Canadian Legends, Musical Discoveries and a Little Laughter Fill November at Flato Markham Theatre

As days grow shorter and the first hints of winter arrive, November at the Flato Markham Theatre offers plenty of reasons to not hibernate yet. The 2026/27 Diamond Season continues its 41st year with an exceptional mix of Canadian musical icons, international performers, theatrical comedy, and an opportunity for audiences of all abilities to experience live music.

“November is just jammed full of incredible performers showing audiences why they are at the top of their game,” says Acting General Manager Scott Hill. “This month is night after night of excellence.”

The Diamond Season begins on Wednesday, November 4 at 8pm with the return of Michael Kaeshammer, the internationally celebrated pianist, singer and songwriter whose blend of jazz, boogie-woogie, blues and pop has made him a favourite with audiences around the world. The multiple JUNO Award nominee is known as much for his infectious enthusiasm and spontaneous performances as he is for his remarkable technical ability at the piano.

“When it comes to jazz from Canada, Michael is one of the greats,” says Hill. “What he does on the piano is magical; our audiences love him, and we’re thrilled to welcome him back.”

The following night, Thursday, November 5 at 8pm, Canadian alternative rock icon Matthew Good takes the stage with his band and a string quartet led by acclaimed cellist Kevin Fox. Good, whose career stretches back to the influential Matthew Good Band albums of the 1990s, has built a remarkable catalogue of songs combining introspective lyrics, memorable melodies and powerful rock arrangements.

“For this tour Matthew Good is offering a rare opportunity for audiences,” Hill explains. “Mixing his full band with a string quartet and presenting iconic hits from his catalogue is going to be fantastic. He’s a huge artists and we’re happy to have hm.” 

The following week brings a celebration of one of the most recognizable sounds in popular music. Brass Transit — A Tribute to Chicago performs on Friday, November 13 at 8pm. The eight-piece ensemble recreates the distinctive combination of horns, rock rhythms and soaring vocals that made Chicago one of the most successful bands of the 1970s and beyond.

Featuring beloved songs like 25 or 6 to 4, Saturday in the Park, If You Leave Me Now and Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?, the show promises a night of exceptional musicianship and familiar favourites.

“Brass Transit is awesome,” says Hill. “Yes, they are a Chicago tribute band, but they are incredible players and they truly sound like Chicago in 1975 on a great night. It’s going to be a fantastic night.”

The very next morning, Saturday, November 14 at 11am, the Theatre offers a different kind of musical experience with Adaptive Performances: Ladom Ensemble. Presented in partnership with Xenia Concerts, the performance is designed to create a welcoming and accessible environment for audiences who may experience barriers to attending traditional concerts.

Ladom Ensemble brings together musicians and influences from different cultural and musical traditions, combining piano, cello, accordion and percussion into a sound that draws on classical, Middle Eastern, Balkan and other world music traditions.

“Live performance should be something everyone has the opportunity to experience,” says Hill. “we’re proud to offer this chance for folks who need a safe space to see a world class show.”

The Diamond Season resumes after the community presentations with a return visit from one of Canada’s most recognizable musical exports. Canadian Brass performs on Friday, November 27 at 8pm, bringing more than five decades of extraordinary musicianship and irreverent humour to the Markham stage.

Founded in 1970, the internationally acclaimed brass quintet has helped redefine what audiences can expect from a classical music concert. Their repertoire ranges from Bach and other classical masters to jazz, contemporary pop and holiday favourites, all delivered with an infectious sense of fun.

“Canadian Brass is Canadian music royalty,” says Hill. “When you get a chance to get them on your stage, you take it. It’s a genuine pleasure to have them on our stage.”

The following night, Saturday, November 28 at 8pm, internationally celebrated guitarist Pavlo returns with his distinctive blend of Mediterranean-inspired music. Combining Greek, flamenco, Spanish and rumba influences, the award-winning Canadian musician has developed a sound that has taken him around the world and earned him a devoted following.

Known for his passionate performances, remarkable guitar playing and infectious rhythms, Pavlo and his band promise an evening that might make audiences forget the approaching Canadian winter.

“Pavlo has performed here a number of times,” says Hill. “He loves the audience here, we love having him here. To watch him perform is something special.”

November’s Diamond Season closes with a very different sort of Canadian performance. On Sunday, November 29 at 2pm, Marsh Marigolds: An Agricultural Thriller brings the beloved world of Persephone Township back to the stage.

Written by Dan Needles, the creator of the enormously successful Wingfield plays, and starring Rod Beattie under the direction of Doug Beattie, the production combines rural comedy, suspense, romance and a little mystery. The story returns audiences to the farming community that has delighted Canadian theatregoers for decades, offering another affectionate and often hilarious look at rural life.

“Rod Beattie is one of Canada’s great theatrical storytellers,” Hill says. “He performed on our stage for the first time in 1988, and to have him back with his newest show is a joy for us.”

As usual, November also features a strong selection of community presentations, demonstrating the Theatre’s ongoing commitment to supporting local performing arts organizations.

Markham Little Theatre returns from November 18 to 21 with Noël Coward’s Present Laughter, directed by Shelagh Carlini. The classic comedy follows flamboyant actor Garry Essendine as he attempts to manage a chaotic collection of friends, admirers and romantic complications while preparing for an overseas tour. Filled with Coward’s trademark wit, the production promises a fast-paced evening of theatrical mischief. 

Film lovers can look forward to the return of Markham at the Movies on Tuesday, November 24. This month’s film is The Choral starring Ralph Finnes. The film comes from the UK and was directed by Nicholas Hytner.

“Our community producers are incredibly important to us,” says Hill. “These organizations are creating opportunities for local artists and audiences, and we’re always proud to be a part of what they do.”

Adding even more variety to the calendar are three independently produced performances. 100 Years From Now — A Musical of Love, Family and the Great War arrives on Wednesday, November 11 at 7:30pm, Tapestry: The Carole King Songbook, starring Suzanne O Davis on November 14 at 7:30pm, and , A Very Merry Motown Christmas returns on Thursday, November 26 at 7:30pm. 

With world-class Canadian musicians, classic rock favourites, accessible performances, community theatre, international sounds and a little rural comedy, November offers something for almost every taste.

“The best of the best is onstage with us every night this month,’” says Hill. “Escape the world for a couple hours and join us.”

Tickets for all shows are available through the Flato Markham Theatre Box Office.

Photo: Brass Transit returns to Markham this November.