The 52: Live Theatrical Experience

Deep within archives, often tucked away from history’s limelight, the stories of the women who built this city wait to be told. They represent 52% of Toronto’s population, and in these groundbreaking performances, their lives are brought to centre stage.

Through 52 unique vignettes, this intimate and immersive theatrical experience celebrates the women who have shaped our city. The 52 Live, a Museum of Toronto production, unfolds against the dramatic backdrop of the City Archives, where 24 Canadian playwrights give voice to 52 women who were and are pioneers, artists, leaders, and changemakers.

Each performance features a selection of the 52 women, and weaves together powerful monologues and original choral performances to celebrate women’s contributions to life in Toronto across generations. No two shows will be alike, each performance offering a one of a kind experience and exploring the stories of a different group of The 52. At the same time reverent, playful and deeply human, The 52 Live offers fresh perspectives on the countless ways women have transformed our city. Audiences may wish to see more than one performance, or visit the exhibition to learn about all of the 52 women.

Part of a larger initiative and exhibition exploring women’s voices throughout Toronto’s history, The 52 Live turns the lives of real women into explorative, empathetic theatre. Step into a unique experience where the past meets the present, and women’s lives and work are placed in the spotlight.

Creative Team
Director: Evalyn Parry, Associate Director: Marie Beath Badian, Conductor & Composer: Juliet Palmer, Songwriter: Lillian Allen, Technical Director: Morgan Detmer, Production Manager: Andrea Surich, Stage Manager: Allison Spearin, Designer: Shawn Kerwin, Design Coordinator: Olga Korolyuk

Cast
Marie Beath Badian, Seung Eun Cha, Danelle Charrette, Diane Flacks, Randi Helmers, Marcia Johnson, Shira Leuchter, Leesa Levinson (Kopansky), Cheri Maracle, Karin Randoja, Mirabella Sundar Singh, Meghan Swaby, Diana Tso, and Ravyn Wngz.

Singers
Jessinia Bourne, Seung Eun Cha, Kismet Cooper, Alia Dunn, Serena Hajee, Randi Helmers, Teiya Kasahara, Asal Naimi, Manila Ninan, Soraya Peerbaye, Karin Randoja, Ayanna Seymour, Bronwyn Tullett, Anika Venkatesh.

Playwrights
Jo SiMalaya Alcampo, Kanika Ambrose, Ophira Calof, Marjorie Chan, Anna Chatterton, Sharada Eswar, Sedina Fiati, Diane Flacks, Julia Hune-Brown, Falen Johnson, Marcia Johnson, Aida Jordao, Keira Loughran, Cheri Maracle, Jordi Mand, Coleen MacPherson, Sarena Parmar, Ali Joy Richardson, Lisa Ryder, Erin Shields, Ashley Naomi Skye, Shandra Spears, Meghan Swaby, Julie Tepperman, and Marcia Johnson.