The Stratford Festival in Stratford, Ontario, has officially opened its 2026 season with a production of The Hobbit. The show began performances on April 21, 2026, at the Avon Theatre and will run until October 23, 2026, with an official opening event scheduled for May 30.
This production, adapted by Kim Selody and directed by Pablo Felices-Luna, features Richard Lee as Bilbo Baggins, Tim Campbell as Gandalf, and Aaron Krohn as Thorin Oakenshield. The show is licensed by Middle-Earth Enterprises and is supported by production sponsor The Schulich Foundation.
The 2026 season marks a significant transition for the theatre company as it is the final year for Artistic Director Antoni Cimolino. Cimolino is concluding a 40-year career with the festival, including 14 years in the top leadership role. Following his departure, Jonathan Church will step into the position on November 1, 2026.
The 2026 season is themed This Rough Magic and includes 12 different productions across four stages. These performances are part of a broader schedule running until November 1. This year’s lineup features a variety of works, including The Tempest, Guys and Dolls, Waiting for Godot, and Othello.
