“If music be the food of love, play on!”

Bard on the Bay has become a staple of summer experiences in Collingwood, and this year marks 10 years since Theatre Georgian Bay first tread the boards on stage at the Shipyards Amphitheatre. Opening July 23 and running until August 3, the cast of Twelfth Night is set to deliver a truly celebratory production filled with music, mistaken identity, and hilarious hijinks to feed the creative souls of audience members of all ages! Whether you are a seasoned theatregoer or new to Shakespeare, all are welcome at Bard on the Bay.

Theatre Georgian Bay was founded in 2016 by twelve passionate artists from across the region who were inspired to create classical and Canadian theatre. Since then, the company has gone on to produce annual works by Shakespeare, a Canadian musical premiere, new works from established and emerging Canadian artists, cabaret events and more. The current collective is made up of seven dedicated professional arts workers, including Theatre Collingwood’s Associate Producer Anne Raciunas.

“Theatre Georgian Bay burst onto the arts scene with a production of Twelfth Night in the summer of 2016” said Raciunas.  “Our 10th Anniversary felt like the perfect time to mount a reimagined production that celebrates the continued success of Bard on the Bay and acknowledges how far we’ve come.  Much like the characters in Twelfth Night, everything that we do for our community, we do in the name of love!”

Inspired by the passion of the company’s inaugural production staged a decade ago, this summer’s production of Twelfth Night is a completely reimagined experience set in Muskoka in the 1930s. Shipwreck survivor Viola finds herself far from home and disguises herself as a man named Cesario so that she can enter into the service of the local Duke Orsino.  The Duke longs to woo the Countess Olivia, and dispatches the disguised Viola to deliver love letters to the Countess.  The plan backfires in classic Shakespearean fashion as Olivia falls for Cesario, whose heart now belongs to Orsino.  With musical clowns, misguided paramours, and plenty of fools added into the mix, Twelfth Night is a legendary crowd pleaser. This production of Twelfth Night is a 90 minute, family-friendly event that is suitable for all ages.

Bard on the Bay has become a greatly anticipated summer event that hosts hundreds of patrons from across Grey-Bruce, Simcoe County, and the GTA every summer. Most recent Bard on the Bay productions include The Winter’s Tale, Much Ado About Nothing, The Tempest, and Romeo & Juliet. Paired with the breathtaking backdrop of Georgian Bay, the continued success of Bard on the Bay is also tied to the company’s mission to create theatrical experiences for the community that are both financially and contextually accessible. Theatre Georgian Bay presents these classic works with an emphasis on the text and staged to be enjoyed by patrons regardless of their Shakespeare experience. To help alleviate any financial stress that may stand between individuals and culture, Theatre Georgian Bay operates Bard on the Bay under a Pay-What-You-Will admission by donation system (with a suggested donation of $25).

Twelfth Night runs from July 23 to August 3 at the Shipyards Amphitheatre in Collingwood.  There are 12 performances to choose from, and audience members are encouraged to bring their own cushions, chairs, or even a picnic!  Anyone seeking additional performance information can visit www.theatregeorgianbay.ca or contact the Theatre Georgian Bay collective directly by emailing theatregeorgianbay@gmail.com

The post Theatre Georgian Bay Brings Music, Love, And Laughter Of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night To Shipyards Amphitheatre appeared first on Muskoka411.

Get ready to dance the night away at the most rad 80’s Dance Party in town! We’re bringing all the classic hits, neon vibes, and retro moves for an epic night of fun.

Join us THIS SATURDAY, July 18th for the 2nd Annual Shark Sandwich Benefit Concert in support of Campfire Circle, featuring Trev Hammer at the Jolly Roger Inn.

Canada’s favourite party band (from Edmonton, Alberta), Shark Sandwich, as well as local troubadour Trev Hammer, are set to deliver high-energy dance rock ‘n’ roll while raising funds for Campfire Circle. With a history of raising significant funds for local charities, these awesome bands are ready to hit the stage to help create more healing through happiness for the campers and their families.

Ticket site is here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/shark-sandwich-parry-sound-80s-dance-party-tickets-1987644053871?aff=oddtdtcreator

The post Shark Sandwich – Parry Sound – 80’s Dance Party in support of Campfire Circle appeared first on Muskoka411.

The docks are busy. The lakes sparkle. The line at Webers Burgers stretches halfway down Highway 11. And, apparently, people claiming to be the reincarnation of famous celebrities are descending on Muskoka for a convention.

