PSFT: Simon Joynes
The Port Stanley Festival Theatre is opening its 2025 summer season with a show that’s equal parts hilarious, heartwarming and deeply personal.
Dump Guys, running May 21 to 31, is the story of two estranged best friends who reunite under unexpected circumstances — and end up taking out more than just the trash.
That was guest director Murray Furrow, who has a long history with the show, and with the man who wrote it.
Dump Guys was penned by the late Simon Joynes, the longtime artistic director of Port Stanley Festival Theatre, specifically for himself and Furrow — real-life best friends.
This new production — the first to feature a cast that doesn’t include Joynes or Furrow — stars Mark McGrinder, familiar to Port Stanley audiences, and newcomer John Fray. Furrow says both bring fresh perspectives to the characters, allowing the show to stand on its own while still honouring its roots.
Despite the personal weight of the project, Furrow says he approached it the same way he would any other directing job.
The result, Furrow says, is a sharp, funny, and surprisingly touching experience.
“It’s riotously funny. But Simon and I both loved theatre that could make an audience laugh and then tug at the heartstrings,” he said. “This show does that. These are real guys — guys you’ll recognize. Friends, brothers, sons. The hope is the audience sees themselves up there.”
The show is also part of a milestone season for Artistic Director Liz Gilroy, her first full solo program at the helm. Furrow said launching the season with Dump Guys is a fitting tribute to both Gilroy’s leadership and Joynes’ legacy.
In addition to the evening and matinee performances, the theatre is introducing Talk Back Tuesdays this year, with a post-show discussion following the May 27th matinee. Furrow is excited to hear what audiences are curious about.
In the end, Dump Guys offers something for everyone — whether you’re there for the laughs, the nostalgia, or a deeper emotional journey.
“If you love theatre, you’re going to love this show,” said Furrow. “It’s funny. It’s moving. It’s real. And it’s a beautiful way to start a season.”
Tickets for Dump Guys and the entire 2025 Summer Season are available at psft.ca or through the box office at 519-782-4353.
Written by: K. Freeman
