East Van Panto: Hercules

East Van’s wackiest, joyfully subversive, and family-friendly tradition returns for its 14th year! The Cultch is excited to present Theatre Replacement’s East Van Panto: Hercules at the York Theatre from Wednesday, November 18, 2026 to Sunday, January 10, 2027.

Deep under the streets of Vancouver, Hades — God of the No-Fun-Derworld — is digging his way to power with his newest megaproject: the Arbutus Subway System — also known as the A.S.S. Expansion! Wanting to be adored by humankind and determined to squash protests from woke East Van, Hades will stop at nothing to claim the city as his own.

Standing in his way is his nephew and reluctant hero, Hercules. Raised by Hera — Goddess of East Van, local activist and undisputed ruler of Science World — Hercules could save the day… if he weren’t too busy tackling his Labours while chiselling away at his own statuesque physique! When Hades schemes to seize Science World and turn it into a gleaming shrine to outdated masculinity, Herc is put to the ultimate test. Can he overcome his personal trials before Hades flexes his way to total domination?