For 60 years, Theatre New Brunswick has focused on bringing local stories to stages across the province. Now, the company is preparing for its first international performance. In March 2027, TNB will take its hit historical drama Bluebirds to the United Kingdom. According to CBC Arts, this marks a massive milestone for the regional theatre company.

The Story Behind Bluebirds

The play transports audiences to France in 1918, near the front lines of the First World War. It follows three Canadian nurses, historically nicknamed Bluebirds for their fully enlisted army status. TNB artistic director Natasha MacLellan says these women were ahead of their time. While the war brought horrors, it also offered these nurses a rare chance for personal liberation.

“They kind of found themselves,” MacLellan says. “They had agency. They had power. They were earning money. They were important.”

The 90 minute production requires immense stamina from the cast. Actor Mélanie LeBlanc, who plays the nurse Bab, notes there are no exits during the entire runtime. The actors stay in constant motion, mirroring the grueling reality of wartime nursing.

A Milestone for New Brunswick Theatre

Taking a regional production across the Atlantic is a rare feat. MacLellan notes that an international invitation validates decades of work promoting Atlantic Canadian stories. LeBlanc feels the UK setting brings the story closer to its roots, as London sits close to the French town where the play takes place.

“Taking Bluebirds to London isn’t just like adding a stop,” LeBlanc says. “It’s like this completely different scale of ambition for this regional company. And it’s pretty exciting to be part of that.”

The play will run at London’s Finborough Theatre.

Catch the Show Locally

You do not need to book a flight to London to see the production. Before the cast heads to the UK in 2027, TNB will stage Bluebirds right here in the Maritimes. The company plans to bring the show to Fredericton, New Glasgow, Annapolis Royal, and Halifax.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the play Bluebirds about?

Bluebirds follows the daily lives of three fully enlisted Canadian army nurses stationed near the front lines in France during the First World War.

When is Theatre New Brunswick going to the UK?

The company will perform Bluebirds at London’s Finborough Theatre in March 2027.

Can I see the play in the Maritimes?

Yes. TNB will stage performances in Fredericton, New Glasgow, Annapolis Royal, and Halifax before the UK trip.