Jillian Robinson and Mackenzie Horner, as they discuss 6 new spooky and gory stories, supported by ominous musicality, each highlighting fear through fantasy and reality. Dead of Winter was the first Toronto horror theatre festival and played at Red Sandcastle Theatre (922 Queen St. E., Toronto, ON.) from January 21-25, 2026. More information about the show can be found at: https://deadofwinterprogram.my.canva.site/This review contains SPOILERS. The episode will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [07:47] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. This iteration of the production has ended but if the production gets remounted in the future, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk.TIMESTAMP NAVIGATOR: 0:00 – Intro 2:49 – Festival Overview (Pre-Spoiler) 7:25 – SPOILERS from here on out 8:13 – spilleHOLLE 12:05 – The Matchmaker 16:52 – Musical Interlude: Andra Zlatescu 18:41 – The Hag of Bell Island 24:15 – Perfect Pains 29:08 – Jimmy 34:24 – Musical Interlude: Morgara 36:16 – Mercy of the Vampire 41:31 – Sign Off Follow our panelists:Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Mackenzie Horner – Instagram: (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: @BeforetheDownbeatApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeNSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAuFollow 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 268th 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 268th episode we bring you a Duet Review of Make Banana Cry choreographed by Andrew Tay and Stephen Thompson. Join Jillian Robinson and Randy Lei Chang, as they discuss the performative workings of pace, absurdity, and isolating body politic theatricality that illuminate the Western xenophobia toward Asian culture. Make Banana Cry was a Toronto Dance Theatre production in partnership with Buddies in Bad Times Theatre and played at Buddies in Bad Times Theatre (12 Alexander St., Toronto, ON.) from January 14-17, 2026. More information about the show can be found at: https://buddiesinbadtimes.com/show/make-banana-cry/This review contains SPOILERS. The episode will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [11:53] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. This iteration of the production has ended but if the production gets remounted in the future, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk.Follow our panelists:Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Randy Lei Chang – Instagram: @_r0ndy_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/inquiriesto coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com

Welcome back to the 267th 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 267th episode we bring you a Duet Review of the musical Company, written by Stephen Sondheim (music and lyrics) and George Furth (book), presented by Talk Is Free Theatre, directed by Dylan Trowbridge, and starring Aidan deSalaiz in the role of Bobby. Join Ryan Borochovitz and special guest Lori Ossip, as they discuss concept musicals, queer intimacies, and invisible props. Company is playing at the Theatre Centre (1115 Queen St W, Toronto, ON) until February 8th, 2026. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://theatrecentre.org/event/company-talk-is-free/ This review contains many SPOILERS for Company. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [36:34] 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: Lori Ossip – Blog: https://girllikestheatre.com/ // NEXT Mag: https://nextmag.ca/search/%22lori+ossip%22 Ryan Borochovitz – NEXT Mag: 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

Happy New Year and welcome back to the 266th 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 266th episode we bring you a very special episode of “The Cup: Editorial” in which we kick off 2026 with a very specialepisode where we look back on the year that'spassed, the plays we loved, and the episodes weproduced. Join our Golden Trio (@jillian.robinson96,@mackenzie_horner, and @ryanborochovitz ) as theyraise their cups and give a final cheer to 2025!Here's a list of all the episodes from 2025 that we shout out in this episode (in order of first mention). If any of them piqued your interest, give them a watch/listen: Last Year's New Year Editorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EFbj9OcwkYU She's the Man (Screened Play): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLROdb5QKno The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie (Screened Play): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1suZULFP2Yg Celebrity Casting Editorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bJDEtdeL5Gw Theatre, Sitcoms, and SNL Editorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kFEASVrYnQ4 Doubt: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XlIkl3Rvzz4 Toronto Fringe Review Roundup 2025 Pt.1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CtBoqIHnLCI Toronto Fringe Review Roundup 2025 Pt.2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2UkeDPQXM8w Toronto Fringe Review Roundup 2025 Pt.3: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w46JrYXmiP0 The 25th Annual Putman County Spelling Bee: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kSn6aGoS9ck A Public Display of Affection: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OdrQ6GAxDQI Romeo Pimp: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jCNUqbr7sfA Born-Again Crow: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6wtY7LzGg0Q Shrek the Musical: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JdfkQKxlfy8 MONKS: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O19CrIz4EL8 The Threepenny Opera: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4uO16YDR9xU