A Tonic for Desperate Times
2020-2021 Cycle
Emerging from a global state of isolation and uncertainty, Gargantua presents a vital exploration of hope: A Tonic for Desperate Times. This world premiere, two years in the making, investigates our instinct for optimism, and the surprising places hope can be found — in the fractal patterns of nature, the swing of a pendulum, the murmuration of starlings in flight. Merging dynamic physical movement with sound and video installations, this live and in-person performance is at the forefront of Toronto’s return to theatres.
Premiering in the heart of Toronto’s vibrant west end at Historic St. Anne’s Parish Hall, A Tonic for Desperate Times is a communal experience of resilience and courage. A balm for injured souls.
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Development History
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L-R – Nabil Traboulsi, Alexandra Lainfiesta, Michael Gordon Spence, Sierra Haynes, Heather Marie AnnisCostume Design by A.W. NADINE GRANTLighting & Media Design by LAIRD MACDONALDSet Design by MICHAEL GORDON SPENCEPhoto by Michael Cooper
L-R Heather Marie Annis, Michael Gordon Spence Costume Design by A.W. NADINE GRANT Lighting & Media Design by LAIRD MACDONALD Set Design by MICHAEL GORDON SPENCE Photo by Michael Cooper
Michael Gordon Spence Costume Design by A.W. NADINE GRANT Lighting & Media Design by LAIRD MACDONALD Set Design by MICHAEL GORDON SPENCE Photo by Michael Cooper
L-R – Sierra Haynes, Nabil Traboulsi, Alexandra Lainfiesta, Michael Gordon Spence, Heather Marie Annis Costume Design by A.W. NADINE GRANT Lighting & Media Design by LAIRD MACDONALD Set Design by MICHAEL GORDON SPENCE Photo by Michael Cooper
Michael Gordon Spence Costume Design by A.W. NADINE GRANT Lighting & Media Design by LAIRD MACDONALD Set Design by MICHAEL GORDON SPENCE Photo by Michael Cooper
L-R – Alexandra Lainfiesta, Nabil Traboulsi, Heather Marie Annis, Michael Gordon Spence, Costume Design by A.W. NADINE GRANT Lighting & Media Design by LAIRD MACDONALD Set Design by MICHAEL GORDON SPENCE Photo by Michael Cooper
Lighting & Media Design by LAIRD MACDONALD Set Design by MICHAEL GORDON SPENCE Photo by Michael Cooper









