Description
This Is Our Youth – A Railtown Actors Studio Lab Production
Location: 1555 West 7th Avenue, Vancouver, BC
Dates: November 12–16, 2025
Ages: 13+
Presented By: Railtown Actors Studio Lab
Website: This Is Our Youth – Get Tickets
Event Overview
The acclaimed coming-of-age drama “This Is Our Youth” by Kenneth Lonergan comes to Vancouver for a limited run at Railtown Actors Studio Lab, directed by John Murphy. Set in 1982 New York City, the play follows three privileged yet lost young adults—Dennis, Warren, and Jessica—over the course of one unforgettable night.
Blending sharp humour with emotional depth, the story explores youth, identity, love, and the chaos of finding direction in early adulthood. With stolen money, reckless ambition, and restless energy, This Is Our Youth remains as relevant today as it was when it premiered, offering an unfiltered look at the confusion and connection that define a generation.
Performance Schedule & Tickets
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November 12 – First Preview: 7:30 PM | CA$27.50 (incl. fees)
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November 13 – Opening Night: 7:30 PM | CA$33 (incl. fees)
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November 14 – Evening Show: 7:30 PM | CA$33 (incl. fees)
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November 15 – Matinee: 2:00 PM | CA$33 (incl. fees)
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November 15 – Evening Show: 7:30 PM | CA$33 (incl. fees)
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November 16 – Final Matinee: 2:00 PM | CA$33 (incl. fees)
Creative Team
Director – John Murphy
A celebrated Canadian-Irish director, writer, and actor, John Murphy brings decades of theatrical experience to this production. His credits include directing over 30 plays for the Arts Club, Bard on the Beach, and Playwrights Theatre Centre, among others. He has been nominated for multiple Jessie Awards and Leo Awards, and is known for his dynamic storytelling and ability to draw emotional truth from actors.
Cast
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Dennis Ziegler – Alexander J. Skinner
Making his stage debut, Alexander brings raw intensity and restless energy to the role of Dennis. With credits across Netflix, AMC, and The History Channel, Skinner returns to live theatre to explore a character navigating privilege and purpose. -
Warren Straub – Oliver Atkins
A rising screen talent, Oliver Atkins portrays Warren—a vulnerable and complex young man caught between rebellion and longing. His nuanced approach captures the heart of Lonergan’s writing. -
Jessica Goldman – Shanti Harris
Vancouver-based actor and writer Shanti Harris (they/them) brings authenticity and depth to Jessica, infusing the role with curiosity, warmth, and emotional honesty.
Production Partner: Railtown Actors Studio Lab
Founded by John Cassini, the Railtown Actors Studio Lab is a creative hub for actors and emerging storytellers to develop projects, explore artistic boundaries, and create independently produced theatre. The Lab supports the next generation of performers through mentorship, workshops, and collaborative production opportunities.
About the Play
This Is Our Youth first premiered in 1996 and has been hailed as one of the defining stage works about Generation X. Written by Academy Award–nominated screenwriter Kenneth Lonergan (Manchester by the Sea, You Can Count on Me), the play has been staged internationally and praised for its raw, realistic portrayal of friendship, privilege, and self-discovery.
Why You Should Attend
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Experience one of the most acclaimed coming-of-age plays of the last three decades
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See three emerging Vancouver actors in a powerful, intimate performance
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Support independent, artist-led theatre in Vancouver
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Engage with a story that resonates across generations
Discover More Live Theatre in Vancouver
Explore upcoming stage productions, performances, and cultural events at Vancouver Page – Discover Local Events.