Jamie and Abby have their whole lives ahead of them. Deeply in love and perfectly in sync, the young couple shares a vision for the future — settling down, raising a family, and growing old together. But one unexpected night holds the power to alter the course of everything they imagined.
It’s a story that resonates with everyone — whether happily partnered, recently heartbroken, or navigating life solo. At its heart lies the question we all ponder: What if? And that question takes center stage in Sean Grennan’s romantic comedy Now and Then, currently on at Ottawa Little Theatre (OLT) until Saturday, April 19.
Fairy tales may rely on crystal balls, but what if you were actually given a glimpse into your own future — and didn’t like what you saw?
Directed with clarity and heart by OLT award-winner Brian Cano, the production invites audiences into a cozy neighbourhood bar, where Jamie (Matt Walker), an aspiring musician, is closing up for the night. Jamie is an earnest, what-you-see-is-what-you-get kind of guy. His girlfriend, Abby (Shae Javala), drops by after finishing her late-night shift at the local IHOP. Together, they feel remarkably real — their chemistry onstage is warm and believable, like a couple you know (or maybe are).
Then, a mysterious stranger (Corey Pelow) appears, asking to stay for a drink well after closing time. He offers Jamie a generous sum of money in exchange. Jamie, strapped for cash and always the good guy, agrees. But something about the man feels… off. Not quite sinister, but strange enough to set the audience on edge.
The final character to enter the scene is a woman (Denise Shannon), whose chemistry with the stranger is immediately intriguing and emotionally rich. But no spoilers here — you’ll have to see it for yourself to uncover the connection.
Libid Zyla Harder’s set design is a standout. The bar feels intimate and lived-in, with just the right urban vibe. Lighting and sound design are top-notch, adding polish to an already solid production. For audience members who are hard of hearing, OLT offers real-time closed captioning on smartphones — just scan the QR code in the lobby.
The play gently poses the big questions: What if you had a second chance? Would you make the same choices? Would you dare to change direction? Or would regret follow you?
Now and Then is full of heart and humour — a thought-provoking, feel-good night at the theatre. Bonus: OLT has some of the most affordable drinks in town. So grab a glass of Chardonnay, and let yourself be transported to 1981 for a screen-free evening of laughs, love, and life’s biggest questions.
Don’t miss Now and Then, playing Wednesday to Saturday at Ottawa Little Theatre until April 19.
Get your tickets at ottawalittletheatre.com or by calling 613-233-8948.
Photos by: Maria Vartanova