At least, that’s the wonderfully absurd premise behind The Split Pea Tango, Josh Hellyer’s latest bestselling Highclere Inn & Carriage House mystery—a novel that proves cottage country isn’t just a beautiful place to unwind. It’s also the perfect place for a deliciously chaotic whodunit.

The story begins with a mystery that’s as bizarre as it is irresistible. An 18-year-old woman arrives claiming she’s the reincarnation of Vanessa Cromwell, a former guest of the inn who disappeared just days before Christmas in 2008.

Highclere’s resident accidental sleuth, Mason Valentine, isn’t exactly convinced the answer lies in the afterlife.

Joined by his fearless cousin, investigative journalist Cordelia “Cici” Bradshaw, and an unforgettable cast of friends and lovable eccentrics, Mason launches an investigation that tumbles headfirst through some of Muskoka’s most recognizable places—and some of its most gloriously ridiculous situations.

Readers will grin as familiar landmarks, including Webers Burgers and Bala’s Cranberry Marsh, make memorable cameos. But don’t expect a leisurely sightseeing tour. Before long, the gang finds itself navigating hilariously awkward encounters at the coroner’s office, chasing clues that refuse to behave, and pulling off an undercover infiltration of a convention dedicated to adult internet stars. Somehow, against all odds, every wonderfully ridiculous detour inches them closer to solving a mystery that has remained hidden for almost two decades.

It’s all delightfully bonkers.

Yet beneath the rapid-fire jokes and wonderfully eccentric characters lies a genuinely moving story about grief, forgiveness, family, and the secrets people keep—even from those they love most.

That’s part of what has made The Split Pea Tango stand out.

Kirkus Reviews called it “an engrossing tale of family secrets, double-crosses, and lies.”

The NY Literary Review praised it as “a genre-defying masterpiece that marries farce and suspense with soul,” while Canadian Mystery Reviews described it as “one of the most original Canadian novels in recent memory—a literary mystery with the heart of a farce and the soul of a ghost story.”

Readers have been equally enthusiastic.

“The Split Pea Tango was the perfect follow-up to A Box of Frogs. It is a must-read! I closed the book and said, ‘Bravo!’ out loud,” wrote one reviewer.

Another called it “a wonderful read that will keep you guessing right up until the end,” while others have praised its laugh-out-loud humour, brisk pace, unforgettable characters, and surprising emotional depth.

Perhaps that’s the novel’s greatest trick. It invites readers in with outrageous comedy and eccentric characters, then quietly delivers a mystery so cleverly constructed that they’ll still be turning pages long after they’ve promised themselves, “Just one more chapter.”

So, if your summer plans include a dock chair, a cold drink, and a good book, consider packing one that celebrates Muskoka while gleefully turning it upside down.

Buy on Amazon!

*This Article Is Sponsored By The Advertiser

The post Murder, Mayhem And Muskoka: Why The Split Pea Tango Is This Summer’s Most Delightfully Unhinged Read appeared first on Muskoka411.

The Huntsville Festival of the Arts is excited to present the 14th annual Nuit Blanche North, returning to downtown Huntsville on Saturday, July 18, 2026, from 8:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.

One of Muskoka’s most anticipated arts events, Nuit Blanche North will once again transform the downtown core into a vibrant nighttime playground featuring 32 unique activities and performances by more than 100 local and visiting artists. Best of all, the event is completely free to attend.

This year’s theme, “Into the Wild,” invites audiences to explore the many ways we connect with each other and the natural world. Through immersive installations, interactive experiences, visual art, music, theatre, dance, film, sculpture and street performance, artists will interpret the wild spaces around us and within us.

“Each year Nuit Blanche North brings thousands of people together to experience art in unexpected ways,” said Dan Watson, Artistic Director of Huntsville Festival of the Arts. “This year’s theme encourages audiences to embrace curiosity, creativity and connection while exploring a remarkable range of artistic experiences throughout downtown Huntsville.”

Four Creative Zones to Explore

Visitors are encouraged to wander through four distinct event zones, each offering a unique collection of performances and artistic experiences.

Zone 1 – Town Hall & Main Street West

Highlights include:

• Good Enough Live Karaoke, an interactive karaoke party where the audience becomes the star.
• Dreams of a Forest, an immersive installation combining visual art, audience participation and live music.
• Wild Procession / Listening Body, a community dance journey beginning on Main Street and culminating with performances on the Algonquin Theatre stage.
• Where the Wild Things Are, an interactive storybook adventure presented by Huntsville Theatre Company.
• The community-created TD Bank Monster Mural and Patchwork Perspectives community quilt project.

