Variety rules this spring at Flato Markham Theatre
As winter gives way to longer days and the promise of spring, March at the Flato Markham Theatre offers a lineup that feels expansive, energetic, and intentionally varied. The 2025/26 Diamond Season continues with performances that range from iconic popular music and world-class jazz to family favourites and bold contemporary dance.
“It’s a great time to be at the theatre,” says Acting General Manager Scott Hill. “We have such a wide variety of incredible talent and activity this month. It’s just very exciting.”
The Diamond Season begins on March 6 with The 3 Impersonators, a fast-paced tribute show built around three master vocalists and impressionists, Martin Dube, Steeve Diamond, and Sylvie Fortin, channelling more than 100 of the most recognizable voices in popular music history. Blending spot-on vocal impressions with live band arrangements and light storytelling, the performance celebrates classic artists while showcasing the performers’ technical skill and musicality.
“We’ve had a great history with legendary impersonators on our stage,” says Hill. “This night is no different. It’s 90 minutes of pure joy.”
On March 7, the curtain rises on What You Won’t Do For Love, a distinctive theatrical work from Toronto’s Why Not Theatre featuring environmental icon Dr. David Suzuki alongside his partner Dr. Tara Cullis. Blending live performance, storytelling, and multimedia, the piece reflects on their decades-long marriage and shared life as climate activists. Praised as intimate, thoughtful, and quietly powerful, the production invites audiences to consider what we are willing to do to protect what we truly care about.
“Suzuki is one of the most respected and recognizable Canadians there is, full stop,” says Hill. “We’re excited to have his first foray into live theatre on our stage, as well as a question and answer after the performance.”
On March 8, the theatre welcomes one of Canada’s most respected choral ensembles. The Nathaniel Dett Chorale presents Walk Together, Children, a moving program rooted in the tradition of Black spirituals but spanning classical, gospel, and blues music. Known internationally for its artistic excellence and cultural leadership, the Chorale brings depth, history, and emotional resonance to the stage through music that speaks to resilience, faith, and collective strength.
“It’s going to be an incredible show and we’re excited to have them for a matinee,” Hill notes. “This means that folks who want or need an early night get come and share in this fantastic performance.”
Jazz takes centre stage on March 13 with Jazz at Lincoln Center Presents: Great American Crooners. Featuring singers Robbie Lee, Shenel Johns, and Benny Benack III, from one of the world’s most prestigious jazz institutions, the concert celebrates the singers and songs that shaped the Great American Songbook. Expect timeless standards like I’ve Got You Under My Skin, Misty, I Only Have Eyes For You, and Moon River, along with smooth phrasing, and the kind of musicianship that comes from artists performing at the highest international level.
“Lincoln Center is one of the premiere arts organizations on earth,” says Hill. ‘To have artists hand-picked by them on our stage is truly a blessing for us and for the audience.”
Families are invited back to the theatre on March 15 with Fireside Munsch, performing at 10:30 am and 1:30 pm. Based on the beloved stories of Canadian author Robert Munsch, the show brings his famously funny and heartfelt tales to life through storytelling, physical theatre, and audience interaction. Designed for younger audiences and their caregivers, Fireside Munsch has become a favourite introduction to live theatre.
“This show is a great, very affordable, chance to introduce a young person to the joy of theatre,” Hill says. “It’s not to be missed.”
On March 21, the Mike Stern Band arrives, led by the legendary guitarist whose career spans decades and includes work with Miles Davis, Jaco Pastorius, and the Brecker Brothers. Known for his fiery playing and deep musicality, Stern brings jazz fusion to life with a band, including legendary drummer Dennis Chambers, that matches his virtuosity and energy.
“It’s great to welcome back this legend to Markham,” Hill explains. “His ability and talent on his instrument is literally world-renowned. Whether you love jazz, love guitar, or just love music, this show is for you.”
On April 1, Compagnie de la Citadelle presents Kudelka/Lemieux Mix. The program features works by two influential Canadian choreographers, blending powerful movement with striking visual design. Known for pushing the boundaries of modern dance, the company offers an evening that is both physically compelling and intellectually engaging.
“This is one of our $40 shows and it features original choreography from a Canadian dance icon in Kudelka,” says Hill. “What a great opportunity for young dancers or fans of dance.”
Rounding out the month is a community presentation from Markham at the Movies, which returns on March 31 with The Mother and the Bear. The screening continues the series’ focus on international and art-house cinema, offering audiences a thoughtful film experience in a theatrical setting.
“It’s wonderful that they are able to bring these films for a showing,” says Hill. “There’s quite a community growing here..”
Young people from the community get extra focus this month as the Flato Markham Theatre March Break program welcomes many young people into the theatre to spend their break learning about professional theatre and refining their own performance skills.
“Having this much activity in the building is inspiring for us too,” says Hill. “I hope everyone can come join in for a night out.”
With world-class jazz, powerful choral music, family programming, community opportunities, contemporary dance, and iconic popular music all sharing the stage, March at the Flato Markham Theatre offers an extraordinary variety—and plenty of reasons to welcome the changing season with a night out.
For more information, visit markhamtheatre.ca.
Photo: Family fun is set for March 15 with Fireside Munsch. Based on the beloved stories of Canadian author Robert Munsch, the show brings his famously funny and heartfelt tales to life through storytelling, physical theatre, and audience interaction.