The friendship of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien has long been a subject of fascination for historians and literary lovers alike.
Now, you can see the revered duo’s relationship unfold on stage with the Canadian premiere of a new play about the lives of these prolific writers.
Set in Oxford in 1963, Lewis & Tolkien brings to life the powerful dialogues, philosophical debates, and creative struggles that shaped their iconic fantasy works.
The play was written by Dean Batali, a producer and writer known for his work on That ’70s Show, Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Sabrina: Secrets of a Teenage Witch.
It’s also the first of its kind to delve into the complex and profound friendship between two of the 20th century’s most beloved authors.
Lewis & Tolkien will make its Canadian premiere in Calgary, running from Oct. 15 to Oct. 26, 2025, at Engineered Air Theatre.
What to expect
Fire Exit Theatre and Hit & Myth Productions will present the Canadian premiere of Lewis & Tolkien, a rare chance to see the two authors brought to life on stage.
“The play is an extraordinary glimpse into the personal lives of these two literary giants,” said Joel Cochrane, Artistic Producer of Hit & Myth Production, in a press release.
“We know their work, but what do we know about them?” he continued. “What was their relationship really like? Did they influence each other’s work? Did they inspire and challenge each other? What was the nature of their friendship?”
C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien met in 1926 at a university faculty meeting, where the two English literature students discovered they shared a like-minded interest in languages, poetry, myth, and storytelling.
Tolkien wrote of Lewis later in life, “He was for long my only audience.” The two frequently discussed and reviewed each other’s creative works, including the fantasy worlds of Middle-earth and Narnia, as well as the series of books inspired by them.
The duo were an intellectual match who bonded over their shared sense of companionship. They both survived harrowing experiences in the trenches of World War I and the loss of their parents as children.
Theatrical storytelling backed by historical sources
Lewis & Tolkien blends historical fact with theatrical storytelling, crafting a compelling story that will appeal to fans of all ages.
The play will draw from letters, essays and recorded conversations that speak to the relationship between the two authors.
It’ll also offer a rare glimpse into the world of the Inklings, an informal literary group that includes other major writers like Charles Williams and Owen Barfield.
The group of writers often sparked late-night discussion about fantasy worlds and magical realms over shared pub pints.
“The story of these two men who laughed and fought and encouraged and critiqued and loved each other imperfectly could not be more relevant for today,” said Val Lieske, Fire Exit Theatre’s Executive Artistic Director. “May they inspire us to dare to debate fiercely over our beliefs all the while enjoying a pint and each other’s company.”
The play will debut on Oct. 15, 2025 for opening night, and performances will continue until Oct. 26.
It’s the perfect time of year to cozy up to a story of two of the world’s most prolific fantasy authors. We can’t wait!
When: Wednesday, Oct. 15 to Sunday, Oct. 26, 2025
Where: Engineered Air Theatre — 234 9th Ave. SE
Cost: $28+
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Em Medland-Marchen
Em is a Staff Writer for Curiocity Calgary. They are passionate about live music, rose gardens, iced coffee, their dogs Bandit and Stanley, and walks along the Bow River.
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