Ophis: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iA0ptZKOJuY Wing Chun Dance Drama: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EzY-bUrrSaQ Moonlight Schooner: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zKqMOx8IGZk Game of Life: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9DHd3lzDt2Y The Green Line: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ixPUf-PP9o tick, tick…BOOM!: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gdw3Az4h9mE Tatum Lee & Lizzie Moffatt Interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cXCtnMtu9tE Last Landscape: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vXrxk0HGuHw Bug: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SXu3ep5ElJ4 A Christmas Carol: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQg6urySq2s Invasion: Christmas Carol: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NmmXqrAgHfY Follow our panelists: Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeatApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeNSpotify: 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://nextmag.ca/search/borochovitzFollow us 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 265th 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 265th episode we bring you a Duet Review of Wing Chun Dance Drama directed & choreographed by Han Zhen and Zhou Liya. Join Jillian Robinson and Bri Clarke, as they discuss the pillars of humanity: a dance of feminine & masculine, encased in speed & stillness, aspiring to stand in the beam of radiant light. Wing Chun Dance Drama is playing at Meridian Hall (1 Front St. E., Toronto, ON) until January 4, 2026. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.wingchundancedrama.com/performancesThis review contains SPOILERS. The episode will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [19:57] 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 Bri Clarke – Instagram: @brianna_clarkee // Website : www.briclarke.ca // Podcast : @artversationspod // Sze-Yang Ade-Lam (Wing Chun teacher in Toronto) Instagram : @likewaterwingchunFollow 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 264th 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 264th episode we bring you a Duet Review of A Christmas Carol written by Charles Dickens, directed by Chloë Rose Flowers, presented by King Theatre Company / Trisan Construction. Join Jillian Robinson and Emily Cornelius, as they discuss this all-around beautiful depiction of the timeless classic that once again proves to bless us, everyone!. A Christmas Carol is playing at the Schomberg Community Hall (325 Main St., Schomberg, ON) from December 13 - December 21, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.kingtheatre.ca/christmascarolThis review contains SPOILERS. The episode will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [13:08] 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 Emily Cornelius – Instagram: @emilycorn94 // Upcoming show : Dance Nation @outside_the_march, @coalminetheatre at Coal Mine Theatre from April 12 - May 3, 2026. Tickets can be purchased from the following link : https://tickets.coalminetheatre.com/event/330:21/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 263rd 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 263rd episode we bring you a Duet Review of Invasion: Christmas Carol, a Dickensian holiday improv extravaganza presented by Knifefight Theatre in association with One Four One Collective and the Assembly Theatre. Join Jillian Robinson and Ryan Borochovitz, as they discuss Victorian japes, demonic babies, and the sex life of Ebenezer Scrooge.Invasion: Christmas Carol is playing at the Assembly Theatre (1479 Queen St W, Toronto, ON) until December 14th, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.theassemblytheatre.com/invasionchristmascarol Follow Knifefight Theatre to read about all of the other invaders you may have missed: @knifefighttheatre 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 262nd 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 262nd episode we bring you a Duet Review of Moonlight Schooner, written by Kanika Ambrose, directed by Sabryn Rock, a Necessary Angel Theatre Company production in association with Canadian Stage and Tarragon Theatre. Join Associated Artistic Producer Jillian Robinson and new guest Divine Angubua as they discuss the importance of identifying the individual, the need for community, and the necessary role of text & movement to penetrate the never ending cycle of colonial oppression. Moonlight Schooner is playing at Berkeley Street Theatre (26 Berkeley St.) from November 21st to December 14th, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://my.canadianstage.com/overview/9330 This review contains many SPOILERS for Moonlight Schooner. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [14:53] 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 Divine Angubua– Instagram: @ angubua_for_presidentFollow 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 261st 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 261st episode we bring you a Duet Review of he Unauthorized Hallmark(ish) Parody Musical, with book by Tim Drucker and Bonnie Milligan, music by Joel Waggoner and lyrics by Tim Drucker, Bonnie Milligan and Joel Waggoner, directed by Tim Drucker, produced by Paquin Exhibitions & Theatrical and presented by FEVER. Join Co-Artistic Producer Mackenzie Horner and Associate Artistic Producer Jillian Robinson, as they discuss all the clever homages to Hallmark Christmas movie tropes, the show's very catchy songs, and the twist ending! The Unauthorized Hallmark(ish) Parody Musical is playing at The Royal Theatre (608 College Street, Toronto, M6G 1B4) from November 20th, 2025 to January 4th, 2026. