By Elke Porter | WBN News Vancouver | June 17, 2025
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Summer Spotlight: TUTS Ignites Vancouver with Magical Musical Marvels at Malkin Bowl - an outdoor amphitheatre located in Stanley Park in Vancouver, British Columbia.

Get ready for a summer filled with enchantment, laughter, and pure imagination as Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS) unveils its highly anticipated 2025 season at the iconic Malkin Bowl in Stanley Park. From June 27 to August 16, audiences of all ages will be transported to fantastical worlds with the return of Legally Blonde The Musical and the Vancouver premiere of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, two musical hits that promise to delight, inspire, and entertain.

Excellence Meets Contemporary Charm

Since 1940, TUTS has been the heartbeat of Vancouver’s theatrical landscape, blending outdoor magic with top-tier productions. This summer’s lineup continues that legacy, spotlighting stories that celebrate positivity, resilience, and the boundless power of imagination. Early bird tickets are available now through June 11, with prices starting at just $35—make sure to secure your seat for a season that promises unforgettable memories.

Chocolate, Candy, and Endless Imagination — The Return of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Roald Dahl’s beloved novel leaps off the page in this vibrant musical adaptation, which originally debuted in London’s West End in 2013 before dazzling Broadway audiences in 2017. Bursting with whimsical melodies like “The Candy Man,” “Pure Imagination,” and the catchy “Oompa Loompa Song,” the show invites viewers into the magical world of Willy Wonka’s factory. Young Charlie Bucket’s adventure begins when he wins a golden ticket, leading him through a wonderland where every corner reveals a treat for the senses—and lessons about humility, kindness, and curiosity.

Directed by Peter Jorgensen, returning to the TUTS stage with a fresh energy, and choreographed by Keri Minty—whose previous collaborations include Joseph and Oliver!—the production features a stellar line-up of local talent. Notable cast members include Peter Ricardo as Willy Wonka and Henry Sudds as Charlie, alongside a talented ensemble that brings Dahl’s fantastical characters to life.

A Celebration of Girl Power and Comedy — Legally Blonde The Musical Returns

Fresh from its acclaim across stages worldwide, Legally Blonde makes its vibrant return to Malkin Bowl. Based on the cult film, this high-energy production follows Elle Woods, a sorority queen who defies stereotypes and crushes barriers at Harvard Law School. With its infectious songs, including “Omigod You Guys” and “So Much Better,” and an empowering message about staying true to oneself, the show continues to inspire audiences with its blend of comedy, heart, and undeniable girl power.

Directed by Jayme Armstrong and choreographed by Lyndsey Britten, the production boasts an impressive local cast led by first-time TUTS’ debutant Abby Woodhouse as Elle Woods. The cast also features Nathaniel Johnson as Emmett and Viviana Renteria as Vivienne, promising a dynamic rendition of this modern classic.

Accessible and Inclusive Experiences

TUTS is committed to making theatre accessible for everyone. This season features a VocalEye live description performance of Legally Blonde on July 25 and relaxed performances on July 28 and 29, designed for guests on the autism spectrum or with sensory processing differences. Additionally, the introduction of Betterear app technology will allow those who are hard of hearing to enjoy performances fully with real-time audio streaming directly to their smartphones.

Special community nights, including PAL Pass the Hat and partnerships with the Canucks Autism Network and Wavefront Centre for Communication Accessibility, underscore TUTS’ dedication to fostering inclusive arts experiences.

Plan Your Summer Backstage Pass

Early bird tickets, on sale now through June 11, offer an affordable way to experience these summer sensations with prices starting at $35. For tickets and information, visit tuts.ca.

This season, Vancouver’s longstanding outdoor theatre tradition continues to flourish, blending artistic excellence with community engagement amid the lush backdrop of Stanley Park’s Douglas Firs. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in stories that ignite joy, spark imagination, and celebrate the enduring spirit of theatre.

About Theatre Under the Stars:

Celebrating 85 years of outdoor theatrical excellence, TUTS creates magical experiences rooted in Vancouver’s natural beauty. Known for innovative productions and commitment to youth and community, TUTS stands as a bright star in the city’s cultural landscape.

#Vancouver Theatre #TUTS Summer #Malkin Bowl #Musical Magic #Family Fun #Outdoor Theatre #WBN News Vancouver #Elke Porter

Connect with Elke at Westcoast German Media or on LinkedIn: Elke Porter or contact her on WhatsApp:  +1 604 828 8788

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