Description

Astronomically fun for the whole family!

We have lift off! Following its sold-out world premiere in 2023,
Chris Hadfield’s The Darkest Dark touches down for a special return engagement!

It’s the summer of 1969 and Apollo 11 is about to land on the moon. Nine-year-old space-loving Chris dreams of becoming a brave astronaut and is counting down the days to the televised event. But at bedtime, when the night closes in, so too does his fear of the dark. With his family and best friends by his side, young Chris realizes that watching history being made hinges on conquering his fear and embracing the unknown.

Inspired by astronaut Chris Hadfield’s bestselling children’s book, this Dora Award-winning stage adaptation (Outstanding Production) blasted off to rave reviews.

“The cast SOARS…an INSPIRING and ENTERTAINING all-ages show.”
– The Globe and Mail

“‘The Darkest Dark’ successfully brings Chris Hadfield’s bestseller to the stage. GORGEOUS production…with a gentle and kind spirit.”
– Toronto Star

“The stage adaptation is immensely successful with fine acting from the entire cast. YPT gives the show a DAZZLING production featuring clever design, projections, puppets and magic to make this a WONDERFUL show for the whole family.”
– Stage Door

“BURSTING WITH COLOUR and ENERGY. Jim Millan’s direction is lively, energetic, poignant, funny and smart.”
– The Slotkin Letter

“A CHARMING theatrical adaptation that shoots for the stars.”
– Intermission Magazine

“I had a wonderful time, as did every other child and adult in the audience. If you have a young person in your life, The Darkest Dark is a RUN-DON’T-WALK.”
– Ludwig Van Toronto

“WONDERFUL! ABSOLUTELY WONDERFUL!
A terrific family outing…the perfect choice to introduce young people to the wonders of live theatre. GO SEE IT.”
– Our Theatre Voice

“FUNNY…THRILLING…MOVING. Captures childhood awe and imagination.”
– istvandugalin.com

In February 2023, YPT launched the world premiere of this magical stage adaptation. The Darkest Dark received rave reviews as well as the 2023 Dora Award for Outstanding Production.

“The creation of The Darkest Dark has been another challenging journey in my life. Jim [Millan]’s thirty years of creating incredible theatre and expertise in the world of magic provides the perfect vehicle to envelop audiences. As Canada’s premier theatre for young audiences, YPT offers over half a century of expertise in arts and education. The commitment the company shows to child development through the arts gave me confidence that The Darkest Dark would be in safe – and extraordinary – hands.”

– Commander Chris Hadfield, Astronaut

Teacher Resources

• For information on Play Companion Workshops, click here.
• Study Guide

Developed with support from the National Arts Centre’s National Creation Fund.