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://bit.ly/3MGQx1rThis review contains many SPOILERS for The Unauthorized Hallmark(ish) Parody Musical. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [13:50] 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/3sAbjAu Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96Follow 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 260th 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 260th episode we bring you a Duet Review of BUG, written by Tracy Letts, directed by Andrew Cameron, presented by The King Black Box in partnership with Elkabong Theatre Projects. Join Co-Artistic Producer Mackenzie Horner and new panelist Istvan Dugalin, as they discuss the tricks of stage combat and how brilliantly this production pulled it off, if this production should have kept the intermission break, and all the details and hidden symbolism woven into the production design of this piece. BUG is playing at The King Black Box (1224 King Street West, 3rd floor -no elevator) from Nov 28th to Dec 13th. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.thekingblackbox.com/event-details/bug-by-tracy-letts-2025-12-13-20-00 This review contains many SPOILERS for BUG. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [17:18] 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/3sAbjAu Istvan Dugalin – Instagram: @istvandugalinWebsite: https://istvandugalin.com/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 259th 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 259th episode we bring you a Duet Review of Shrek the Musical, with book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire and music by Jeanine Tesori, directed by Herbie Barnes, presented by Young People's Theatre. Join host and Co-Artistic Producer Mackenzie Horner and Associate Artistic Producer Jillian Robinson, as they discuss the strengths of YPT's abridged adaptation, the majesty and ingenuity of this production's dragon puppet and the inventive ways the show found its balance between individuality and honouring the past films and major productions that proceeded it.Shrek the Musical is playing on the Ada Slaight Stage (165 Front Street East, Toronto, ON M5A 3Z4) from Nov 13th – Dec 30th, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.youngpeoplestheatre.org/tickets/shrek/This review contains many SPOILERS for Shrek the Musical. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [16:18] 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/3sAbjAu Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96Follow 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 258th 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 258th episode we bring you a Duet Review of tick, tick…BOOM! by Jonathan Larson, directed by Meredith Shedden, presented by Bowtie Productions. Join Ryan Borochovitz and special guest Lori Ossip, as they discuss non-competitive indie producing, footnotes to RENT, and how to traverse New York City by public transit.tick, tick…BOOM! is playing at Alumnae Theatre (70 Berkeley St, Toronto, ON) until November 15th, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://bowtieproductions.ca/tick%2C-tick-boom-1 This review contains many SPOILERS for tick, tick…BOOM! It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [32:31] 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: Lori Ossip – Blog: https://girllikestheatre.com/ // NEXT Mag: https://nextmag.ca/search/%22lori+ossip%22 Ryan Borochovitz – NEXT Mag: 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 257th 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 257th episode we bring you a Duet Review of Dissonant Species, written by Heather Marie Annis and Michael Gordon Spence, directed by Jacquie P.A. Thomas, and presented by Theatre Gargantua. Join host and Co-Artistic Producer Mackenzie Horner and Associate Artistic Producer Jillian Robinson as they discuss the show's bold fusion of sound, movement, and emotion; the deeply personal and resonant monologues that explore connection, anxiety, and self-expression; and the ensemble's masterful collaboration in crafting a visceral, immersive sonic experience.Dissonant Species is playing at Factory Theatre (125 Bathurst Street, Toronto, Ontario M5V 2R2) from November 6th to November 23rd. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://purchase.factorytheatre.ca/EventAvailability?EventId=50602 This review contains many SPOILERS for Dissonant Species. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [16:14] 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/3sAbjAu Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96Follow 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 256th 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 256th episode we have a new artist interview. This particular conversation is between our Co-Artistic Producer Mackenzie Horner and the Director, Costume and Production Designer of the production Romeo Pimp which we recently covered and the Artistic Director of The King Black Box Sophie Ann Rooney. Together they unpack Sophie's creative process — from conceptualizing and designing a piece to bringing Romeo Pimp to life. The conversation dives behind the scenes into rehearsal-room stories, explores the layers of symbolism Sophie wove into the production, and delves into her reflections on what happens when some audience members miss the subtle details embedded in her work.CONTENT WARNING: This conversion about the play Romeo Pimp contains depictions, references, or implications of sexual exploitation & trafficking, grooming & psychological abuse, mental health & dissociation, substance use, violence, threats & intimidation, verbal & sexualized language themes