Island productions

Four shows full of Island talent will play at The Mack starting this summer as part of The 2025 Charlottetown Festival, in addition to Tell Tale Harbour and Million Dollar Quartet at the Sobey Family Theatre, the Centre’s main stage. The four Island productions feature comedy, music, and Indigenous storytelling. 

“Shows at The Mack, created by and starring Islanders, consistently resonate with Centre audiences,” says Adam Brazier, the Centre’s artistic director of performing arts. “Confederation Centre of the Arts continually fosters Island storytelling and is proud to nurture the ongoing development of Atlantic Canadian voices.”

Based on the book written by Lennox Island’s Richard Pellissier-Lush, The Creator’s Plan explores his coming of age as a Mi’kmaw. Richard grew up looking different than other Indigenous children, but his mother continually reminded him that he was part of the Creator’s plan and empowered him to embrace his culture, no matter what he looked like. Performed by the Mi’kmaq Heritage Actors, this story of encouragement and identity is told in an interactive show for all ages. The Creator’s Plan runs until August 1 with admission by donation. 

Island comedian and storyteller Justin Shaw will return to the Festival with Have Jokes, Will Travel—a new show with hilarious tales that celebrate the experience of being an Islander on the mainland. Shaw is back after a sold-out run of 70 Mile Yard Sale last summer, as well as a hit Christmas show. Have Jokes, Will Travel runs July 12–26. 

Written by Canadian playwright Mark Crawford, Chase the Ace is a solo comedy show featuring 17 colourful characters in a hilarious story of greed and a local lottery. Directed by Charlottetown’s Charlotte Gowdy, the show follows a big-city radio personality who is forced to take a gig managing a small-town station after losing his job. A global pandemic begins during his first week, and he finds himself chasing a story of municipal corruption. Chase the Ace runs July 30–August 9. 

Islander Jessica Gallant returns with the heartfelt and high-energy cabaret show Becoming Dolly. She takes a musical journey through the life of country music legend Dolly Parton with toe-tapping renditions of iconic songs like “9 to 5,” “Coat of Many Colours,” “Jolene,” and more. Becoming Dolly runs August 13–30. 

For tickets, vist the Centre’s box office, confederationcentre.com/festival25, or phone at 1-800-565-0278.