Zone 2 – Main Street

Visitors can enjoy:

• World-class street performers at the Busker Pitch, featuring Rockabilly Joe (8pm), Darling Darling (9pm) and Steve Goodtime (10pm).
• Into the Wild by Science North, featuring hands-on science and environmental activities.
• Interactive art experiences including Wild Impressions: A Silk Screen Experience, Who’s There?, Sewn By Nature, and Wild About Care.
• Unique installations such as Concrete & Canopy and Insomnia: A Nocturnal Chase.

Zone 3 – River Mill Park

Music and interactive experiences take centre stage with:

• High-energy performances by Trash Panda (8pm) and SHOUT! The Band (9:30pm)
• The glow-in-the-dark Foam Zone and community drum circle Rhythmania.
• Artistic installations including Lightsweetcrude, Infestation, and A Portrait of Your Imagination.
• Hands-on creative experiences and body art activities.

Zone 4 – Town Docks

The waterfront comes alive with:

• HASA: The Aerial Space Show (8pm & 10pm) featuring breathtaking aerial circus performances.
• The explosive NORTH FIRE CIRCUS Fire Show (11pm)
• The vibrant rhythms of Samba Squad (9pm)
• Join Me, a monumental octopus sculpture created from woven branches by artist Marc Walter.
• Interactive art projects including From Field to Frame, Creative Wild Creature Collage, and Muskoka Life Line.

Road Closures and Parking Information

To accommodate the event, the following closures will be in effect:

Main Street Closure

• Main Street will be closed between Centre Street and Brunel Road beginning at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 18.
• The roadway will reopen at 4:00 a.m. on Sunday, July 19.

River Mill Parking Lot Closure

• The River Mill Park parking lot will close beginning at 6:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 18.
• The parking lot will reopen at 4:00 a.m. on Sunday, July 19.

Visitors are encouraged to arrive early and utilize available municipal parking throughout downtown Huntsville. This is a rain or shine event.

Community Support

Nuit Blanche North is made possible through the generous support of TD Bank, the Downtown Huntsville BIA, and the Province of Ontario through the Experience Ontario Program.

For a complete event schedule and site map, visit:

https://www.huntsvillefestival.ca/nuit-blanche-north

The post Nuit Blanche North Returns To Downtown Huntsville On July 18 appeared first on Muskoka411.

 NBCUniversal‘s reality streaming service and Lark Productions today announced that production has begun for Summer House Canada, the first international adaptation of the hit reality series Summer House. Filming is underway in Muskoka, Ontario, with the series set to launch exclusively on Hayu in 2027.

Summer House Canada is Hayu’s second original commission. The announcement follows the success of Hayu’s first original series, The Real Housewives of London, which was recently renewed for a second season and will return to Hayu later this year.

Following the successful original format, Summer House Canada will bring together a group of friends who escape to a shared house on summer weekends. Known for its sprawling waterfront cottages and lively social scene, Muskoka sets the stage as relationships, careers and personal lives collide.

“We’re thrilled to bring this adaptation of the standout Summer House format to the market – and Muskoka offers the perfect, iconic Canadian setting to introduce Summer House Canada and build on the franchise’s momentum,” said Hendrik McDermott, Managing Director, International DTC, NBCUniversal. “Following the success of Hayu’s first original commission – The Real Housewives of London – we’re delighted to bring another exclusive original series to Hayu subscribers in Canada and worldwide, expanding our market-leading reality content line-up with a fresh take on a fan-favourite franchise.”

“Summer House has become a beloved global franchise known for its authentic friendships, big personalities and the unforgettable moments that come from spending a summer together. We’re excited to build on that by bringing the Canadian summer experience to fans worldwide,” said Erin Haskett, President and Executive Producer, Lark Productions.

Details regarding the cast for Summer House Canada will be announced in the coming months.

The Summer House franchise is distributed internationally by NBCUniversal Formats, a division of Universal Studio Group.

Celebrating its 10^th anniversary this year – and 8^th anniversary in Canada – Hayu is the ultimate reality streaming destination where consumers can immerse themselves in non-stop binge-worthy unscripted entertainment. Hayu is home to more than 10,000 episodes of some of the world’s most popular reality series – all 100% ad-free. New must-see seasons are available to subscribers the same day as in the USA.

The post Awesome News, Reality TV Fans: Summer House Is Coming To Muskoka appeared first on Muskoka411.

