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Everyone’s favourite himbo is coming to East Van, and this time, he’s putting his muscles to work for something other than looking good.
The Cultch and Theatre Replacement are bringing East Van Panto: Hercules to the York Theatre, putting a distinctly Vancouver spin on Greek mythology. Now in its 14th year, the annual production is known for taking familiar stories and filling them with local references, political jabs, and enough ridiculousness to keep both kids and adults entertained.
This time, the villain is Hades, God of the No-Fun-Derworld, who has some ambitious plans for Vancouver’s underground. His latest development scheme is the Arbutus Subway System, or A.S.S. Expansion, because apparently even the gods aren’t above a good acronym joke.
But conquering the city isn’t enough. Hades also has his sights set on Science World, which he hopes to transform into a monument to old-fashioned masculinity. Naturally, this doesn’t sit well with Hera, Goddess of East Van, neighbourhood activist, and Science World’s reigning ruler.
Enter Hercules, Hera’s adopted son and a somewhat reluctant hero who seems more concerned with his physique than saving Vancouver. Between completing his legendary labours and working on his abs, he’ll have to figure out what being a hero actually means before his uncle takes over the city. Turns out, being strong and being a hero aren’t necessarily the same thing.
Written by Pedro Chamale and Marcus Youssef, the production is directed by Chelsea Haberlin, with original music by Veda Hille. The cast includes Jacob Woike, Jason Sakaki, Meaghan Chenosky, Raugi Yu, and Sara Vickruck, alongside a chorus of Studio 58 performers.
Beyond the mythology and municipal mockery, this year’s Panto also explores growing up, finding your place in the world, and reconsidering what strength looks like.
“We’re so grateful to be back with this brilliant creative team for a second year!” shares Theatre Replacement’s artistic director, Maiko Yamamoto in a statement. “Get ready for some divine chaos with Hercules in East Van. At its heart, this is a story about finding your way as you grow up, and imagining strength as something generous, vulnerable, and rooted in where you come from.”
And clearly, Vancouverites are ready for another round of Panto antics. With tickets reportedly selling at record levels, the production has already extended its run by a week, moving its closing date from January 3 to January 10.
When: November 18 to January 10
Where: York Theatre
Tickets: $49+, available here
