Sketches of Leacock

Adapted by Andy Massingham from the writings of
Stephen Leacock
Directed by Andy Massingham

August 5th – 23rd, 2026

The brilliant and satiric writing of Canada’s much beloved author and essayist Stephen Leacock (1869-1944) is the inspiration of this world premiere. In Sketches of Stephen Leacock, Andy Massingham brings together the myriads of eccentric characters Leacock became world-famous for.

Often called “Canada’s Mark Twain,” and lauded by
Groucho Marx as, “The funniest writer I have ever read”, Leacock wrote of thwarted love, bank managers, angry customers, nosy neighbours, love-struck kids (and NOT kids). They are all here for the fun and Leacock skewers them all wit his razor-sharp wit.

You will find yourself recognizing the same pitfalls and potholes which bedevil us all, as you stroll with us through Leacock’s fabled and imaginary town of Mariposa in an evening of laughter, music and celebration of one of Canada’s literary giants.

The Creatives
Andy Massingham is a Toronto-based Dora Mavor Moore and Prix Rideau Award-winning actor, director, teacher and playwright.

Andy has worked across Canada as an actor at such venues as the Stratford Festival, National Arts Centre, Theatre New Brunswick, the Banff Centre, Tarragon, Soulpepper,
and Young Peoples Theatre, among many others.

He is also a faculty member of the Toronto Film
School. This is Andy’s fifth season with Theatre on the Ridge.

Behind The Scenes
Suitable for ages 8+

Running time: approx. 90 minutes + intermission

Cast and Crew

Manon Bourgeois 

Henry Oswald Peirson

Blake Pyne

Jenna Hsu

Jane Miller