Everything you need to know about Nightwalks with Teenagers
With Nightwalks with Teenagers, generations come together to wander the streets after nightfall. This performance, orchestrated by teenagers, reveals its power as the walk unfolds, when barriers fall and unexpected connections are formed. Here’s everything you need to know about this unique show!
One evening in 2011, Darren O’Donnell, Artistic Director of Mammalian Diving Reflex, was heading home after attending a show with “The Torontonians,” a group of teenagers mentored by the company through various artistic projects. Instead of taking public transit, the teens convinced him to walk. What began as a simple stroll quickly turned into a singular experience: the teens played music, took turns talking to strangers, and challenged each other to impromptu parkour competitions.
Carried by that unique sense of teenage freedom, Darren O’Donnell had the idea to create a performance where strangers of all ages would wander the streets together, chatting about everything and nothing, led by the contagious energy of youth. Nightwalks with Teenagers was born.
Since its first edition in Inverness, Nova Scotia, the project has traveled the world: from Bristol, Amsterdam, Berlin, Brussels, and Mexico City to Perth, Brisbane, Tokyo, and Toronto. Hundreds of teenagers have brought the performance to life in the streets of their own cities. Some have even gone on to become project coordinators years after participating!
After touring in Vancouver with its socially engaged performances Haircuts by Children, Eat the Street, The Children’s Choice Awards, Sex, Drugs & Criminality, and soon Everything Has Disappeared at the PuSh International Performing Arts Festival, Mammalian Diving Reflex is now presenting Nightwalks with Teenagers for the first time in a bilingual version, in collaboration with Théâtre la Seizième.
Now’s your chance to experience their work! Get your tickets for Nightwalks with Teenagers, running from September 25 to October 4, 2025, starting at 7:30pm.
What to expect during performances of Nightwalks with Teenagers? Here’s a short practical guide to help you make the most of this unique, in-between moment!
Is it a show or a walk?
Nightwalks with Teenagers is halfway between a performance and a social event. It is an immersive experience : teenagers are in charge, but adults are warmly invited to fully engage with the interactive moments along the way.
- How long is the performance?
It lasts about two hours, with several breaks planned along the route. The meeting point and final destination will be at different locations, both near Théâtre la Seizième in the Fairview neighbourhood. - Can I bring a thermos, water bottle, or snack?
Absolutely, it’s even encouraged! - What if the weather isn’t great?
Rain doesn’t stop Vancouverites: the performance goes on, rain or shine. Rain ponchos will be provided. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and bringing your favourite sweater in case the evening gets chilly! - Is the show suitable for older adults or children?
The performance is accessible to people of all ages, though it’s designed with adult participants in mind.
