The legendary music of Canada’s most beloved and influential rock bands, The Tragically Hip, will come to life in a brand-new musical from producers David and Hannah Mirvish and Michael Rubinoff. With songs from the iconic catalogue of The Tragically Hip and a book by Brian Hill and Ahmed Moneka, It’s a Good Life If You Don’t Weaken tells the story of a family in turmoil facing the revelation of long-guarded secrets, and the resilience they find through a group of friends in the micro-mosaic of Toronto’s Kensington Market.
It’s a Good Life If You Don’t Weaken will immerse audiences in a powerful original story integrated with The Tragically Hip’s timeless hits, capturing the raw energy, heartfelt lyrics, and unmistakable spirit that have made them an essential part of Canada’s musical identity.
It’s a Good Life If You Don’t Weaken will have its world premiere in 2026 at Theatre Aquarius in Hamilton, Ontario, under the leadership of Artistic Director Mary Francis Moore, in partnership with Thousand Islands Playhouse, led by Managing Artistic Director Brett Christopher. The show will be further developed in partnership with The Creative School Chrysalis at Toronto Metropolitan University. Full details will be announced at a later date.
“Some of the country’s best theatre makers have come together to create a show that honours our music,” said The Tragically Hip. “It’s exciting to see our songs interpreted in a new way that will continue to connect audiences, while supporting a compelling story for the theatrical stage.”
“The Tragically Hip are a foundational part of Canadian culture and music, to be able to support a musical using their music and telling a wonderfully Canadian story is such an exciting opportunity,” said David and Hannah Mirvish.
“The Tragically Hip’s music has had a huge impact on me and millions of other lives, transcending generations and people from all walks of life,” said Rubinoff. “This musical is an opportunity to not only honour the band’s legacy but also celebrate their glorious music. It is a dream project.”
Casting will begin next month with an open casting call on Sunday, March 9, 2025 at The Creative School Chrysalis at Toronto Metropolitan University, 43 Gerrard Street East, Toronto, sign in from 9AM – 1PM. Please note that CAEA members will be seen first. More information about casting is available at theatreaquarius.org/auditions-submission.com
From their hometown of Kingston, ON, Rob Baker, Gord Downie, Johnny Fay, Paul Langlois and Gord Sinclair skyrocketed to fame as The Tragically Hip with their signature blend of rock anthems and poetic lyricism. Over their storied career, the band released 14 studio albums, 9 of which hit #1 in Canada, won 17 Juno Awards, and were inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame and received a star on Canada’s Walk Of Fame. Their 2016 cross-Canada tour, undertaken after Downie’s terminal cancer diagnosis, was a cultural phenomenon watched by millions. On September 5, 2024, celebrating their 40th anniversary, The Tragically Hip: No Dress Rehearsal, a definitive four-part documentary series about the band, premiered at The Toronto International Film Festival, winning the People’s Choice Award. The documentary is currently streaming on Amazon Prime worldwide.