of consent, power, and identity. If you are a victim or survivor of human trafficking, or think someone might be, please contact the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline to be connected with support services or law enforcement in your community. The Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline can be reached 24/7 by phone at 1-833-900-1010 or online at www.canadianhumantraffickinghotline.ca.Follow Sophie Ann Rooney – Instagram: @shotbylofaFollow The King Black Box – Instagram: @thekingblackboxFollow 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 255th 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 255th episode we bring you a Duet Review of Doubt: A Parable by John Patrick Shanley, presented by Wren Theatre, directed by Tatum Lee, and starring Bonnie Anderson, Robert Notman, Lizzie Moffatt, and Jessica Myrie. Join Mackenzie Horner and Ryan Borochovitz, as they relitigate a controversial opinion, unspool some twine, and applaud uniquely humanized performances. Doubt: A Parable is playing at the Annex Theatre (730 Bathurst St, Toronto, ON) until October 25th, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.wrentheatre.com/doubt-a-parable CONTENT WARNING: Doubt is concerned with themes of child abuse, sexual violence, homophobia, racism, and paedophilia. As a result, this review, likewise, speaks directly to many of these topics. Viewer discretion is advised. 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/borochovitzFollow 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 254th 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 254th episode we have a new artist interview. This particular conversation is between our Associate Artistic Producer Jillian Robinson and Meaghan Salmon the artistic director and co-founder of Sunbeam Theatre Company, and director of their upcoming production of Antigone. Together they discuss the importance of creating your own doors to walk through, implementing a game plan, and paying homage to humanity's universal truths. Antigone is running from November 5th to 9th, 2025 at the Factory Theatre (125 Bathurst St, Toronto, ON). Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://purchase.factorytheatre.ca/EventAvailability?EventId=50802 Artsworker discount code: ANTIGONE15 Follow Meaghan – All platforms: @meaghan_salmon Follow Sunbeam – Instagram/Facebook/Threads/TikTok: @sunbeamtheatre.co // Website: https://www.sunbeamtheatrecompany.ca/ 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 253rd 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 253rd episode we bring you a Duet Review of Blackbird, written by David Harrower, directed by Dean Deffett, starring Cyrus Lane and Kirstyn Russelle, presented by Talk Is Free Theatre. Join Jillian Robinson and Ryan Borochovitz, as they praise performances, untangle ambiguities, and unpack the trash.Blackbird is playing at Hope United Church (2550 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON) until October 18th, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.tift.ca/shows/blackbird CONTENT WARNING: Blackbird contains themes of pedophilia, statutory rape, and sexual abuse; this review, likewise, speaks directly to these topics. Viewer discretion is advised. Less importantly, this review contains many SPOILERS for Blackbird. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [24:08] 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.com.

Welcome back to the 252nd 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 252nd episode we bring you a Duet Review of The Green Line, written and directed by Makram Ayache, presented by In Arms Theatre Company and MENA Collective, in association with Buddies in Bad Times and Factory Theatre. Join Jillian Robinson and Ryan Borochovitz, as they discuss braided histories, dances with duality, and the beauty that can emerge in a violent rupture.The Green Line is playing at Buddies in Bad Times Theatre (12 Alexander Street, Toronto, ON) until October 4th, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://buddiesinbadtimes.com/show/the-green-line/ This review contains many SPOILERS for The Green Line. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [12:38] 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. 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 251st 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 251st episode we bring you a Duet Review of Enormity, Girl, & the Earthquake in Her Lungs written by Chelsea Woolley, directed by Andrea Donaldson, presented by Nightwood Theatre in association with Tarragon Theatre. Join host Jillian Robinson and special guest Katie Crompton, as they discuss the necessity to connect, forgive, and empower the past, present, and future self. Enormity, Girl, and the Earthquake in Her Lungs is playing at the Nancy & Ed Jackman Performance Centre (877 Yonge St.) from September 16 to October 5, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://tapestryopera.my.salesforce-sites.com/ticket/#/events/a0SOF000000KwCj2AK TW: Enormity presents the traumatic impact of child abuse, including physical, sexual, and psychological. It is not graphically depicted in the show, but we discuss these themes in this review. Less importantly, this review contains SPOILERS. The episode will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [00:05:33] 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 Katie Crompton – Instagram: @katiecrompton // Upcoming Show : Antigone with @sunbeamtheatre.co at Factory Theatre from November 6th - 9th. Tickets on sale soon! Keep an eye on Sunbeam's Instagram for the latest updates! 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/inquiriesto coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com.

