Presented by Urban Ink in collaboration with The Cultch
TRANSFORM FESTIVAL
Produced by Urban Ink (Vancouver)
Curated by Corey Payette
Indigenous and non-Indigenous artists come together to create electrifying works of theatre, music, drag, circus, and comedy.
25/26 CULTCH PRESENTATION
NOV 06–15, 2025
VANCOUVER PLAYHOUSE
Vancouver Playhouse
600 Hamilton St,
Vancouver, BC
Phone:604-251-1363
Email: [email protected]
Summer Hours
Monday to Friday: 12–4pm
Saturday & Sunday: Closed
From left to right: Notorious Cree photograph by Al Lau. Venus, photograph by Garry Dosa. Sido Adamson, photograph by Garry Dosa. The company of On Native Land, photograph by Garry Dosa.
About the Festival
Get ready for a sensational experience at the Vancouver Playhouse with TRANSFORM Festival’s sixth year taking center stage!
From November 6–15, the iconic Vancouver Playhouse will be electrified by five nights of jaw-dropping performances. Co-founded by Corey Payette and Heather Redfern in 2019, TRANSFORM Festival builds relationships and brings communities together to create cultural shifts and cutting-edge world-class performance. This year’s festival continues to break new ground by spotlighting Indigenous artists and fostering dynamic collaborations with non-Indigenous talents. Expect a spectacular fusion of theatre, music, drag, circus, comedy, and more, all designed to forge connections and spark social change.
The Line up
Transform Festival: Opening Bash
NOV 06, 2025 | 7:30 PM
VANCOUVER PLAYHOUSE
Kick off TRANSFORM Festival with a bang at our epic Opening BASH!
Prepare for an electrifying fusion of dance, circus, comedy, drag, and mind-blowing performances that will defy your expectations. The night promises to showcase the dazzling intersection of these incredible artists in a way you’ve never seen before!
Run time: 90 min, no intermission
Wolf Cull
WORKSHOP PRODUCTION
NOV 07, 2025 | 7:30 PM
VANCOUVER PLAYHOUSE
A TRANSFORMATIVE INDIGENOUS THRILLER
In the near future, in an invented Indigenous territory, five young women — Rebel, Leader, Brawn Wildcard, and Skeptic — are drawn by a shared dream to the hunting grounds, where they uncover mysterious tracks that challenge their skills and the group’s fragile unity. How does the creature manifest within and how do we track, hunt, and transform it?
This development production of this gripping one-act thriller explores internalized trauma, the knowledge and power of Indigenous women, and the process of healing.
Run time: 90 min, no intermission
WHERE THE
RIVERS MEET
NOV 08, 2025 | 7:30 PM
VANCOUVER PLAYHOUSE
Where the Rivers Meet is a musical journey that celebrates the deep connections between Indigenous cultures and water. Featuring an extraordinary lineup, this concert unites Indigenous composers with non-Indigenous musicians and choirs.
This one-of-a-kind concert weaves ancient traditions with modern harmonies, creating a unique celebration of resilience, identity, and unity. Notable artists and composers, known for their groundbreaking work, join forces to push the boundaries of musical collaboration.
Run time: 120 min, with intermission
THE STARWALKER EXPERIENCE
NOV 14, 2025 | 7:30 PM
VANCOUVER PLAYHOUSE
Join us for an evening celebrating the music of Starwalker, an award-winning musical written and composed by Corey Payette. Featuring a live band and local drag heroes!
Run time: 120 min, with intermission
Presented as part of TRANSFORM 2025
The Mush HOle
NOV 14–16, 2025
HISTORIC THEATRE
By Santee Smith
Toured by Kaha:wi Dance Theatre
(Tkarón:to / Toronto)
A theatrical dance performance about Canada’s first Indian residential school: The Mohawk Institute, aka The Mush Hole.
TRANSFORM FESTIVAL:
CLOSING BASH
NOV 15, 2025 | 7:30 PM
VANCOUVER PLAYHOUSE
Ending the Festival in style, don’t miss our Closing BASH featuring some Festival favourites and a few surprises!
Expect an unforgettable night with delightfully odd and eccentric performances.
Run time: 90 min, no intermission
TRANSFORM Festival 2024 Highlights
TICKET PRICES
THE STARWALKER EXPERIENCE, & CLOSING BASH:
Section A:
$59
Section B:
$39
Section C:
$19
(WORKSHOP PRODUCTION):
Section A:
$29
Section C:
$19
EARLY BIRD SALE
Save 25% on the best seats to Opening BASH, Where the Rivers Meet, The Starwalker Experience and Closing BASH! (Section A and B)
The discount will automatically apply — no promo code necessary!
*Offer expires August 31, cannot be combined with other promotions. Offer is valid for TRANSFORM shows at the Vancouver Playhouse only.
FESTIVAL OFFER
See all 5 Playhouse shows from the best seats for $150!
Select a Section A seat for each TRANSFORM show at the Vancouver Playhouse and the discount will automatically apply.
**Offer is not eligible for The Mush Hole.
WAYS TO SAVE
Complimentary tickets are available for Indigenous patrons thanks to the support of the Ronald S. Roadburg Foundation.
Use promo code INDIGENOUS to book up to two complimentary tickets. Those who wish to book tickets for a larger group or family can contact [email protected]
The Cultch Connects Program provides complimentary tickets to community organizations and social service groups. It also offers complimentary tickets to individuals and families who may otherwise face barriers to attending Cultch performances. To request Cultch Connects tickets, please email [email protected]
This program is made possible with the support of our generous donor community. Learn more about what your donation can do for our community.
Your Season.
Your Ticket Package.
Your Cultch.
25/26 SEASON
Save up to 30% with a Season Ticket Package!
You can select this show when you purchase a 25/26 Season Ticket Package. Packages start at $99.
