December 14, 2025 | Port Dover, ON – Lighthouse Festival is thrilled to unveil the cast for its highly anticipated 2026 Community Show production of the Broadway musical Curtains, running April 10 to 26, 2026 at Lighthouse Theatre in Port Dover.

A hilarious whodunnit wrapped inside a splashy Golden Age musical, Curtains brings together an extraordinary group of local performers eager to dive into this high-energy, laugh-packed production. Directed by David Leyshon, a familiar face to Lighthouse audiences and a passionate supporter of live theatre, the show continues Lighthouse Festival’s longstanding commitment to celebrating local talent on a national-calibre stage.

Director David Leyshon shares his excitement for the production: “Curtains is both a musical and a murder mystery, which makes it incredibly fun to work on. It’s also one of the funniest musicals out there; it’s gloriously chaotic, delightfully witty, and packed with heart. I can’t wait for audiences to come along on this ride – to hear these songs, solve the mystery, and experience just how hilarious this show really is.”

Leyshon adds: “We’ve assembled a fantastic group to bring Curtains to life. Seeing this cast come together and already finding the rhythm of the comedy and the fun of the songs has been an absolute joy. I just know they’re going to blow audiences away.”

Members of the cast echo this enthusiasm as rehearsals begin. “Music and theatre have been my passion since high school. I’ve made so many amazing friends by getting involved with theatre,” says Jim Donovan, who plays Lieutenant Frank Cioffi. “Getting up on stage helped me grow into a more confident person, and encouraged me to dream big. I am so excited to be performing in my very first Lighthouse show, and I can’t wait to work with this amazing cast and crew!”

Brent Millard, who plays the role of Director Christopher Belling, adds: “I am super excited about the opportunity to play the part of the director in the upcoming community production of Curtains. I grew up in Haldimand/Norfolk and have recently moved back to area to be closer to my Mother in Port Dover. What I am most excited about is finding a new theatre family to work and collaborate with to bring the best show possible to the area. Looking forward to this opportunity!”

For Jada Dawson, who takes on the lead role of Niki Harris, it’s about having fun: “Thrilled to be back for my sixth community show with Lighthouse! Promise I’m not the murderer… probably.”

Lighthouse Festival’s Marketing and Communications Manager, Don Kearney-Bourque, highlights the announcement as a spring season milestone. “Our Community Show is one of the most joyful traditions we have,” he says. “Seeing local performers step into a Broadway musical with this much comedy, music, and heart is nothing short of magic.”

Leyshon concludes: “I’m very excited to bring Curtains to the Lighthouse stage. Between the talent in this cast and the sheer fun of the material, I know we’re creating something special. Rehearsals are already a riot, so I can only imagine what the performances will be like.”

Tickets are on sale now at lighthousetheatre.com or by calling the box office at 888-779-7703.

Curtains runs April 10–26, 2026 at Lighthouse Theatre in Port Dover.

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Meet the Cast

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About Lighthouse Festival

Lighthouse Festival is a charitable organization devoted to the development and production of new and existing Canadian plays. The organization strives to be artistically excellent, support and encourage local and regional artists, and be a source of enjoyment and pride in local communities while promoting local tourism. Located in two beautiful towns on Lake Erie, our theatres operate on a central policy of hospitality, inclusivity, accessibility, and affordability for all.

Media Contact

For media inquiries, interview requests, or further information, please contact:

October 31, 2025 | Port Dover, ON – Lighthouse Festival is proud to announce that it has been named a finalist for the Canadian Queer Chamber of Commerce’s (CQCC) 2025 Business Awards, specifically for the inaugural Rainbow Registered PRISM Award.

The new award recognizes businesses that go above and beyond Rainbow Registered accreditation to become visible champions of 2SLGBTQI+ inclusion in their industry and community. Recipients exemplify leadership in embedding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) across all areas of their organization, including:

• Workplace culture: Creating a safe, welcoming environment where 2SLGBTQI+ employees can thrive.
• Client experience: Ensuring every patron and visitor feels respected, represented, and included.
• Community engagement: Actively supporting and participating in 2SLGBTQI+ initiatives across the region.
• Operational practices: Upholding progressive, non-discriminatory policies that celebrate all identities.

