E18: Valley of the Birdtail: Conversation with Co-Authors Douglas Sanderson (Amo Binashii) and Andrew Stobo Sniderman | Everyday Forum Podcast

From knavish fairies to goblins, elves and spirits, this season’s plays are full of magical, tricksy creatures. What are the origins of fairies in folklore? How do they connect with traditions around the world, and how have fairy stories changed over time? Join University of Toronto associate professor Chester Scoville, novelist Kate Heartfield and actors Laura Condlln and Marissa Orjalo in a discussion of the mysterious and mischievous creatures that continue to charm our stages. This event was recorded in front of a live audience on September 24th, 2026 at the Tom Patterson Theatre in Stratford, Ontario, Canada. EPISODE TRANSCRIPT⁠⁠ Support for The Meighen Forum is generously provided by Kelly & Michael Meighen and the T.R. Meighen Family Foundation.

Working-class people have been portrayed on stage in various ways over the centuries, from the comic relief of the mechanicals in A Midsummer Night's Dream, to the tragedy of Willy Loman in Death of a Salesman. Join labour studies scholar Stephanie Ross, professor Kim Solga, director of Toronto Workers' Theatre Group Aida Jordão and actor Jennifer Villaverde for a discussion of labour on-stage and off, and how fictional characters reflect societal values around labour.

Legendary Artistic Director Antoni Cimolino sits down with acclaimed Chicago Tribune Chief Theatre Critic Chris Jones for a candid exploration of Antoni’s remarkable 39-year journey at the Stratford Festival. From his early work on stage to his influential roles off it, this intimate interview offers rare insight into the experiences and artistic vision that have shaped four decades of theatre excellence.

How have Indigenous theatre artists made Shakespeare their own? Shakespeare's own lifetime coincided with the beginnings of English colonization in North America, and today, artists work in decolonial ways to create art that reflects their culture and assert Indigenous sovereignty. Join Reneltta Arluk, Keith Barker, Waylon Lenk and Yvette Nolan for a discussion of how Shakespeare and Indigeneity intertwine.

An exclusive conversation between veteran director and choreographer Donna Feore and acclaimed writer and essayist, Adam Gopnik. The two offer an inside look at the artistry and cultural impact of one of Broadway’s greatest musicals, Guys and Dolls. This insightful and hilarious conversation explores the show’s 76‑year legacy, its enduring characters and music, and the reasons it continues to captivate theatre‑goers across generations.