The post The Trews And Bleeker Announced for Concert For Care In Support Of Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital  appeared first on Muskoka411.

Alan Doyle, acclaimed singer-songwriter and
founding member of Great Big Sea, will headline Lake Joe Live: Muskoka Kitchen Party
on August 15, bringing the spirit of the Maritimes to the shores of Lake Joseph.
Presented by IG Wealth Management Throssell Group, Lake Joe Live – an annual
fundraising event by the non-profit CNIB – will transform the CNIB Lake Joe camp into a
lively East Coast-inspired kitchen party featuring live music, exceptional food, and a
celebration of the impact of CNIB Lake Joe.

Guests will enjoy a high-energy performance by Doyle, along with a station-style
culinary experience from celebrated Canadian chef Ted Reader, known as the
“Godfather of the Grill.” The evening will also feature remarks from best-selling author,
content creator, and disability advocate Molly Burke.

This year’s event aims to raise $400,000, helping 160 children with sight loss enjoy a
week at CNIB Lake Joe next summer. Funds raised will help subsidize camp fees,
allowing participating families to pay just $250 for a week of camp that costs
approximately $2,500 to provide.

Celebrating 65 years of camp without barriers
This year’s event is especially meaningful as CNIB Lake Joe celebrates 65 years of
creating life-changing experiences for children, youth, and adults who are blind,
Deafblind, or have low vision.

Since opening in 1961, CNIB Lake Joe – a camp specially built for people who are blind – has welcomed generations of participants to Muskoka. In the fully accessible
environment of Lake Joe, campers can enjoy a traditional camp experience just like
anyone else, complete with rock climbing, sailing, swimming, arts and crafts, campfires,
and sports.

Lake Joe Live: Muskoka Kitchen Party is expected to welcome 400 guests from
Muskoka and across Ontario, and will feature live fundraising, storytelling, and
immersive experiences that bring the impact of CNIB Lake Joe to life. To purchase
tickets or learn more, visit cnib.ca/LakeJoeLive.

Event Details
Lake Joe Live: Muskoka Kitchen Party
Saturday, August 15, 2026
4 to 9 p.m.
CNIB Lake Joe
4 Joe Finley Way, MacTier, Ontario
Tickets are now available at cnib.ca/LakeJoeLive.

Fast Facts
• CNIB Lake Joe is celebrating 65 years in 2026
• Featured performer: Alan Doyle
• Featured speaker: Molly Burke
• Featured chef: Ted Reader
• Approximately 400 guests are expected to attend
• Fundraising goal: $400,000
• Impact goal: Help 160 children attend CNIB Lake Joe next summer

The post Alan Doyle To Headline Lake Joe Live In Muskoka This August appeared first on Muskoka411.

“We are excited to once again treat the community to several weeks of great entertainment in the beautiful setting along the Muskoka River,” says Matt Huddlestone, Manager of the Algonquin Theatre. “With a wide range of genres, these concerts are a great way for the public to take a mid-week break and enjoy an evening of live music in downtown Huntsville.”

2026 Lineup 

• July 1 – HTC Canadian Cabaret
• July 8 – Northern Lights Steel Drum Orchestra
• July 15 – Muskoka Concert Band
• July 22 – Sean Cotton
• July 29 – Alexis Taylor
• August 5 – Rich Howard
• August 12 – Cameron of Lochiel Pipes and Drums
• August 19 – Leah Leslie
• August 26 – Rob Seymour

The Concerts on the Dock series is a family-friendly event, and anyone attending is encouraged to bring a lawn chair and a donation for the performing artist.

Held on the shore of the Muskoka River, Concerts on the Dock take place just steps away from Huntsville’s vibrant downtown. Enjoy the sights, shops, and restaurants that historic downtown Huntsville has to offer before settling in for an evening of live music.

In the event of inclement weather, the concert will be cancelled and not rescheduled. Any cancellations will be announced on the Town of Huntsville and Algonquin Theatre social media channels ahead of the event.

For more information on the Concerts on the Dock series, visit algonquintheatre.ca.

The post Concerts On The Dock Series Returns To Huntsville appeared first on Muskoka411.