This is the first year the PRISM Award will be presented, marking a major milestone in recognizing Canadian organizations that are leading the way in inclusive business practices. The 2025 CQCC Business Leadership Awards will take place on Friday, November 14, at The CARLU in Toronto.

“Being recognized as a finalist for the PRISM Award is deeply meaningful to everyone at Lighthouse Festival,” said Don Kearney-Bourque, Marketing & Communications Manager. “Our goal has always been to be a beacon for equality and to ensure our theatres are spaces where all people feel safe, celebrated, and seen. We’re proud to stand alongside other leaders who share that vision, and we’ll continue to be a voice for those who sometimes feel marginalized.”

Lighthouse Festival is honoured to represent Norfolk County and the Niagara Region on the national stage, shining a light on how rural arts organizations can drive meaningful change through inclusion and visibility.

For a full list of nominees or to find out more about the CQCC’s 2025 Business Awards, please visit https://queerchamber.ca/event/10th-annual-black-white-gala/.

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About Lighthouse Festival

Lighthouse Festival is a charitable organization devoted to the development and production of new and existing Canadian plays. Lighthouse Festival strives to be artistically excellent, support and encourage local and regional artists, and be a source of enjoyment and pride in local communities while promoting local tourism. Located in two beautiful towns on Lake Erie, our theatres operate on a central policy of hospitality, inclusivity, accessibility, and affordability for all.

Media Contact

For media inquiries, interview requests, or further information, please contact:

Don Kearney-Bourque
Marketing & Communications Manager
Lighthouse Festival Theatre Corporation
don@lighthousetheatre.com
Direct: (226) 290-0070
Cell: (289)541-7410

October 1, 2025 | Port Dover, ON – Lighthouse Festival is thrilled to announce the return of its annual Halloween favourite — the Rocky Horror Picture Show screening and dance — now in its 11th year. This year’s event is especially electrifying as it coincides with the 50th anniversary of the cult-classic film. The celebration takes place at Lighthouse Theatre in Port Dover on Saturday, October 25, 2025 and promises a night of outrageous fun, unforgettable costumes, and spine-tingling music.

This 19+ event has become a beloved tradition for the local community and beyond, attracting fans of the film and newcomers alike. Attendees are encouraged to bring props to fully immerse themselves in the interactive screening experience — everything from toast and rice to newspapers and water pistols. After the film, the party continues with a Halloween dance featuring live DJ entertainment from Black Creek Music, ensuring the energy stays high all night long.

Guests can also look forward to mouth-watering catering provided by The Barrel Restaurant, one of Norfolk County’s favourite dining destinations. To add to the excitement, prizes will be awarded for the best costumes, so attendees are encouraged to come dressed in their most creative, daring, or downright spooky attire.

Don Kearney-Bourque, Marketing and Communications Manager at Lighthouse Festival, shares his enthusiasm for the tradition:

“This event has truly become one of Lighthouse Festival’s great Halloween traditions. Every year, the atmosphere is electric — a mix of nostalgia, celebration, and just pure fun. There’s something magical about seeing a theatre full of people singing, dancing, and celebrating together. We couldn’t be more excited to mark the 50th anniversary of Rocky Horror with our community this year.”

With a cult following spanning five decades, The Rocky Horror Picture Show continues to unite audiences in a joyful and rebellious celebration of individuality and creativity. Lighthouse Festival’s annual screening has become a cornerstone of Port Dover’s Halloween festivities, and this milestone year promises to be the biggest and boldest yet.

As in past years, guests are encouraged to bring non-perishable items for the Port Dover and area Lifeline Food Bank.

Tickets are expected to sell quickly for this once-a-year event. Don’t miss your chance to do the “Time Warp” and dance the night away with fellow fans.

Event Details:

• What: 12th Annual Rocky Horror Picture Show Screening & Halloween Dance
• When: Saturday, October 25, 2025 at 7:30 PM (Doors Open at 6:30 PM)
• Where: Lighthouse Theatre, Port Dover
• Ages: 19+ only
• Catering: The Barrel Restaurant
• Music: Black Creek Music
• Extras: Costume contest with prizes, bring-your-own props

Tickets are available now at lighthousetheatre.com or by calling 1-888-779-7703.