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Barrie Blog

 

A Month of Music, Stories, and Stage Lights in Barrie This May

As spring begins to bloom across Barrie, May brings with it a vibrant soundtrack, one that echoes through theatres, churches, and performance spaces across the city. From sweeping orchestras and intimate piano recitals to Broadway showstoppers and nostalgic tribute concerts, there’s no better time to immerse yourself in the arts and experience music in all its forms.

Make it more than just a show,  make it a full night out. Pair your evening with a reservation at one of Barrie’s locally owned restaurants, enjoy a pre-show cocktail or post-show dessert, and let the rhythm of the city carry you from dinner to curtain call.

What's On:

Bravado

 

Curtains Up! A Broadway Celebration
Presented by Bravado! Show Choir: May 1–2, 2026 | Georgian Theatre

There’s something undeniably magical about Broadway, and this May, that magic takes centre stage in Barrie. Curtains Up! by Bravado! Show Choir is more than a performance; it’s a love letter to musical theatre.

With a live band, dynamic choreography, and powerhouse vocals, the show brings beloved numbers from iconic productions like Les Misérables, Chicago, Wicked, and Kinky Boots to life. Framed within the story of a theatre preparing for one final curtain call, audiences are swept through decades of unforgettable music and emotion, from toe-tapping ensemble pieces to deeply moving solos.

Make it a night: Start your evening with dinner in Barrie's north end, then step into a world of theatrical nostalgia and energy.

Don’t miss your chance to experience Broadway in Barrie - purchase your tickets now.



Tango Fantasia
Presented by Barrie Concerts: May 2, 2026 | HiWay Church

Passion, precision, and powerful storytelling come together in Tango Fantasia, presented by Barrie Concerts. Featuring Solidaridad Tango, a groundbreaking all-women ensemble nominated for the 2025 Canadian Folk Music Awards, this performance celebrates both tradition and innovation.

Rooted in the rich history of Golden Age tango while spotlighting contemporary female composers from around the world, the performance is both intimate and electrifying, a rare chance to experience tango through a fresh and empowering lens.

Secure your seats for this one-night-only performance.



Real Love: Kenny & Dolly Tribute
May 7, 2026 | Georgian Theatre

Step into a world of timeless country hits with Real Love, a heartfelt tribute to Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton. Performed by award-winning artists Alan Turner and Laurie Lynn, this show captures the charm, chemistry, and iconic sound of one of music’s most beloved duos.

From nostalgic ballads to foot-stomping favourites, it’s a feel-good night filled with songs that span generations. Gather your friends, enjoy a laid-back dinner, and sing along to classics that never go out of style.

Grab your tickets and relive the magic of Kenny and Dolly.



The Lightfoot Band
May 8, 2026 | Georgian Theatre

Celebrate the enduring legacy of Gordon Lightfoot with the musicians who helped define his sound. The Lightfoot Band brings authenticity and history to the stage, performing beloved hits like Sundown and The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald alongside stories from decades on the road.

It’s more than a concert, it’s a deeply personal tribute to one of Canada’s greatest musical voices.

Experience this iconic music live - purchase your tickets today.

 

 

Hotel California – Eagles Tribute
May 9, 2026 | Georgian Theatre

For fans of the Eagles, this is as close as it gets. Hotel California delivers a pitch-perfect recreation of one of rock’s most legendary catalogues, complete with soaring harmonies and meticulous instrumentation.

With decades of touring experience, this tribute band has mastered the art of bringing classic rock to life in a way that feels both nostalgic and electrifying.

Don’t wait - tickets for this fan-favourite sell fast.



Northern Lights
Presented by King Edward Choir: May 9, 2026 | Collier Street United Church

Presented by the King Edward Choir, Northern Lights is a celebration of Canadian music and storytelling. Featuring works by legends like Leonard Cohen and Joni Mitchell, the program blends folk, contemporary choral works, and beloved classics.

This performance is heartfelt, nostalgic, and distinctly Canadian, perfect for those who appreciate the beauty of voices in harmony.

Join this celebration of Canadian music - reserve your tickets now.



Tales of Timeless Wonder
Presented by Huronia Symphony: May 10, 2026 | Collier Street United Church

Spend Mother’s Day wrapped in the sweeping sounds of the Huronia Symphony Orchestra. Tales of Timeless Wonder features powerful orchestral works, including selections from Swan Lake and the mesmerizing Scheherazade.

It’s an afternoon of imagination, storytelling, and breathtaking musical colour, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Treat Mom to brunch or an early dinner before or after this unforgettable performance.

Celebrate Mother’s Day with music - get your tickets today.



PianoFest
Presented by Barrie Concerts: May 23, 2026 | HiWay Church

PianoFest features two remarkable young pianists bringing extraordinary talent and artistry to the stage.

Megan Lo, a Glenn Gould School student on full scholarship, began piano at age five and has since trained with some of the world’s leading musicians, performing at major venues including Koerner Hall and Mazzoleni Hall. She is a prize-winning artist recognized for her expressive depth and technical brilliance.

Rowan Sawarna-Small, age 18, is a rising pianist praised for his poetic and powerful performances. A student at the Glenn Gould School on full scholarship, he has been described as captivating audiences with both sensitivity and intensity well beyond his years.

Together, they offer an inspiring evening of exceptional classical performance.

Experience world-class piano - secure your tickets now.



Anything Goes
Presented by Barrie Concert Band: May 30, 2026 | Collier Street United Church

Get ready for a musical whirlwind with Anything Goes this May. This high-energy concert is a true collection of favourites, featuring beloved pieces chosen by both the audience and musicians. From iconic film scores and popular hits to timeless concert band classics, this eclectic program offers something for everyone. It’s a celebration of the music that connects us, lifts our spirits, and brings the community together.

Wrap up your month of music. Get your tickets today.


In Barrie, May isn’t just a season, it’s a celebration. Each performance offers a new way to experience the arts, whether you’re drawn to the drama of Broadway, the intimacy of a piano recital, or the power of a full orchestra.

So step out, support local performers, and let music guide your evenings. Try a new restaurant, explore a new venue, and discover just how vibrant Barrie’s arts scene can be. Because here, every note tells a story and every night out becomes something to remember.


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