Cup of Hemlock Theatre Podcast

Welcome back to the 149th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 149th episode we revisit Diana: The Musical, by comparing and contrasting it with Evita, another musical about a powerful female figure who lived and died in the spotlight. Join Jillian Robinson and Mackenzie Horner, as they discuss the relationship between leaders and the people they serve, the value of dramaturgical due diligence, and utilizing theatricality to its full potential.  Follow our panelists: Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeat Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeN Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAu Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Follow us on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you’d like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com

Welcome back to the 147th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 147th episode we have a new artist interview. This particular conversation was hosted by our Associate Producer Jillian Robinson and features actor Dan Mousseau, fresh off of his Dora win for Crow’s Theatre/Howland Company’s production of PRODIGAL by Paolo Santalucia, and soon to be treading the boards in Soulpepper’s production of WILDWOMAN by Kat Sandler. Together they discuss the power of supportive casts, the practice of curiosity, and the pledge to keep fighting the fight. Come see Dan in Soulpepper’s production of WILDWOMAN, running from October 5th to October 29th at the Young Centre for the Performing Arts (50 Tank House Ln, Toronto, ON). Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.soulpepper.ca/performances/wildwoman Follow Dan – Instagram & TikTok: @mandousseau Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre  If you’d like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com

Welcome back to the 268th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 268th episode we bring you a Duet Review of Make Banana Cry choreographed by Andrew Tay and Stephen Thompson. Join Jillian Robinson and Randy Lei Chang, as they discuss the performative workings of pace, absurdity, and isolating body politic theatricality that illuminate the Western xenophobia toward Asian culture. Make Banana Cry was a Toronto Dance Theatre production in partnership with Buddies in Bad Times Theatre and played at Buddies in Bad Times Theatre (12 Alexander St., Toronto, ON.) from January 14-17, 2026. More information about the show can be found at: https://buddiesinbadtimes.com/show/make-banana-cry/This review contains SPOILERS. The episode will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [11:53] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. This iteration of the production has ended but if the production gets remounted in the future, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk.Follow our panelists:Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Randy Lei Chang – Instagram: @_r0ndy_Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatreIf you’d like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiriesto coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com

Welcome back to the 267th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 267th episode we bring you a Duet Review of the musical Company, written by Stephen Sondheim (music and lyrics) and George Furth (book), presented by Talk Is Free Theatre, directed by Dylan Trowbridge, and starring Aidan deSalaiz in the role of Bobby. Join Ryan Borochovitz and special guest Lori Ossip, as they discuss concept musicals, queer intimacies, and invisible props. Company is playing at the Theatre Centre (1115 Queen St W, Toronto, ON) until February 8th, 2026. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://theatrecentre.org/event/company-talk-is-free/ This review contains many SPOILERS for Company. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [36:34] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Follow our panelists: Lori Ossip – Blog: https://girllikestheatre.com/ // NEXT Mag: https://nextmag.ca/search/%22lori+ossip%22 Ryan Borochovitz – NEXT Mag: https://nextmag.ca/search/borochovitz Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatreIf you’d like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com

