Sidestream Festival 2025
A new festival of bold and innovative performances and works-in-progress coming August 6-9 at The Kiwanis Theatre in Chatham, Ontario
August 6 to 9, 2025
Theatre Gargantua’s Sidestream Cycles are a dynamic incubator for bold, artist-driven projects that push boundaries and ignite new possibilities in the world of theatre. This creative program gives artists the freedom and support to stretch their imaginations and bring fresh, ground-breaking works to life.
Sidestream: A Festival of New Works takes that innovation to the next level. Expanding on the success of our Sidestream Cycles, this year’s festival gives you a front-row seat to experience theatre in the making. From the raw energy of a work’s first public reading to pieces that have already dazzled international stages, Chatham will become a launchpad for contemporary Canadian theatre. And here’s where it gets exciting: you are part of the creative process. Your feedback and reactions will directly shape the future of these works.
Whether you join us for a single unforgettable night or dive into the full festival experience, you’ll be immersed in the thrilling variety and bold vision of our artists. Back and bigger than ever, Sidestream offers something for everyone no matter your age or interest. We can’t wait to share these electrifying new works with you!
PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE
Kiwanis Theatre - 75 William St North
wed, August 6th
fri, August 8th
*Tickets to Friday Night’s Performance (individual and festival pass) give free entry into CK Pride’s kickoff dance at Jazz Bah
FESTIVAL PATIO SCHEDULE
The Garden - 193 King St West
10:00 Festival Patio with live music by Mike Houston
10:00 Festival Patio with live music by Julie Ross
10:00 Festival Patio with live music by Philip Jacobs
10:00 Festival Patio with live music by Qu
*please note that the start time for the second performance of the night might vary depending on the time the first performance ends. There will always be a 15 minute intermission. Your ticket includes admission to both performances of the night.
Ticket Information
Daily Performances Regular – $33 Daily Performances Senior/Student/Arts Worker – $22 Festival Pass – $80
PERFORMANCES
Festival Patio – The Garden on King
Would you like to grab a drink or have a bite to eat once the shows are over? Well, head on to our Sidestream Patio right after at The Garden on King, where you will be able to enjoy an evening with a stunning view on their patio! The Garden sits along the Thames River and offers a variety of food and drink options that has something for everyone. They are known for their locally sourced ingredients which ensures that meals are always fresh and prepared to order.
The address of the restaurant is 193 King Street West Chatham Ontario – just a short picturesque walk from the theatre which takes you through McGregor Creek and Tecumseh Park!
We hope to see you on the patio with us!
Special Guest Discount
Maple City Bids is Theatre Gargantua’s festival auction, running alongside the Sidestream Festival in Chatham — and it’s all about supporting bold, innovative theatre in smaller cities like Chatham and beyond.
With amazing items from across Ontario — from our home in Toronto to our home-away-from-home in Chatham — there’s something for everyone.
Think: Toronto Theatre Packages, Shaw Festival tickets, Bird Kingdom adventure, Niagara Parks Passes, gift-baskets from Turns and Tales , a fun-bundle from Collective Arts and many many more!
Every bid helps Theatre Gargantua continue creating dynamic, boundary-pushing work and bring it to new communities.
Discover Chatham
Joining us from out of town? Want to know more about Chatham? Check out our page to find location, more accommodation and things to do in Chatham while you’re at the Sidestream Festival!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the parking like? Are there any deals on tickets? What can I expect from my evening performance? We have all of that covered in this FAQ page.
Click here to read all the FAQ about the Sidestream Festival
CONTACT US
If you have any questions or concerns about the festival specifically, please email us at tickets@theatregargantua.ca
One of our producers will be in touch with you as soon as possible!
