Tiny Beautiful Things

Co-Conceived by Marshall Heyman, Thomas Kail, and Nia Vardalos

Based on the New York Times bestseller by Cheryl Strayed and adapted by Winnipeg’s own Academy Award nominee Nia Vardalos (My Big Fat Greek Wedding), Tiny Beautiful Things explores Strayed’s experience as an online advice columnist. While strangers on the internet tell her their most personal secrets, hopes and struggles, Strayed weaves together stories from her own life to create a column full of light, empathy, and humanity. By turns humourous, heartrending and hopeful, Tiny Beautiful Things is a tonic for our world-weary hearts.

Winnipeg Cast: Laura Olafson as "Sugar", Arne MacPherson, Gislina Patterson, Honey Pham as "letter-writers".

“A Theatrical Hug in Turbulent Times” - Variety

"A show that aims to open our eyes to the tiny moments when  the world surprises us with care." - New York Magazine

Nia Vardalos Says: “Reading the words of Cheryl Strayed, I immediately experienced a catharsis, a vulnerability that left me raw and with a newfound clarity. 'The letters are real,’ I marveled. Writing the play was challenging and terrifying, and its ride around the globe with multiple productions has been exhilarating. I was home in February and got to visit with Ann and all at beautiful PTE; a perfect creative team and space for this cathartic and gentle play. It’s truly wonderful that Tiny Beautiful Things has now come to my hometown.”

Cheryl Strayed Says: “In an age when there is much discussion about the disconnection that comes form the Internet, the pandemic, the fallout of too much of life lived on screens, Dear Sugar has always been, quite simply, about one person writing a letter to another. In pain and courage and confusion and clarity. In love and fear and faith. Dear Sugar has always been about connecting. It has always been about believing that when we dare to tell the truth about who we are and what we want and how exactly we’re afraid or sad or lost or uncertain that transformation is possible, that light can be found, that courage and compassion can be mustered.”

Ann Says:"I have wanted to direct this play since it premiered in New York, starring Nia Vardalos. In the first few minutes, I laugh out loud, and minutes later there are streams of tears running down my cheeks. This play is a deep exploration of empathy— a much-needed balm in these divisive times."