Welcome back to the 250th 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 250th episode we bring you a Duet Review of Romeo Pimp, written by Jesse McQueen, directed by Sophie Ann Rooney, presented by The King Black Box in partnership with One East Productions. Join Co-Artistic Producer Mackenzie and Jadyn Nasato as they unpack the layered details and symbolism woven throughout the production, reflect on the power that the intimacy of the theatre space brought to the piece, and explore the impact of the choice to leave Jamie's father unseen.Romeo Pimp is playing at The King Black Box (1224 King Street West, Unit #300-3rd floor, Toronto, ON, M6K 1G4) from September 17th to October 4th. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.thekingblackbox.com/event-details/romeo-pimp-by-jesse-mcqueen-world-premiere-2025-09-24-20-00 CONTENT WARNING: Romeo Pimp contains depictions, references, or implications of sexual exploitation & trafficking, grooming & psychological abuse, mental health & dissociation, substance use, violence, threats & intimidation, verbal & sexualized language themes of consent, power, and identity. If you are a victim or survivor of human trafficking, or think someone might be, please contact the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline to be connected with support services or law enforcement in your community. The Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline can be reached 24/7 by phone at 1-833-900-1010 or online at www.canadianhumantraffickinghotline.ca.Less importantly, this review contains many SPOILERS for Romeo Pimp. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [25:43] 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. Follow our panelists: Mackenzie Horner –Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeatApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeN Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAu Jadyn Nasato – Instagram: @jadyn.nasatoHeadshots Studio– Instagram: @hdshts.studiosFollow 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 247th 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 247th episode we have a new artist interview. This particular conversation is between our our Co-Artistic Producer Mackenzie and the sketch comedy troupe members Rami Khan of Potato Potato and Becky Ablack of Small Friend Tall Friend. Both of whom are fresh off their appearance in the very first installment of Spotlight at The Second City—a brand-new Toronto series where the city's best and emerging sketch troupes present their sharpest 30 minutes. Together these three discuss their comedy origin stories, favourite political impressions, how they built their Spotlight sets, and the art of tackling divisive topics in today's polarized world.Spotlight at The Second City series continues on a monthly basis at The Second City Toronto (1 York Street, Toronto, ON, Canada). Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.secondcity.com/shows/toronto/spotlight-at-the-second-city-tor Follow Rami Khan – Instagram: @ ramikhan_ Follow Potato Potato – Instagram: @ potatopotatopresents Follow Becky Ablack – Instagram: @beckyablack Follow Small Friend Tall Friend – Instagram: @ smallfriend.tallfriend // Website: https://smallfriendtallfriend.carrd.co/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAafsjHnr8eQyr9vgXM83m_5XKg56qsN4tPQpEYu5c9iuilpQTe2kpTfBDVaYZQ_aem_OXTGv8nnBOL-_XT83fxYmA 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 248th 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 248th episode we have an episode of “The Cup: Editorial” in which Co-Artistic Producer Ryan Borochovitz and returning guest Dewy Stewart pull together various threads that have been on our mind around concepts of comedy, liveness, mass media, and mass culture – which all converge into an examination of the relationship between theatre, sitcoms, and Saturday Night Live. These two discuss live studio audiences, the boundaries of comedy, and possible futures for a less exclusionary artform.Follow our panelists: Dewey Stewart – Instagram: @deweystew & @brucecomedy 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 us 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 247th 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 247th episode we have a new artist interview. This particular conversation is between our Associate Artistic Producer Jillian Robinson and Yvonne Ng, major multi-hyphenate artist including Artistic Director of tiger princess dance projects and founder of Dance Made in Canada / Fait au Canada. These two discuss he power of curiosity, belonging, and being the f*%cking bird!Follow tigerprincessdanceprojects – Instagram/Facebook: @tigerprincessdanceprojects 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 246th 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 246th episode we bring you a Duet Review of episode 8 of The Roll Players, a real DnD campaign played by ‘the best improvisers in the world', dungeon mastered by Kris Siddiqi, played by Andy Hull, Sarah Hillier, & Sharjil Rasool, NPC'd by Aurora Browne. Lisa Merchant, & Paul Bates. Join Jillian Robinson and Raechel Fisher, as they roll