EXCESS

A Cuban American Canadian Comedy about SEX! SHOPPING! and WAR!

By E. Kent Stetson
Directed by Wade Lynch

A sharp, outrageous, and surprisingly heartfelt new comedy from acclaimed playwright E. Kent Stetson.

Set against the chaos of economic collapse, political tension, consumer obsession, and cultural confusion, EXCESS follows a wildly entertaining collision of Cuban, American, and Canadian lives as they navigate love, identity, privilege, sex, money… and survival.

Early drafts arose in response to American anger when Canada refused to participate in the illegal US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003. "First Canada," the Prime Minister said, "Then who is next?" Who indeed? Time passed. EXCESS languished in the bottom drawer. The unspoken threat became urgent in 2025 when  the two-time American president told Canadians, "I will break you so I can take you." After a decade of stop and start, the real writing of EXCESS began that day. In 2026, born of anger and a sense of betrayal, EXCESS finally found its feet and took its final shape: Satirical Revenge Comedy. EXCESS is bold, funny, provocative, and deeply human. The play feels startlingly relevant today - particularly in its examination of Canadian, American, and Cuban relations, power, privilege, and cultural identity. Plus, it's a hoot!

This special public reading features an outstanding cast of stage and screen performers and is presented as part of an industry showcase for invited producers, artistic directors, and guests.

Starring:
Nehassaiu deGannes
Quinn Dooly
Paul Hopkins
Jacob James
Charlotte Moore


Presented by:
The Actor Atelier

EVENT DETAILS

Date: Monday, June 8, 2026
Location: Church of the Holy Saviour Parish Hall
33 Allen St. E., Waterloo, Ontario

Doors Open: 2:30 PM
Reading Begins: 3:00 PM (over ~5:30)

ABOUT THE PLAYWRIGHT

E. Kent Stetson is one of Canada’s most celebrated playwrights, a Governor General’s Literary Award Laureate and Member of the Order of Canada whose work has been produced internationally.

PLEASE NOTE

This is a staged public reading of a new work in development.
Some adult themes and language. Recommended for mature audiences.

Tickets are limited.
Intimate venue. Early booking recommended.