Toronto Masque Theatre launches its 10th anniversary season with Patrick Garland‘s classic work for the stage, Brief Lives. This co-production with Soulpepper Theatre Company forms part of their 6th Annual Global Cabaret Festival. The show has been transformed into an interdisciplinary performance featuring live music and projections.

Brief Lives is based on the writings of John Aubrey, known as the first biographer in the English language. Set in 1697, in Aubrey’s rundown lodgings, it is as much a portrait of the man – a scholar, antiquarian and close observer of those around him – as it is of the stories he tells. The role of Aubrey will be played by acclaimed actor William Webster, founding member and Resident Artist at Soulpepper.

Live music will be mixed into the production and feature traditional ballads and popular music from the era. The music will act as a counterpoint to the stories that Aubrey tells: memories and reminisces.

The production will feature musicians Katherine Hill, soprano and viola da gamba, Terry McKenna, lute and guitar and Larry Beckwith, leading from the violin. Set design by Ken MacKenzie and lighting design by Gabriel Cropley. Directed by Derek Boyes.

Performances of Brief Lives will run from October 25th to 27th, 8:15pm; with Saturday and Sunday matinees, 3:15pm. All performances take place at the  Young Centre for the Performing Arts in the Distillery District.

The Global Festival Cabaret will feature the best in music, dance, and theatrical cabaret all under one roof. The entire Young Centre will be transformed into a Cabaret venue with over 150 of Canada’s leading performing artists staging over 15 original one-hour songbooks and cabarets. For more on Soulpepper’s Global Cabaret Festival, go to the festival website.

*Main Photo: Tariq Kieran, Original Light Studios