This quirky dinner show in Ottawa is the most Canadian thing ever

Want to treat yourself to some yummy comfort food and learn about Canada’s musical history all at the same time? Well, you do not want to miss out on Oh Canada Eh? Dinner Show!

This unique live show, which originated in Niagara Falls where it has been entertaining both Canadians and foreign tourists alike for over 25 years now, made its debut in Ottawa just under three weeks ago and is already creating quite a buzz. Ottawa Life was lucky enough to attend the special opening night and let us tell you, you are in for a sweet-as-maple-syrup treat!

The Concept

Being the longest running dinner show in Canada, Oh Canada Eh? Has very much perfected the concept. Instead of the meal being served before or after the show, you are served as the show is going on. In fact, the performers also double as your servers! This may sound strange in theory, but it totally works and creates a really cool seamless and interactive experience that is like no other.

The Show

The show is 2 hours of all things Canadian. It’s an exploration of Canada’s musical history through dance and song, so performers are in Canadian-themed costume, like red and black plaid, hockey jerseys, Mountie hats and more. It mixes just the right amount of camp, humour and performance quality to make for a show that is light hearted and casual, but also really high caliber and worth the money. Every Canadian musical legend from past and present that you can think of was incorporated into the show – parts that stand out in particular are the Paul Anka tribute section, the performance of Shania Twain’s “Man, I feel Like a Woman,” and the incorporation of Canada’s hot, young chart- toppers like Drake, Carly Rae Jepsen, and Shawn Mendes.

The Food

The food is another part of the show that will really surprise you. It is a full meal and quite tasty! About 25 minutes before the show starts, the first course of pea soup, salad and fresh bread is served. An hour into the show, the main course of roast beef, battered haddock, roasted chicken, roasted potatoes and a veggie medley arrives. Everything is served on platters, so you get to interact with others at your table in a very family-like way as you pass around the food. At the tail end of the show, a delicious chocolate and maple cake is served alongside complimentary tea and coffee. Also, if you want to make the night extra special, wine, beer, cocktails and soda are available to purchase.

This show is perfect for all ages, so make it a date night or a full family affair! We also highly recommend it as an outing if you have friends or family visiting from abroad. With multiple ticket levels, special child and teen pricing, and even a show-only option if you don’t want the dinner, the show is very accessible price-wise.

Oh Canada Eh? Ottawa runs 6 nights a week until Sept. 19, 2019. The theatre is located in Clark Hall in the RA Centre on Riverside Drive. For more info and to buy tickets, check out the Oh Canada Eh? Ottawa website.