Community Backyard Performance

The Concept

The Community Backyard Performance is a happening performed by friends for friends. Quick and dirty by design, it requires minimal rehearsal and a generous amount of spirit. Audience is invited both as witness and co-creator.

Historical Context

The roots of the Backyard Play stretch back to 2010 in Parkdale, Toronto. Members of the Galley House, a communal vegetarian home, first invited their neighbours to a performance of the hit musical Annie after just two hours of rehearsal. The practice continued for years, with Galley residents performing improbable feats such as The Wizard of Oz and Newsies. Since moving west, Sean has carried the spirit of these performances forward, inviting friends to perform for friends while gradually creating work that is more ethereal and responsive to the themes of the present moment.

Banner with the text 'Other Forces: An Inquiry on Living in Such Times' in green and yellow on a peach background.

Theme of Birthday Performance 2026:

Person standing in front of a curtain with hands raised, creating a shadow projection on the curtain that resembles a monster or creature with its hands spreading out.

Performance Details

Working title: Other Forces
Date: Saturday August 15, 2026
Time: 6:30pm to 9pm
Location: Front yard - 408 Edward Street, VicWest

Soft dress code: Audience dresses in BLACK. Feel free to bring layers and/or extra pieces to share. Nobody will be turned away, so please come even if not prepared.

Note to Audience:
This is a collective ritual. Audience members will be invited as both witness and participant. Due to moments of discomfort and possible unsettling subject matter, this is for adults only.

Please invite your strange friends

Rehearsal Schedule for Performers:

Thursday, August 6: 6-8pm : Church of Truth, 111 Superior Street

Thursday, August 13, 6-8pm, 408 Edward St.

Saturday, August 15, 5-6:30pm, 408 Edward St.

*6:30pm performance

A painting depicting a scene at night with a moon in the sky. A central mythical creature with the body of a goat, the head of a human, and large, curved horns is surrounded by people sitting and interacting around it. The scene includes a mix of children and adults, some in traditional or old-fashioned clothing, engaging socially in a natural, outdoor setting with mountains in the background.