for initiative, break down DnD basics, and relay a fantastically funny evening out.The campaign continues! The Roll Players plays at Comedy Bar Danforth (2800 Danforth Ave.) once a month, typically the last Tuesday of each month. Tickets can be purchasedfrom the following link: https://comedybar.ca/shows/the-roll-playersBecause this particular show is a one-off, improvised installment of the overall DnD campaign, we unpack all of the details of the show in this episode. Follow our panelists:Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Raechel Fisher – Instagram: @raefisher411 // Twitch: COMING SOON, stay tuned via Instagram // Feature Movie : A Knight's War - https://www.primevideo.com/detail/A-Knights-War/0G4QDTZWHOW5SV3DJSTXRB0EI3Follow 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 245th 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 245th episode we have a new artist interview. This particular conversation is between our Co-Artistic Producer Ryan and Artistic Director Michael Caldwell and Managing Director Morgan Norwich, the dynamic duo currently stewarding the SummerWorks Performance Festival, which just concluded its 35th anniversary season. Together these three discuss serendipitous programming, the anatomy of a yearly theme, and being at service to an artistic community.Follow SummerWorks – All Socials: @summerworksfun & #summerworksfun // Website: https://summerworks.ca/ Follow Michael – All Socials: @mahkemahke Follow Morgan('s Boylesque troupe) – Instagram: @boylesqueto // Website: https://www.boylesqueto.com/ 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 244th 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 244th episode we bring you a Duet Review of Tuesdays with Morrie, written by Jeffrey Hatcher & Mitch Albom, directed by Chloë Rose Flowers, presented by King Theatre Company. Join Jillian Robinson and Emily Cornelius, as they discuss the importance of supporting new theatre companies and choosing your own life adventure, all while leading with love and a good cry.Tuesdays with Morrie is playing at Pine Farms Orchard, King City from August 13th-28th, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.kingtheatre.ca/tuesdayswithmorrieThis review contains many SPOILERS for Tuesdays with Morrie. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the 00:10:27 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.Follow our panelists:Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillianrobinson.96Emily Cornelius – Instagram: @emilycorn94 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/inquiriesto coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com

Welcome back to the 243rd 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 243rd episode we have an episode of “The Cup: Editorial” in which Co-Artistic Producers Mackenzie and Ryan discuss famous faces, the history of exorbitant ticket prices, and what Canadian producers might be able to learn from the success of Denzel Washington's Othello on Broadway. 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 us 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 242nd 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 242nd episode we have a new artist interview. This particular conversation is between our Co-Artistic Producer Mackenzie and Garrett M. Ryan Abrams and Robert Leitner—the Artistic Director and Artistic Producer of Bird On Stage Productions—who also serve as the Co-Directors, Playwright, and performer of the play ‘PIGEON!'. Together they explore the power and universal experience of loneliness, delve into the process of writing, directing, and performing this dark yet at times comedic work, and share their favourite birds.PIGEON! is playing at The Assembly Theatre (1479 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6R 1A1) from August 21st- 24th. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.tixtree.com/e/bird-on-stages-pigeon-944d1b2b0e12 Follow Robert Leitner – Instagram: @robby.leitner Follow Garrett M. Ryan Abrams – Instagram: @garrettmabramsFollow Bird On Stage Productions– Instagram: @ birdonstage// Website: https://www.birdonstage.com/pigeon Garrett M. Ryan Abrams and Robert LeitnerFollow 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 241st 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 241st episode we bring you the third and final instalment of our very special three-part Toronto Fringe 2025 Review Roundup. Join Jillian Robinson, Mackenzie Horner, and Ryan Borochovitz as they try to blitz through the final fourteen 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=CtBoqIHnLCI And Part 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2UkeDPQXM8w TIMESTAMP NAVIGATOR: 0:00:00 – Intro 0:05:31 – Singing Psychic Game Show 0:12:13 – This Show Will Change Your Life 0:19:20 – Potato Potato 0:26:48 – My Pet Lizard, Liz: The Shakespearean Existential Crisis that Led to His Ultimate Demise 0:35:32 – The Perils of Being Born in the Fall 0:43:38 – Don't Fall In 0:48:54 – Lucian, Plato, and the Secrets of the Pussy 0:55:27 – Regarding Antigone 1:06:11 – In the Diving Bell 1:16:48 – At the End of Kaliyuga 1:24:41 – Me and You and the Highland