5 O'Clock Bellsby Pierre Brault, Sleeping Dog Theatre - Toronto Premiere

Sold out during its Ottawa run, this critically acclaimed one-man show on jazz legend Lenny Breau makes its long-awaited Toronto debut as part of our Guitar Festival.

Born in Maine, then transplanted to Manitoba (where he taught the young Randy Bachman), guitar genius Lenny Breau was a legend during his tragically brief life.

A brilliant innovator who created his own distinctive jazz style from a dizzying fusion of influences, ranging from country to classical to flamenco, Breau had a transformative effect on Canadian and American music that is still heard today. In 1984, a few days after his 43rd birthday, he was found dead in a Los Angeles swimming pool, the victim of a murder that remains unsolved to this day. In this bravura one-man-performance, Pierre Brault delves into Breau's remarkable life, his mysterious death and, above all, the wonder of his music. Directed by Brian Quirt.

"Tough, tender and textured... As finely executed as it is conceived. Don't miss it."
- Patrick Langston, The Ottawa Citizen

Based on the original co-production with the Great Canadian Theatre Company. 5 O'Clock Bells was the winner of the award for Outstanding New Creation at the 2nd annual Rideau Awards, which honour the best in Ottawa professional theatre.

Meet the artists at a panel discussion. See Illuminations on the right side of this page.