Winners and Losers

by James Long and Marcus Youssef
Adapted by Valerie Planche, Makambe K. Simamba and Jenna Rodgers
Presented in association with Swallow-a-Bicycle Theatre and Arts Commons Presents

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Winners and Losers is one part game, one part conversation that leans into our universally flawed human logic, and the desire to win at all costs. Valerie Planche and Makambe K. Simamba, two powerhouse performers at different stages of life and careers, debate whether people, places or things – Robin Williams, camping, Meghan Markle, private schools – are winners or losers. This exploration of female friendships leads us down a spiralling path of staunch sisterhood and deep-seated difference. As the discussion gets personal, how far is too far when confronting deep-seated beliefs?

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Based on the Governor General Award-nominated text by Marcus Youssef and James Long, this homegrown adaptation – re-written and re-cast with an all-female team – premiered to rave reviews at Toronto’s SummerWorks Performance Festival!

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“The elemental nature of this show (there is no set, just a simple folding table and two chairs) requires big, engaging performances. Planche and Simamba deliver, making this remount a clear winner.” – Now Magazine

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“Retained both the humor and all the edge of the original.” – Mooney on Theatre

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“Lively and revealing work” – Mooney on Theatre

“The affection between Planche and Simamba is palpable, and the play is gripping when it’s emotionally bare” – Globe and Mail