On the chilly evening of November 17, 2023, the Bluma Appel Theatre at the St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts in Toronto came alive with the promise of a spectacular journey through time. City Builders and art enthusiasts alike gathered for an unforgettable networking night hosted by Canadian Stage board members Drew Sinclair of SvN Architects and Hugh Clark of TAS. Little did they know that the night would unfold as a celebration of artistry, history, and the indomitable human spirit.

The evening kicked off at 6:30 pm with a glamorous cocktail reception, setting the stage for what would be an enchanting night. Attendees mingled, sharing their excitement for the upcoming performance of The Lehman Trilogy. The air was abuzz with anticipation as the audience prepared to witness a theatrical masterpiece.

At 7:30 pm, the spotlight shifted to an insightful pre-show chat featuring Artistic Director Brendan Healy and the esteemed director of The Lehman Trilogy, Philip Akin. Akin, a visionary in the world of theatre, provided a unique perspective into the creation of the production, giving attendees a behind-the-scenes look at the making of this extraordinary play.

As the clock struck 8:15 pm, the audience settled into their seats, eager to be transported through time. The Lehman Trilogy, directed by Philip Akin, began its highly acclaimed performance. The production promised to be a gripping tale, weaving together the intricate story of Lehman Brothers, a financial empire that rose from humble beginnings in 1844 only to spectacularly crumble 163 years later, triggering one of the largest financial crises in history.

The play's narrative unfolded with a cast of three remarkable actors, skillfully portraying the Lehman brothers, their sons, and grandsons. The extraordinary storytelling unfolded in three parts, creating a seamless and immersive experience for the audience. Each scene was a brushstroke on the canvas of history, painting a vivid picture of the American epic that spanned generations.

The Lehman Trilogy, with its captivating storytelling and stellar performances, left an indelible mark on the audience. The highs and lows of the Lehman Brothers' journey, from dreams on a New York dockside in 1844 to the catastrophic collapse in 2008, were vividly brought to life on the stage of the Bluma Appel Theatre.

As the curtains fell, the audience erupted into applause, acknowledging the brilliance of the cast, crew, and everyone involved in bringing this epic tale to life. The night concluded with a sense of awe and reflection, as attendees left the theatre with the echoes of The Lehman Trilogy resonating in their minds.

In retrospect, the networking night at the Canadian Stage was not just an event; it was a journey through time, a celebration of resilience, and a testament to the power of art to capture the essence of human experience. The Lehman Trilogy had left its mark on Toronto, and the memories of that November evening would linger in the hearts of those fortunate enough to witness this theatrical masterpiece.