The event will bring together survivors, caregivers, families, supporters, and community members for a day focused on hope, resilience, and connection. Participants will gather at Meridian Stage in downtown Barrie, where registration and check in will take place before the community walk begins. Following the walk, participants will return to Meridian Stage for a full live concert performance by Bif Naked. Register for the walk at: https://gildasclubsimcoemuskoka.org/event/community-is-stronger-than-cancer-day

Unlike many concerts, there is no set ticket price. Instead, attendees are encouraged to make a donation in support of Gilda’s Club Simcoe Muskoka. Whether someone contributes $10, $100, or $10,000, every donation directly supports free cancer support programs, caregiver resources, children’s services, healthy living programs, and peer support opportunities for individuals and families affected by cancer.

Bif Naked made the following statement, “When I went through breast cancer treatment, I was incredibly grateful for the doctors, nurses, and healthcare teams who helped me through it. But what many people don’t realize is that when you leave the hospital or treatment centre, you’re still carrying a lot with you. The emotional side of cancer, the fear, the uncertainty, and the impact it has on your family and loved ones doesn’t just disappear.”

Bif continued, “That’s why organizations like Gilda’s Club are so important. They provide support, connection, understanding, and community when people need it most. No one should ever have to face cancer alone. I am honoured to be supporting Gilda’s Club Simcoe Muskoka and their Community Against Cancer Walk on June 28, 2026. Whether you walk, fundraise, volunteer, donate, or simply come out and join us, you’re helping ensure that people affected by cancer have somewhere to turn when they need support the most. So come out, walk, fundraise and rock with me. Together, we can make sure no one faces cancer alone.”

For Lana Hana, Executive Director of Gilda’s Club, the event is about more than fundraising. “Cancer changes lives, not just for the person diagnosed, but for entire families. At Gilda’s Club, we ensure that no one affected by cancer has to face it alone by providing free support programs, resources, and meaningful connections for anyone affected. We are honoured to have Bif Naked join us for our Community Against Cancer Walk on June 28. Every step taken, every dollar raised, and every person who participates helps ensure that this support remains available, free of charge, to those who need it most.

If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out. No matter where you live or where you are in your experience with cancer, we are here to help and connect you with the care and community you deserve. Together, we can remind everyone impacted by cancer that they are never alone.”

If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out. No matter where you live, no matter where you are, we will do everything we can to help and connect you with the support you deserve.

The Community Against Cancer Walk & Concert aims not only to raise funds, but also to raise awareness of the free services available through Gilda’s Club Simcoe Muskoka. Every year, thousands of individuals and families face the emotional, social, and practical impacts of cancer. Community support helps ensure these services remain accessible without financial barriers.

EVENT DETAILS

Community Is Stronger than Cancer Walk & Concert

Sunday, June 28, 2026

Registration & Check In:
Meridian Stage
Downtown Barrie

Featuring:
Bif Naked Live in Concert

Admission by Donation

Walk. Fundraise. Rock.

The post Bif Naked To Headline Community Against Cancer Walk & Concert In Support Of Gilda’s Club appeared first on Muskoka411.

As a legacy project commemorating Bracebridge’s 150-year anniversary, the revitalized bandshell has been reimagined as a vibrant gathering space that will support community events, live performances, cultural celebrations, and civic ceremonies for generations to come.

The community is encouraged to bring a lawn chair, gather with family and friends, and help kick off a new era of entertainment in Memorial Park while launching the 2026 Bandshell Concert Series.

The evening will begin at 5:30 p.m. with a ceremonial opening featuring:

• Remarks from Mayor Rick Maloney;
• Recognition of project sponsors and contributors;
• O Canada by local youth Sophie Mann;
• Performance by the Legion Pipe and Drum Band;
• Community celebration cake cutting; and more!

At 6:30 p.m., the celebration continues with the official kickoff of the Bandshell Concert Series as Luke Crans takes the stage for a free outdoor concert.

In addition to the entertainment, attendees can enjoy:

• A community barbecue hosted by the Bracebridge Lions Club (fee applies); and
• Outdoor yard games provided by the Downtown Bracebridge BIA.

The Memorial Park Bandshell project was made possible through the support and collaboration of numerous community partners, local businesses, contractors, donors, and volunteers. Their contributions have helped create a welcoming and accessible space that will serve as a lasting community legacy.

Bandshell Concert Series
Enjoy live music from the new bandshell in Memorial Park every Wednesday in July and August from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Music lovers of all ages are invited to bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy an evening of great entertainment under the open sky. Concerts are free to attend, and donations are encouraged to support the artists.

To learn more, visit bracebridge.ca/bandshell.

The post Celebrate The Grand Opening Of The Bandshell In Memorial Park With Live Entertainment appeared first on Muskoka411.