Happy New Year and welcome back to the 266th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 266th episode we bring you a very special episode of “The Cup: Editorial” in which we kick off 2026 with a very specialepisode where we look back on the year that’spassed, the plays we loved, and the episodes weproduced. Join our Golden Trio (@jillian.robinson96,@mackenzie_horner, and @ryanborochovitz ) as theyraise their cups and give a final cheer to 2025!Here’s a list of all the episodes from 2025 that we shout out in this episode (in order of first mention). If any of them piqued your interest, give them a watch/listen: Last Year’s New Year Editorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EFbj9OcwkYU She’s the Man (Screened Play): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLROdb5QKno The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie (Screened Play): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1suZULFP2Yg Celebrity Casting Editorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bJDEtdeL5Gw Theatre, Sitcoms, and SNL Editorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kFEASVrYnQ4 Doubt: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XlIkl3Rvzz4 Toronto Fringe Review Roundup 2025 Pt.1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CtBoqIHnLCI Toronto Fringe Review Roundup 2025 Pt.2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2UkeDPQXM8w Toronto Fringe Review Roundup 2025 Pt.3: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w46JrYXmiP0 The 25th Annual Putman County Spelling Bee: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kSn6aGoS9ck A Public Display of Affection: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OdrQ6GAxDQI Romeo Pimp: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jCNUqbr7sfA Born-Again Crow: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6wtY7LzGg0Q Shrek the Musical: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JdfkQKxlfy8 MONKS: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O19CrIz4EL8 The Threepenny Opera: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4uO16YDR9xU Ophis: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iA0ptZKOJuY Wing Chun Dance Drama: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EzY-bUrrSaQ Moonlight Schooner: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zKqMOx8IGZk Game of Life: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9DHd3lzDt2Y The Green Line: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ixPUf-PP9o tick, tick…BOOM!: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gdw3Az4h9mE Tatum Lee & Lizzie Moffatt Interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cXCtnMtu9tE Last Landscape: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vXrxk0HGuHw Bug: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SXu3ep5ElJ4 A Christmas Carol: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQg6urySq2s Invasion: Christmas Carol: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NmmXqrAgHfY Follow our panelists: Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeatApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeNSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAu Ryan Borochovitz – [Just send all that love to CoH instead; he won’t mind!]; if you enjoy his theatre thoughts, more can be found at https://nextmag.ca/search/borochovitzFollow us on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you’d like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com

Welcome back to the 265th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 265th episode we bring you a Duet Review of Wing Chun Dance Drama directed & choreographed by Han Zhen and Zhou Liya. Join Jillian Robinson and Bri Clarke, as they discuss the pillars of humanity: a dance of feminine & masculine, encased in speed & stillness, aspiring to stand in the beam of radiant light. Wing Chun Dance Drama is playing at Meridian Hall (1 Front St. E., Toronto, ON) until January 4, 2026. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.wingchundancedrama.com/performancesThis review contains SPOILERS. The episode will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [19:57] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk.Follow our panelists:Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Bri Clarke – Instagram: @brianna_clarkee // Website : www.briclarke.ca // Podcast : @artversationspod // Sze-Yang Ade-Lam (Wing Chun teacher in Toronto) Instagram : @likewaterwingchunFollow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatreIf you’d like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com.

Welcome back to the 264th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 264th episode we bring you a Duet Review of A Christmas Carol written by Charles Dickens, directed by Chloë Rose Flowers, presented by King Theatre Company / Trisan Construction. Join Jillian Robinson and Emily Cornelius, as they discuss this all-around beautiful depiction of the timeless classic that once again proves to bless us, everyone!. A Christmas Carol is playing at the Schomberg Community Hall (325 Main St., Schomberg, ON) from December 13 - December 21, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.kingtheatre.ca/christmascarolThis review contains SPOILERS. The episode will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [13:08] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk.Follow our panelists:Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Emily Cornelius – Instagram: @emilycorn94 // Upcoming show : Dance Nation @outside_the_march, @coalminetheatre at Coal Mine Theatre from April 12 - May 3, 2026. Tickets can be purchased from the following link : https://tickets.coalminetheatre.com/event/330:21/Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatreIf you’d like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com.

Welcome back to the 263rd episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 263rd episode we bring you a Duet Review of Invasion: Christmas Carol, a Dickensian holiday improv extravaganza presented by Knifefight Theatre in association with One Four One Collective and the Assembly Theatre. Join Jillian Robinson and Ryan Borochovitz, as they discuss Victorian japes, demonic babies, and the sex life of Ebenezer Scrooge.Invasion: Christmas Carol is playing at the Assembly Theatre (1479 Queen St W, Toronto, ON) until December 14th, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.theassemblytheatre.com/invasionchristmascarol Follow Knifefight Theatre to read about all of the other invaders you may have missed: @knifefighttheatre Follow our panelists: Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Ryan Borochovitz – [Just send all that love to CoH instead; he won’t mind!]; if you enjoy his theatre thoughts, more can be found at https://nextmag.ca/search/borochovitz Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatreIf you’d like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com