Coo 1:34:29 – Killy Willy 1:43:34 – David Lynch's Seinfeld 1:52:42 – Ctrl Alt Delete: An Alphabetical Musical 2:04:59 – Final Thoughts on Toronto Fringe 2025 2:11:04 – Sign Off 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 Ryan Borochovitz – Instagram: @ryanborochovitz [don't expect anything interesting over there]; if you enjoy his theatre thoughts, more can be found at https://nextmag.ca/search/borochovitz; see also, his article about clowns at the Toronto Fringe, published in Intermission Magazine: https://www.intermissionmagazine.ca/features/fringe-clown/ 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 240th 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 240th episode we bring you the second instalment of our very special three-part Toronto Fringe 2025 Review Roundup. Join Jillian Robinson and Ryan Borochovitz as they try to blitz through the next fourteen 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=CtBoqIHnLCI Stay tuned for Part 3, coming soon! TIMESTAMP NAVIGATOR: 0:00:00 – Intro 0:02:02 – #1 Clown Comedy with Victor & Priscilla 0:12:04 – Sweet and Sultry Burlesque 0:20:41 – Sex Goddess 0:29:44 – Have Fun Kids 0:46:27 – Siranoush 0:53:25 – Very Shady Arab Ladies 1:01:10 – Bob Marley: How Reggae Changed the World 1:14:04 – String of Pearls 1:32:33 – Fish Tales: Reel Stories, Reel Magic, You'll Be Hooked! 1:41:06 – Mutual Aim 1:53:47 – Quiltro 2:04:05 – Apothecary 2:26:37 – ALPHA 2:40:14 – Zeitgeist 2:59:54 – Sign Off Follow our panelists: Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96; it's not too late to see Jill performing in 500 Doubloons at the Hamilton Fringe Festival: https://hftco.ca/events/500-doubloons/ Ryan Borochovitz – Instagram: @ryanborochovitz [don't expect anything interesting over there]; if you enjoy his theatre thoughts, more can be found at https://nextmag.ca/search/borochovitz; see also, his article about clowns at the Toronto Fringe, published in Intermission Magazine: https://www.intermissionmagazine.ca/features/fringe-clown/ 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 239th 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 239th episode we bring you the first instalment of our very special multi part deep dive into Toronto Fringe 2025 Review Roundup. Join Mackenzie Horner and Ryan Borochovitz as they try to blitz through the first eighteen shows they saw at this year's festival, unpack all of their thoughts, and commemorate this moment in local theatre history for posterity! Stay tuned for Parts 2 and 3, coming soon! TIMESTAMP NAVIGATOR: 0:00:00 – Intro 0:02:17 – The Ensemble 0:09:39 – The Adding Machine 0:19:31 – The Rhinoceros Collective 0:29:25 – The Iron Mask 0:35:59 – The Zucchini Club0:42:42 – Waiting for Coffee 0:50:11 – Broken Teléfono 0:56:48 – $$$ (Money Money Money) 1:05:06 – Milk Milk Lemonade 1:10:34 – Stroke of Genius: Pantomime Masturbation throughout Performing Arts History 1:24:39 – Songs By a Wannabe 1:34:39 – Justice for Maurice Henry Carter 1:41:45 – Edgar in the Red Room 1:46:04 – Honey Never Spoils 1:55:30 – Hoody 2:00:57 – Galen's Grocer 2:08:01 – Quiz Icarus 2:17:16 – Iris (Says Goodbye) 2:44:17 – Sign Off Follow our panelists: Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeatApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeN Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAu Ryan Borochovitz – Instagram: @ryanborochovitz [don't expect anything interesting over there]; if you enjoy his theatre thoughts, more can be found at https://nextmag.ca/search/borochovitz; see also, his article about clowns at the Toronto Fringe, published in Intermission Magazine: https://www.intermissionmagazine.ca/features/fringe-clown/ 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 238th 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 238th episode we have a new artist interview. This particular conversation is between our Associate Artistic Producer Jillian Robinson and Alex Higgins one of the co-artistic directors of Falling Iguana Theatre, and the writer-director of the play Crane Girl which is soon to be presented at the Hamilton Fringe Festival. Together they discuss indie marketing magic, the indefinite lifespan of a show, and iguanas falling from trees. Crane Girl. is playing at Hamilton Fringe from July 17 to 26, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://hftco.ca/events/crane-girl/ Follow Alexa – Instagram: @alexa_m_higgins Follow Falling Iguana – Instagram/Facebook: @ fallingiguanatheatre // Website: https://www.fallingiguanatheatre.com/ 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 237th 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 237th episode we bring you a Duet Review of of Sweet Sorrow, the latest immersive theatrical experience to open in Toronto that's presented by À Toi & Coffee Oysters Champagne. Join Mackenzie Horner and special guest Alicia Plummer, as they discuss the perfect atmosphere this production has set up, how this piece compares to other immersive pieces we've previously covered, and they break down the very intense ending sequence of the show. Sweet Sorrow is playing at Coffee Oysters Champagne (214 King St W Basement Level 1, Toronto, ON M5H 3S6) every Sunday at 6:30pm and 8:30pm until early September 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sweet-sorrow-tickets-1269670491619 This review contains many SPOILERS for Sweet Sorrow. