Vancouver Theatre Scene: Six Essential Productions for March 2026
With the Olympic Games concluded, Vancouver's vibrant theatre community is ready to captivate audiences with an exceptional lineup of productions this March. The city's stages will host everything from beloved musical classics to contemporary dramas exploring addiction and social media obsession. Here are the six must-see theatrical experiences that promise to make March 2026 a memorable month for performing arts enthusiasts.
People, Places & Things: A Powerful Addiction Drama
When: March 10-22
Where: The Cultch Historic Theatre
Tickets: Starting at $35 at thecultch.com
Local company The Search Party presents Duncan Macmillan's critically acclaimed addiction drama as part of The Cultch's Warrior Festival. This production features Tess Degenstein starring as a struggling actress navigating rehabilitation for alcohol and drug addiction. Supported by an ensemble of Vancouver's top-tier actors portraying fellow addicts, the play has been described by British critics as both bleak and brilliant and blisteringly funny. Mindy Parfitt directs this emotionally charged exploration of recovery and personal struggle.
Franklinland: A Satirical Take on American History
When: March 12-April 5
Where: Granville Island Stage
Tickets: Starting at $29 at artsclub.com
Lloyd Suh's 2018 comedy offers a fresh perspective on American history through the lens of contemporary language and sensibilities. The play presents Benjamin Franklin as a brilliant scientist and founding father who struggles with fatherhood in his personal life. Brian Markinson, one of Vancouver's most respected actors who rarely appears on stage, portrays Franklin under the direction of Omari Newton. The production focuses on the complex father-son relationship while bracketing the American Revolution as its historical backdrop.
Les Misérables: The Timeless Musical Classic
When: March 18-29
Where: Queen Elizabeth Theatre
Tickets: Starting at $131 at vancouver.broadway.com
Victor Hugo's epic tale comes to life in this acclaimed North American tour production. Featuring Nick Cartell as ex-convict Jean Valjean and Lindsay Heather Pearce as Fantine, this musical masterpiece combines a gorgeous symphonic soundtrack with powerful storytelling about justice, redemption, and social conscience. The production has received rave reviews for its immense theatricality and emotional depth, making it one of the most anticipated theatrical events of the season.
HARM: A Contemporary Exploration of Obsession
When: March 20-29
Where: Studio 16
Tickets: $16-$36 at mitchandmurrayproductions.com
Jennifer Copping directs Kelli Ogmundson in Phoebe Eclair-Powell's intense one-woman drama about an English estate agent's dangerous obsession with her social media influencer client. Produced by the Mitch & Murray company, which presents only one show annually with consistently high quality, this production has been described by British critics as edgy, tense, soul-searching, and terrifying. The play offers a contemporary examination of social media's psychological impact and modern relationships.
Additional March Theatre Highlights
Beyond these featured productions, Vancouver's theatre scene continues to thrive with additional offerings throughout March. The Cultch maintains its Warrior Festival programming, while the Arts Club Theatre Company continues its Lower Mainland tour of The Golden Anniversaries. These productions contribute to what promises to be an eclectic month of theatrical entertainment, ranging from musical spectacles to intimate character studies.
The diversity of March's theatre lineup reflects Vancouver's growing reputation as a cultural destination with programming that appeals to both traditional theatre-goers and those seeking contemporary, thought-provoking works. With venues ranging from historic theatres to modern performance spaces, audiences have multiple opportunities to experience the best of local and touring productions.
