More than a dozen years ago, a group of people were stuck for 24 hours in a Tim Hortons outlet in Sarnia, Ontario. As they scarfed down sweet treats to stay alive, one of the last things going through their minds was likely, ‘hmm this would actually made a super-good, like, musical I think.’ But that’s where we are, and the stage production inspired by this uniquely Canadian story is getting its world premiere in Toronto next month.
The new Canadian musical titled The Last Timbit is set to debut at the Elgin Theatre in Toronto from June 26 to 30. The production revolves around a group of diverse individuals who find themselves snowed in at a Tim Hortons restaurant during a severe blizzard. The narrative explores themes of family, community, and resilience, drawing inspiration from the event in Sarnia in 2010.
Perhaps not surprisingly, the idea of turning the odd story into a theatrical production was sparked by a marketing company named Gut, which Tim Hortons hired to find ways to celebrate its 60th anniversary on May 17. And, yes, there will be some unique The Last Timbit merchandise and tasty treats available. Another iconic Canadian brand, Roots, is collaborating on the merchandise.
“We’re thrilled to be working with Michael Rubinoff and an incredible team and cast to bring ‘The Last Timbit‘ to life,” said Hope Bagozzi, Chief Marketing Officer for Tim Hortons.
The corporation is sparing no expense in putting together an impressive team to pull off this unique marketing exercise turned musical theatre. The person helming the production is Michael Rubinoff of the acclaimed musical Come From Away. A natural choice given that production has its fair share of Tim Horton’s references.
Come From Away also returns to Toronto this fall.
“Great musical theatre is telling compelling stories. Every day across the country, millions of Canadians come together at Tim Hortons where life’s stories unfold,” said Rubinoff, who won an Olivier Award and received a Tony Award nomination for Come From Away.
The musical features a talented cast including Chilina Kennedy, Jake Epstein, last seen in Boy Falls From The Sky (pictured at top) , and others, with music and lyrics by Anika Johnson and Britta Johnson, and a book by Nick Green. Directed by Brian Hill, with choreography by Genny Sermonia, the production promises to captivate audiences with its heartwarming storyline and humor.
“Every Canadian has a relationship with Tim Hortons, it’s a marker of so many huge events in all of our lives – and what an incredible thing to write songs about,” said Britta Johnson, in a press release. “That is a rich playground for writing and we’re really excited about what we’ve made.”
According to producer Rubinoff, The Last Timbit celebrates the communal spiri. The musical aims to evoke nostalgia and connection, resonating with audiences through its portrayal of everyday Canadian experiences.