Welcome back to the 262nd episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 262nd episode we bring you a Duet Review of Moonlight Schooner, written by Kanika Ambrose, directed by Sabryn Rock, a Necessary Angel Theatre Company production in association with Canadian Stage and Tarragon Theatre. Join Associated Artistic Producer Jillian Robinson and new guest Divine Angubua as they discuss the importance of identifying the individual, the need for community, and the necessary role of text & movement to penetrate the never ending cycle of colonial oppression. Moonlight Schooner is playing at Berkeley Street Theatre (26 Berkeley St.) from November 21st to December 14th, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://my.canadianstage.com/overview/9330 This review contains many SPOILERS for Moonlight Schooner. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [14:53] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Follow our panelists: Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Divine Angubua– Instagram: @ angubua_for_presidentFollow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatreIf you’d like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com

Welcome back to the 261st episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 261st episode we bring you a Duet Review of he Unauthorized Hallmark(ish) Parody Musical, with book by Tim Drucker and Bonnie Milligan, music by Joel Waggoner and lyrics by Tim Drucker, Bonnie Milligan and Joel Waggoner, directed by Tim Drucker, produced by Paquin Exhibitions & Theatrical and presented by FEVER. Join Co-Artistic Producer Mackenzie Horner and Associate Artistic Producer Jillian Robinson, as they discuss all the clever homages to Hallmark Christmas movie tropes, the show’s very catchy songs, and the twist ending! The Unauthorized Hallmark(ish) Parody Musical is playing at The Royal Theatre (608 College Street, Toronto, M6G 1B4) from November 20th, 2025 to January 4th, 2026. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://bit.ly/3MGQx1rThis review contains many SPOILERS for The Unauthorized Hallmark(ish) Parody Musical. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [13:50] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Follow our panelists: Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeatApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeNSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAu Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatreIf you’d like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com

Welcome back to the 260th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 260th episode we bring you a Duet Review of BUG, written by Tracy Letts, directed by Andrew Cameron, presented by The King Black Box in partnership with Elkabong Theatre Projects. Join Co-Artistic Producer Mackenzie Horner and new panelist Istvan Dugalin, as they discuss the tricks of stage combat and how brilliantly this production pulled it off, if this production should have kept the intermission break, and all the details and hidden symbolism woven into the production design of this piece. BUG is playing at The King Black Box (1224 King Street West, 3rd floor -no elevator) from Nov 28th to Dec 13th. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.thekingblackbox.com/event-details/bug-by-tracy-letts-2025-12-13-20-00 This review contains many SPOILERS for BUG. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [17:18] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Follow our panelists: Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: @BeforetheDownbeatApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeNSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAu Istvan Dugalin – Instagram: @istvandugalinWebsite: https://istvandugalin.com/Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatreIf you’d like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com

Welcome back to the 259th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 259th episode we bring you a Duet Review of Shrek the Musical, with book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire and music by Jeanine Tesori, directed by Herbie Barnes, presented by Young People’s Theatre. Join host and Co-Artistic Producer Mackenzie Horner and Associate Artistic Producer Jillian Robinson, as they discuss the strengths of YPT’s abridged adaptation, the majesty and ingenuity of this production’s dragon puppet and the inventive ways the show found its balance between individuality and honouring the past films and major productions that proceeded it.Shrek the Musical is playing on the Ada Slaight Stage (165 Front Street East, Toronto, ON M5A 3Z4) from Nov 13th – Dec 30th, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.youngpeoplestheatre.org/tickets/shrek/This review contains many SPOILERS for Shrek the Musical. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [16:18] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Follow our panelists: Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeatApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeNSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAu Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatreIf you’d like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com

