Doubt: A Parable, image by Swamp Rat Experience
FORT McMURRAY — Swamp Rat Experience is returning for a sixth season with a lineup that blends community theatre, original works, youth programming and a celebrated Nigerian comedy.
The Fort McMurray theatre company announced its 2026-27 season Tuesday, featuring returning community events alongside two major stage productions and expanded artistic development opportunities.
The season opens in September with the fifth annual Play In A Day, a 24-hour play creation event in which participants write, rehearse and perform original productions.
Later that month, Chaos Cabaret returns under a new name after previously operating as the Miscast Musical Cabaret. The event invites performers to step outside traditional casting expectations by taking on roles they would not normally have the opportunity to play.
The company’s fall production will be Our Husband Has Gone Mad Again by acclaimed Nigerian playwright Ola Rotimi. The political comedy follows retired Major Lejoka-Brown as he attempts to enter politics after a military career, with increasingly comic results.
The production will be directed by local theatre artist Lola Taiwo, whose directorial debut with Swamp Rat Experience’s production of The Lion and the Jewel sold out earlier this year.
“I’m incredibly excited to direct Our Husband Has Gone Mad Again and humbled to introduce audiences to one of Africa’s most beloved comedies,” Taiwo said.
The play runs Nov. 5 to 7 at the Keyano Theatre, with auditions scheduled for Aug. 29.
The company will also stage Ride the Cyclone in summer 2027. The Canadian musical tells the story of six teenagers from a chamber choir who die in a roller coaster accident and are given the chance to argue why they should return to life.
Swamp Rat Experience says the production will include immersive pre-show performances and collaborations with local artists.
The season also includes Theatre Club, summer drama camps for children and youth, workshops and master classes for emerging artists, and Pride Cabaret in June 2027.
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