FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Cast Announced for Lighthouse Festival’s 2026 Community Show Production of the Broadway Musical Curtains

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.

Meet the Cast

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.

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