Welcome back to the 258th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 258th episode we bring you a Duet Review of tick, tick…BOOM! by Jonathan Larson, directed by Meredith Shedden, presented by Bowtie Productions. Join Ryan Borochovitz and special guest Lori Ossip, as they discuss non-competitive indie producing, footnotes to RENT, and how to traverse New York City by public transit.tick, tick…BOOM! is playing at Alumnae Theatre (70 Berkeley St, Toronto, ON) until November 15th, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://bowtieproductions.ca/tick%2C-tick-boom-1 This review contains many SPOILERS for tick, tick…BOOM! It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [32:31] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Follow our panelists: Lori Ossip – Blog: https://girllikestheatre.com/ // NEXT Mag: https://nextmag.ca/search/%22lori+ossip%22 Ryan Borochovitz – NEXT Mag: https://nextmag.ca/search/borochovitz Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatreIf you’d like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com

Welcome back to the 257th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 257th episode we bring you a Duet Review of Dissonant Species, written by Heather Marie Annis and Michael Gordon Spence, directed by Jacquie P.A. Thomas, and presented by Theatre Gargantua. Join host and Co-Artistic Producer Mackenzie Horner and Associate Artistic Producer Jillian Robinson as they discuss the show’s bold fusion of sound, movement, and emotion; the deeply personal and resonant monologues that explore connection, anxiety, and self-expression; and the ensemble’s masterful collaboration in crafting a visceral, immersive sonic experience.Dissonant Species is playing at Factory Theatre (125 Bathurst Street, Toronto, Ontario M5V 2R2) from November 6th to November 23rd. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://purchase.factorytheatre.ca/EventAvailability?EventId=50602 This review contains many SPOILERS for Dissonant Species. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [16:14] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Follow our panelists: Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeatApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeNSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAu Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatreIf you’d like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com

Welcome back to the 256th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 256th episode we have a new artist interview. This particular conversation is between our Co-Artistic Producer Mackenzie Horner and the Director, Costume and Production Designer of the production Romeo Pimp which we recently covered and the Artistic Director of The King Black Box Sophie Ann Rooney. Together they unpack Sophie's creative process — from conceptualizing and designing a piece to bringing Romeo Pimp to life. The conversation dives behind the scenes into rehearsal-room stories, explores the layers of symbolism Sophie wove into the production, and delves into her reflections on what happens when some audience members miss the subtle details embedded in her work.CONTENT WARNING: This conversion about the play Romeo Pimp contains depictions, references, or implications of sexual exploitation & trafficking, grooming & psychological abuse, mental health & dissociation, substance use, violence, threats & intimidation, verbal & sexualized language themes of consent, power, and identity. If you are a victim or survivor of human trafficking, or think someone might be, please contact the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline to be connected with support services or law enforcement in your community. The Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline can be reached 24/7 by phone at 1-833-900-1010 or online at www.canadianhumantraffickinghotline.ca.Follow Sophie Ann Rooney – Instagram: @shotbylofaFollow The King Black Box – Instagram: @thekingblackboxFollow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatreIf you’d like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com

Welcome back to the 255th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 255th episode we bring you a Duet Review of Doubt: A Parable by John Patrick Shanley, presented by Wren Theatre, directed by Tatum Lee, and starring Bonnie Anderson, Robert Notman, Lizzie Moffatt, and Jessica Myrie. Join Mackenzie Horner and Ryan Borochovitz, as they relitigate a controversial opinion, unspool some twine, and applaud uniquely humanized performances. Doubt: A Parable is playing at the Annex Theatre (730 Bathurst St, Toronto, ON) until October 25th, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.wrentheatre.com/doubt-a-parable CONTENT WARNING: Doubt is concerned with themes of child abuse, sexual violence, homophobia, racism, and paedophilia. As a result, this review, likewise, speaks directly to many of these topics. Viewer discretion is advised. Follow our panelists: Mackenzie Horner (Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast) – Instagram/Facebook: BeforetheDownbeatApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aYbBeNSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3sAbjAuRyan Borochovitz – [Just send all that love to CoH instead; he won’t mind!]; if you enjoy his theatre thoughts, more can be found at https://nextmag.ca/search/borochovitzFollow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatre If you’d like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com

