By Emily R. Zarevich, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Enormous platters of shrimp, bruschetta, and stuffed mushrooms. Glamorously dressed people socializing and sipping cocktails. Glitter and glitz all around, and a universally shared love for performing for the masses. Is this Hollywood being described, or Burlington, Ontario? This time, it’s Burlington. Hollywood already had its turn this year.
On Saturday, June 28, 2025, Drury Lane Theatre opened its doors to the local theatre scene for a night honouring theatre excellence. It was the yearly Drury Lane Awards Night, Burlington’s own opportunity to elevate Halton-based talent. The theme was Old Hollywood, and the event planning team, led by event coordinator and three-time award recipient Sheila Flis, delivered. Sumptuous food and desserts were provided by Leave It To Us catering service.
Drury Lane Theatre has enjoyed a highly successful season this year, wowing audiences with its heartwarming Holiday Inn, its riotously funny Music Hall, its always-family-friendly Christmas pantomime, and of course, the laugh-inducing dark musical comedy A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder. An extra bonus of the evening was that Drury Lane was also celebrating its 50th anniversary. Fifty years of keeping Burlington entertained. These are all perfect reasons for a party.
Paul Damario was the quirky host of the evening. “I think you will all agree with me,” he declared, “That, so far, this has been the best season ever!” The participatory audience members, all familiar with each other, hurled friendly jokes and quips his way all through the ceremony. Damario gave it back just as good. “How many holidays were celebrated in Holiday Inn?!” he challenged the audience during the trivia portion of the night. “All of them!” shouted out one guest. “Great answer, but wrong!” Damario flung back.
Though the actors and actresses are the ones who are seen on stage, there was plenty of recognition for those who work backstage. Michael Belton and Alison Anderson collected Best Set Construction and Scenic Painting for Holiday Inn. Michael MacLennan, who is notable for being the director of the Broadway revue Finales, took away Best Set Design for A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder. Best Costume Design went to Carrie Mines and Mary Buzzelli for their work outfitting the cast of the 44th Annual Music Hall. Sabrina Sikora enjoyed a double win with Best Lighting Design and Best Sound Design for A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder.
For those who couldn’t score tickets to the Mirvish theatre’s production of Beetlejuice in Toronto, there was a surprise treat that more than made up for it. Mia Hickey, a winner of the 2025 Young Artist Competition, performed her own outstanding rendition of “Dead Mom,” Lydia Deetz’s mourning ballad. Hickey is a young starlet in the making, and her actual mom, who is very much not dead, beamed proudly in her seat.
Lucas Chabot, who debuted as the scheming cad Ted Hanover in Holiday Inn, tied for Best Male Newcomer with Nathan Farmer, the criminal lead of A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder. Farmer’s co-star Lindsay Orlowski took Best Female Newcomer. Best Female Lead went to Michelle Wagman of Holiday Inn, who wasn’t present to accept her award. Her husband and co-star, Jacob M. Wagman, accepted on her behalf. Best Male Lead was awarded to the incredibly versatile Adam Holroyd, who impressed Burlington by playing no less than nine different roles in A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder. In his acceptance speech, Holroyd described practicing his various characters’ voices while telling his young daughter bedtime stories. And finally, Holiday Inn deservedly won Best Production, and married producer team Heather and Randy Bridge stepped onto the stage to accept their due.
Though this season of Drury Lane Theatre is now officially over, the Drury Lane family is already moving full speed ahead towards their next one. Next up this year, a production of Mel Brooks’ Young Frankenstein, which will premiere in the fall.
