Countries Shaped Like Stars

Created by Emily Pearlman & Nicolas Di Gaetano
February 17 - 28, 2026
Backstage Theatre

Part Storytelling, part concert, Counties Shaped Like Stars is a whimsical love story spun from everyday magic and the sounds of spoons, whirly-winds, and a mandolin. Gwendolyn Magnificent and Bartholomew Spectacular live on neighbouring peninsulas in a world where words grow on trees and anticipation hums in the air. Connected by string, sound, and the spaces in between, this is a love story that will leave you breathless.

Born on the Fringe Festival circuit, Countries Shaped Like Stars is a shining example of how remarkable theatre can begin at Festivals like the Fringe. From 2009-2022, audiences fell in love with this magical story at various Festivals across Canada where Artists take bold chances and create extraordinary things.

Winner of the Staff Choice Award at the Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival in 2013, and recipient of the Prix Rideau Award for Outstanding Fringe Production and Outstanding New Work, this story invites the audience into a dreamlike fable about love, longing, and the beauty of trying to stay connected, even when you are worlds apart.

Accessible Performance Information:

Wed February 25: CART Captioned and Relaxed Performance
Thu February 26: CART Captioned Performance

Approximate Run Time: 60 minutes (no intermission)

CAST

Dayna Lea Hoffmann - Gwendolyn Magnificent
Michael Watt – Bartholomew Spectacular

CREATIVE TEAM

Created by - Emily Pearlman & Nicolas Di Gaetano
Director – Murray Utas
Assistant Director – Nicole Maloney
Production Designer - Even Gilchrist
Sound & Lighting Operator / Resident Technician - Jadera (Jadey) Capaldo

• Storytelling
• $26.00 inc $4.00 fee
• 17-February 28, 2026
• 60 minutes
• Fringe Theatre Arts Barns
• Backstage Theatre
• 14A
• 
  Show Contains: sudden sounds, surprising moments of appearing and disappearing, loud noise, strobe lights, and haze.