Welcome back to the 254th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 254th episode we have a new artist interview. This particular conversation is between our Associate Artistic Producer Jillian Robinson and Meaghan Salmon the artistic director and co-founder of Sunbeam Theatre Company, and director of their upcoming production of Antigone. Together they discuss the importance of creating your own doors to walk through, implementing a game plan, and paying homage to humanity’s universal truths. Antigone is running from November 5th to 9th, 2025 at the Factory Theatre (125 Bathurst St, Toronto, ON). Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://purchase.factorytheatre.ca/EventAvailability?EventId=50802 Artsworker discount code: ANTIGONE15 Follow Meaghan – All platforms: @meaghan_salmon Follow Sunbeam – Instagram/Facebook/Threads/TikTok: @sunbeamtheatre.co // Website: https://www.sunbeamtheatrecompany.ca/ Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatreIf you’d like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com

Welcome back to the 253rd episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 253rd episode we bring you a Duet Review of Blackbird, written by David Harrower, directed by Dean Deffett, starring Cyrus Lane and Kirstyn Russelle, presented by Talk Is Free Theatre. Join Jillian Robinson and Ryan Borochovitz, as they praise performances, untangle ambiguities, and unpack the trash.Blackbird is playing at Hope United Church (2550 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON) until October 18th, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://www.tift.ca/shows/blackbird CONTENT WARNING: Blackbird contains themes of pedophilia, statutory rape, and sexual abuse; this review, likewise, speaks directly to these topics. Viewer discretion is advised. Less importantly, this review contains many SPOILERS for Blackbird. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [24:08] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Follow our panelists: Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Ryan Borochovitz – [Just send all that love to CoH instead; he won’t mind!]; if you enjoy his theatre thoughts, more can be found at https://nextmag.ca/search/borochovitz Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatreIf you’d like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com.

Welcome back to the 252nd episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 252nd episode we bring you a Duet Review of The Green Line, written and directed by Makram Ayache, presented by In Arms Theatre Company and MENA Collective, in association with Buddies in Bad Times and Factory Theatre. Join Jillian Robinson and Ryan Borochovitz, as they discuss braided histories, dances with duality, and the beauty that can emerge in a violent rupture.The Green Line is playing at Buddies in Bad Times Theatre (12 Alexander Street, Toronto, ON) until October 4th, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://buddiesinbadtimes.com/show/the-green-line/ This review contains many SPOILERS for The Green Line. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [12:38] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Follow our panelists: Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Ryan Borochovitz – [Just send all that love to CoH instead; he won’t mind!]; if you enjoy his theatre thoughts, more can be found at https://nextmag.ca/search/borochovitz Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatreIf you’d like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com.

Welcome back to the 251st episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 251st episode we bring you a Duet Review of Enormity, Girl, & the Earthquake in Her Lungs written by Chelsea Woolley, directed by Andrea Donaldson, presented by Nightwood Theatre in association with Tarragon Theatre. Join host Jillian Robinson and special guest Katie Crompton, as they discuss the necessity to connect, forgive, and empower the past, present, and future self. Enormity, Girl, and the Earthquake in Her Lungs is playing at the Nancy & Ed Jackman Performance Centre (877 Yonge St.) from September 16 to October 5, 2025. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://tapestryopera.my.salesforce-sites.com/ticket/#/events/a0SOF000000KwCj2AK TW: Enormity presents the traumatic impact of child abuse, including physical, sexual, and psychological. It is not graphically depicted in the show, but we discuss these themes in this review. Less importantly, this review contains SPOILERS. The episode will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [00:05:33] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk.Follow our panelists:Jillian Robinson – Instagram: @jillian.robinson96 Katie Crompton – Instagram: @katiecrompton // Upcoming Show : Antigone with @sunbeamtheatre.co at Factory Theatre from November 6th - 9th. Tickets on sale soon! Keep an eye on Sunbeam’s Instagram for the latest updates! Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatreIf you’d like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiriesto coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com.