After a successful run off-Broadway, the production of Heated Rivalry: The Unauthorized Musical Parody is coming to Toronto for a limited engagement at Soulpepper Theatre from July 9. The show, inspired by a popular Canadian TV series, is a queer hockey romance that has garnered significant momentum.
The concept for the musical parody emerged when writer-composer Dylan MarcAurele envisioned turning the on-screen romance between Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov into a musical after binge-watching the TV series. The idea quickly gained traction, evolving from initial songwriting sessions to sold-out concert readings and eventually landing an off-Broadway run, fueled by the passionate fanbase of the original show.
Director-producer Alan Kliffer expressed his excitement about bringing the production to Canada, emphasizing the timing and the show’s growing popularity. The off-Broadway premiere in New York was met with overwhelming success, prompting an extension of the original eight-week run.
Soulpepper Theatre in Toronto was selected as the ideal venue for the Canadian debut of Heated Rivalry. Artistic director Paolo Santalucia welcomed the musical parody, noting its alignment with the theater’s values of showcasing diverse and engaging Canadian works.
The Toronto staging, scheduled for July 9 to 12, will be presented as a staged concert reading due to logistical considerations. Despite this format, Kliffer assured that the production will maintain its entertainment value, featuring light costuming and props to enhance the audience’s experience.
Following the Toronto performances, the Canadian cast will travel to Montreal for the Just for Laughs comedy festival before expanding their reach to the UK later in the year. Kliffer expressed his hopes for a full-stage production in Canada, emphasizing his desire to see the show’s original stars and creative team witness the musical adaptation firsthand.