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [10:07] 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. Follow our panelists: Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeatApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeN Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAu Alicia Plummer – Instagram: @itsaliciaplummer // TikTok: hialiciabyealicia 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 237th 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 237th episode we have a new artist interview. This particular conversation is between our Co-Artistic Producer Ryan Borochovitz and Beatriz Lôbo Campos the Program Manager for the Canada Ireland Foundation. They discuss the recently wrapped the inaugural Bealtaine Theatre Festival, which ran from April 25 to May 25, 2025, the contemporary Irish theatre, the intricacies of programming, and the carnivalesque spirit of seeing weird stuff a theatre festival. Follow the Canada Ireland Foundation – Instagram: @canadairelandfoundation // Website: https://www.canadairelandfoundation.com/ Follow Beatriz – Instagram: @b_looboo 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 236th 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 236th episode we bring you a Duet Review of Genrefuck – a double-bill of two solo shows, Reina by Augusto Bitter & Never Walk Alone by Julie Phan – presented by Buddies in Bad Times Theatre. Join Jillian Robinson and Ryan Borochovitz, as they discuss brand mascots, pole dancing, and what happens when you throw blenders at the wall to see if they stick. Genrefuck is playing at Buddies in Bad Times Theatre (12 Alexander Street, Toronto, ON) until May 31st, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://buddiesinbadtimes.com/show/genrefuck/ This review contains many SPOILERS for Genrefuck, and the two shows contained therein, WITHOUT our customary separation between spoiler and non-spoiler sections. If you intend to see the production, 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.com

Welcome back to the 235th 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 235th episode we bring you a Duet Review of Tales of an Urban Indian, written by Darrell Dennis, directed by Herbie Barnes, presented in its latest iteration by Talk is Free Theatre. Join Jillian Robinson and Ryan Borochovitz, as they discuss Nolan Moberly's dynamic performance, being powerless to one's environment, and how everybody has a tale to tell.Tales of an Urban Indian is playing at Hope United Church (2550 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON) until May 31st, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.tift.ca/shows/tales-of-an-urban-indian CONTENT WARNING: Tales of an Urban Indian contains themes of alcohol and drug abuse, suicide, homophobia, and discrimination against Indigenous people; this review, likewise, speaks directly to these topics. Moreover, we acknowledge our positionality as white settlers discussing this material – up to and including the language of the play's title, which we use only in context. To share another quote from Darrell Dennis's witty and informative book, Peace Pipe Dreams (2014): “There are many names used for our people because not all of us can agree on one. We all have our own pasts, world views and prejudices that will inform the term we prefer. As a result, there will never be one term that pleases one hundred percent of Natives all the time. Sorry. Luckily, Native people have a reputation as some of the most open, accepting and forgiving people in the world. Using an improper PC term will usually be ignored as long as your conversation is respectful and comes from a place of friendship.” (pp.28-29)Less importantly, this review contains many SPOILERS for Tales of an Urban Indian. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [12:35] 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.com

Welcome back to the 233rd 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 233rd episode we have a new artist interview. This particular conversation is between our Co-Artistic Producer Ryan Borochovitz as he is joined by Tatum Lee and Lizzie Moffatt, as they're preparing to bring Wren Theatre's production of Dangerous Liaisons (Les Liaisons dangereuses) to Toronto's Annex Theatre.  Together these three discuss the topical lives of French aristocrats, non-competitive indie theatre programming, and the importance of careful intimacy direction. Dangerous Liaisons will be running at The Annex Theatre (730 Bathurst St, Toronto, ON), from May 27 to June 7, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/wren-theatre/les_liaisons_dangereuses Follow Wren Theatre – Instagram: @wrentheatre // TikTok: @wren_theatre // Website: https://www.wrentheatre.com/Follow Tatum – Instagram: @tatumlee77 Follow Lizzie – Instagram: @lizzie_moffatt  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 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