Presented by Thousand Islands Playhouse

It's a Good Life If You Don't Weaken

A new musical with songs by: The Tragically Hip
In association with: Theatre Aquarius
Book by: Ahmed Moneka & Jesse LaVercombe
Directed by: Mary Francis Moore
Orchestrations and Music Supervision by: Bob Foster
Choreography by: Marc Kimelman
Produced by permission of: David and Hannah Mirvish and Michael Rubinoff

It’s a Good Life If You Don’t Weaken immerses audiences in a powerful original story set to the timeless music of The Tragically Hip, capturing the raw energy, heartfelt lyrics, and unmistakable spirit that have become central to Canada’s musical identity.

Set in 2002, Waleed, an exiled journalist, arrives in Canada and unexpectedly falls for Kate, the owner of a local music store. Their connection is immediate and undeniable. But when circumstances change, they are forced to confront duty, uncertainty, and what truly matters – and where they each belong.

Featuring iconic songs by The Tragically Hip, including “Bobcaygeon“, “Ahead by a Century“, “New Orleans Is Sinking“, “Wheat Kings“, “Grace, Too“, “Blow at High Dough” and “Courage”.

How to Buy Tickets

It’s a Good Life If You Don’t Weaken is a special presentation by Thousand Islands Playhouse, taking place at Kingston Grand Theatre.

Ticket purchasing takes place through Kingston Grand Theatre.

Run Dates:

October 22 – November 8, 2026

Opening Night:

October 23, 2026

The Playhouse has been developing this project over the last two years with our friends at Theatre Aquarius, alongside David and Hannah Mirvish, Michael Rubinoff (Originating Producer of Come From Away), and Canada’s most iconic band, The Tragically Hip.

It’s a Good Life If You Don’t Weaken was developed with support from the National Arts Centre’s National Creation Fund and originally workshopped at The Creative School Chrysalis at Toronto Metropolitan University.

Creative Team

Ahmed Moneka

Playwright

Jesse LaVercombe

Playwright

Mary Francis Moore

Director

Bob Foster

Orchestrations & Music Supervision

Marc Kimelman

Choreographer

FAQs

How do I get on the list for early access?

Our 2026 Season Subscribers and Patron Members are automatically on the list for early access. We will email you on Tuesday morning, prior to early access opening up with steps and links. Early access begins Tuesday, March 24, at 10:00 am EDT.

Please note: In addition to being a Subscriber and Patron, you must be opted-in to our emails to receive the access code. If you are unsure if you have opted-in, call the box office (613) 382-7020 before March 23.

Can this be a part of the plays I choose in my subscription?

It’s a Good Life If You Don’t Weaken is a special presentation and not part of our 2026 Season or subscription packages. Tickets must be purchased separately.

Does my Patron Member rate apply to this play?

It’s a Good Life If You Don’t Weaken is a special presentation and not part of our 2026 Season. For questions regarding your Patron Membership, contact Jeremy Settle at [email protected] or (613) 382-7086 ext 106

I need to exchange my tickets. Who do I talk to?

Please contact the Kingston Grand Theatre with any questions about tickets you have purchased for It’s a Good Life If You Don’t Weaken.
For our 2026 Season shows, you can contact our box office.

What does "special presentation / presented by" mean? Is this a Playhouse show?

Yes, this is a Playhouse show just like the shows you see on our stages in Gananoque. We’ve been developing this project over the last two years with our friends at Theatre Aquarius. Theatre Aquarius is presenting the show in April and the Playhouse is presenting the show in October.

Why is the show at the Kingston Grand Theatre?

We needed more space! Come From Away will be playing in the Springer Theatre and the Kingston Grand Theatre has 700+ seats which allows us to bring the show to as many of our audience members as possible.