Yaga is a darkly suspenseful tale that will have audiences on the edge of their seats. With its blend of mystery, folklore, and psychological drama, Yaga promises to be an unforgettable theatrical experience. Part thriller, part comedy, part nightmare fairy-tale, this witty play leads us into an unforgettable world of trickery and revenge– just in time for Halloween! 

Written by Canadian playwright Kat Sandler, Yaga is a contemporary reimagining of the infamous Slavic folk tale of Baba Yaga, the witch known for her wisdom, wickedness, and intrigue. But in Sandler’s version, the lines between predator and prey, truth and myth, are cunningly blurred. In a small town where the disappearance of a young man sparks an investigation, three women are drawn into a web of secrets, lies, and dark magic. As the mystery unfolds, the audience is taken on a gripping journey where old legends meet modern crime, creating an eerie, provocative, and thought-provoking atmosphere. Yaga is not only a whodunit but also a deeper exploration of power, gender, and the narratives that shape our perceptions of morality.

“Yaga is the perfect show for Halloween – a mix of suspense, wit, and supernatural elements that will captivate and challenge our audience,” said Barbara Tomasic, Executive Artistic Director at Gateway Theatre. “Starring some of Vancouver’s best actors, they deliver performances that promise chilling intensity and unexpected humor.”

Yaga is brought to life under the direction of Roy Surette, known for his innovative approach to storytelling and recipient of several Jessie Awards. Jessie Award winning Genevieve Fleming and Aidan Correia reprise their roles as a small-town sheriff and private eye who collaborate to find a killer and Colleen Wheeler, multiple Jessie Award winner, returns as Katherine Yazov, the professor who’s seductive intelligence and shadowy past lands her at the top of the suspect list.