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PREVIEW | Why Not Theatre Presents David Suzuki & Tara Cullis In What You Won’t Do For Love

David Suzuki and Tarris Cullis in the Why Not Theatre Production of What You Won’t Do For Love (Photo courtesy of Why Not Theatre)
David Suzuki and Tarris Cullis in the Why Not Theatre Production of What You Won’t Do For Love (Photo courtesy of Why Not Theatre)

Why Not Theatre presents What You Won’t Do For Love, starring David Suzuki (yes, that David Suzuki) and Tarris Cullis. The Canadian play explores love, tenacity, courage, and climate activism, and it’s launching a 15-city tour throughout Ontario.

The play, an intimate story charged with a sense of urgency, was inspired by the true life and love stories of Suzuki and Cullis, both climate activists. The tour launches in Sudbury on February 18, and winds up in Ottawa on March 25.

The Play: What You Won’t Do For Love

“David’s life’s work has been about getting the world to fall in love with nature. We saw it first-hand throughout our time with him; we saw how his love for the planet is as deeply felt as his love for his family, grandchildren, and, most of all, Tara. It is a privilege to be in the presence of a love like that, and we wanted to share it with the world through our play. David’s love radiates still, and is the force we need desperately to continue his life’s work; to love this planet and to see ourselves in a reciprocal relationship with Earth, not just to take what we need, but also to give back,” says Ravi Jain, Co-Artistic Director, Why Not Theatre, and Director of What You Won’t Do For Love in a statement.

“We’re honoured to share this story with Ontarians far and wide. We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to be celebrating David’s 90th birthday on tour, and to celebrate Tara, who you will also fall in love with!”

The theatrical work offers a rare introduction to a couple who have been partners in life and activism for 50 years. It’s honest and warmly human as well as thought provoking.

The production blends storytelling, live performance, and documentary film. David and Tara share stories, insights, and funny moments in a celebration of their love for each other, along with their love for the planet — and how love can be a spur for change.

Change begins with connection — that’s the essential message.

What You Won’t Do For Love: Ontario Tour

What You Won’t Do For Love received its world premiere at Luminato Festival in Toronto in June 2022, produced by Why Not Theatre. The play was originally commissioned and produced with the support of TO Live and Soulpepper Theatre.

Prior to its premiere, it was workshopped in Vancouver, and was streamed in 2021 during the COVID pandemic. Since the world premiere at Luminato, it has been performed in limited engagements in Toronto and Vancouver.

The Ontario tour is a Why Not Theatre Production. Production credits:

The Tour Schedule

Each 90-minute performance is followed by a 20-minute Talk Back with members of the company.

Find tickets and details [HERE].

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