It’s a Good Life If You Don’t Weaken

Apr 22, 2026 to
May 17, 2026

2hrs 10min including intermission

Main Stage

BUY TICKETS

Apr 22, 2026 to
May 17, 2026

2hrs 10min including intermission

Main Stage



Songs by

The Tragically Hip

In partnership with Thousand Islands Playhouse

Book by Ahmed Moneka & Jesse LaVercombe  

Directed by Mary Francis Moore

Orchestrations and Music Supervision by Bob Foster

Choreography by Marc Kimelman

It’s a Good Life If You Don’t Weaken immerses audiences in a powerful original story set to the timeless music of The Tragically Hip, capturing the raw energy, heartfelt lyrics, and unmistakable spirit that have become central to Canada’s musical identity.

Set in 2002, Waleed — an exiled journalist — arrives in Canada and unexpectedly falls for Kate, the owner of a local music store. Their connection is immediate and undeniable. But when circumstances change, they are forced to confront duty, uncertainty, and what truly matters — and where they each belong.

Featuring iconic songs by The Tragically Hip, including “Bobcaygeon,” “Ahead by a Century,” New Orleans Is Sinking,” “Wheat Kings,” Grace, Too,” Blow at High Dough,” and “Courage.”

TICKET PRICES INCLUDE HST & FEES

Please note that the newly added May 6 performance is also a student matinee


Produced by permission of David and Hannah Mirvish and Michael Rubinoff

Co-Producers: The National Arts Centre and its National Creation Fund

It’s a Good Life If You Don’t Weaken was developed in partnership with Theatre Aquarius, Thousand Islands Playhouse, and further developed at The Creative School Chrysalis at Toronto Metropolitan University and in collaboration with the National Creation Fund at Canada’s National Arts Centre. 


The It’s a Good Life If You Don’t Weaken company performed on CBC Q with Tom Power, Live at the Junos.

Listen here Read the Article in Hamilton City Magazine by Meredith MacLeod

SEASON SPONSORS


TITLE SPONSOR


MEDIA PRESENTING PARTNER

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DEVELOPED WITH SUPPORT FROM THE


MARKETING SUPPORT PROVIDED BY

This event has been financially assisted by the Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund of the Government of Ontario through the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming, administered by the Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund Corporation.

Audience Advisory: Recommended for audiences aged 12+.

May contain adult language, loud bangs/noises, and smoke/haze.

PLAN YOUR VISIT
DIGITAL PROGRAM

‘New Orleans Is Sinking’ from It’s a Good Life If You Don’t Weaken — a powerful new musical featuring the songs of The Tragically Hip.

Check it out here >>

We’re releasing the second song from It’s a Good Life If You Don’t Weaken“Courage” by The Tragically Hip—offering a deeper look into the heart of this new musical. Check it out, above!

Photos by Dahlia Katz

Photos by Dahlia Katz

Season 2025-2026

Oct 1, 2025 to
Oct 18, 2025

Nov 19, 2025 to
Dec 28, 2025

Jan 21, 2026 to
Feb 7, 2026

Mar 4, 2026 to
Mar 29, 2026