January 25–27, 2026 | Theatre Aquarius | Hamilton, Ontario
This isn’t your average summit.
It’s three jam-packed days of bold ideas, electric showcases, and big-picture conversations that will shape the future of musical theatre in Canada.
We’re bringing together composers, lyricists, book writers, producers, directors, dramaturgs, presenters, and theatre leaders to spark collaboration and ignite innovation.
Arresting showcases of new musicals in development
Panels & provocations with leading voices in the sector
High-impact project pitches, curated artist encounters, and industry matchmaking opportunities
Sunday: $20Monday: $50Tuesday: $50
All 3 Days: $75
Passes include all conference activities, morning coffee & pastries, and evening drinks & appetizers.
Optional – Lunch: $20 for both days or $10/day
Note: Options to purchase individuals day passes are below, on their respective dates
5:00–6:30 PMRegistration & Appetizers
Drinks and light fare in the Theatre Aquarius lobby.
7:00–9:00 PMNew Musical Cabaret
Start the summit with an engaging and entertaining cabaret celebrating the best of new musical theatre developed here at Theatre Aquarius!
9:30–10:30 AMMorning Meet & Mingle
Grab a coffee, sip some tea, enjoy a pastry (or two), and connect with fellow creators in the lobby.
10:45–11:30 AMPresentation 1: The Danish Guest
Book By: Steven GallagherMusic and Lyrics By: Anton Lipovetsky
In 1857, during a chaotic five-week visit to Charles Dickens, Hans Christian Andersen unsettles Dickens’s home life and exposes the cracks in his marriage, yet this unexpected encounter reignites Dickens’s creativity, as Andersen’s unique charm and childlike perspective inspire a literary rebirth that will profoundly impact both men for the rest of their lives.
11:40–12:00 PMPresentation 2: The 7 Fires
Book By: Dillan ChiblowMusic By: Landon DoakLyrics By: Landon Doak with Dillan Chiblow
Inspired by the Anishinaabe 7 Fire prophecy, 7 strangers meet in the woods where they receive dreams from their Ancestors, a story of reconnecting, prophecy and resurgence.
12:00–1:00 PM — Lunch Break
Take a well-deserved break and enjoy a curated lunch from a few of Hamilton’s favourite local spots. In a city obsessed with food culture, this midday feast serves up a true taste of the Hammer’s culinary scene.
1:00–2:30 PMPresentation 3: The Pryce Academy
Book, Music and Lyrics By: Mazin Elsadig & Philip McKee. Additional Music By: Juan Ayala & Jennifer Ayala Moore.At an elite prep school in present day North America, a progressive new curriculum asks students to start a business that is both ethical and profitable.
2:45–4:00 PMPanel: New Musicals- From Idea to Production
What does it really take to bring a new musical to life? Hear from leading producers as they share real-world insights, creative pathways, and practical advice on taking your show from first spark to full-scale production.
4:00–4:40 PMPresentation 4: Troubadour: A New Musical Showcase
Experience songs and scenes from an exciting new musical celebrating the life and legacy of Canada’s beloved troubadour, Gordon Lightfoot. This special showcase offers a first look at the music and stories inspired by the man whose songs shaped a generation.
4:45–6:00 PM — Conference Cocktails
Wrap up the day with a drink in hand, great conversation, and good vibes. Enjoy a selection of both alcoholic and zero-proof cocktails as you spark new collaborations and trade ideas with fellow creators in the theatre Aquarius Upper Bar.
Late Evening: Optional offsite dinner or social gathering.
10:00–10:30 AMMorning Meet & Mingle
10:45–11:30 AMPresentation 1: The Blue Castle
Book and Lyrics By: Saleema NawazMusic By: Scott Christian
Based on Lucy Maud Montgomery’s timeless romance and set in early 1900s Muskoka, The Blue Castle: The Musical is the story of a woman reclaiming her power and gaining the courage to live life on her own terms – and finding purpose, friendship, and love along the way.
11:45–12:00 PMPresentation 2: Clown Riot
Story By: Christo Graham & Tyrone SavageMusic and Lyrics By : Christo GrahamClown Riot tells the spectacular true story of clowns and firemen, brawls and brothels, death-defying escape acts and a mob of angry protestants… all set against the backdrop of 1850s Toronto: a city on the brink of industrial and political revolution.
1:00–1:30 PMPresentation 3: Out
Book By: Kalos Chu. Music By: Ian Chan. Lyrics By: JuHye MunOUT is a coming-of-age drama-comedy musical that weaves together stories of three queer Asian kids in their mid-20s.
1:40–2:15 PM Panel: What does ‘Enhancement’ mean?!
Learn all about commercial producing models in Canada (and abroad) including the enhancement deal!
2:30 PM Theatre Aquarius New Musicals
Selections from It’s a Good Life If You Don’t Weaken, Beautiful Scars, Maggie, Pollyanna, and more.
$169/night Our Hamilton, Ontario hotel offers guests intimate access to the city’s premier attractions.
116 King Street West Hamilton, ON
905-527-1001. Use booking code 787181919. Queen Studio Suite: $159/night 1 Bed Suite – King or 2 doubles, LR, Kitchen: $169/night 2-Bed/2-Bath Suite (LR/Kitchen, 1 King & 2 doubles): $249/night
20 Caroline Street South Hamilton, ON
PRESENTED BY
FUNDED BY
PRIVATE FUNDERS
Rob Braley
Judith King-Siganski
Philip Lowry & Mel Athulathmudali