Brian Holstein recites "Ode To JayWalking Guelph"

A few years ago I performed a poem for Tea 'N' Tales. Brian Holstein returned the favour by composing this for me.

Give a listen. You'll find it most enjoyable.

Jay Wilson

Who is Jay Wilson? 

Jay Wilson is a storyteller, actor, and creator drawn to powerful writing and unforgettable stories. From his one man shows to his JayWalking Guelph tours, he seeks out compelling text - rich in character, tension and truth - and brings it to life for stage and street. For Jay a strong script is the heart of every performance, inviting audiences to lean in, listen closely, and discover something that lingers long after the final word.

Would you like to stay in touch? From time to time I send a brief email about upcoming walking tours, storytelling performances, and new projects. If you'd like to receive occasional updates simply send me a note at JayWalkingGuelph@gmail.com and I will add you to Friends of JayWalking. I write only when there is something genuinely worth sharing.

Heads & Tales Storytelling Theatre

Tour schedule. 

No two shows are the same. It all depends what you pull out of the hat!

Guelph Public Library, 6pm, Thursday Aug 6 Register HERE

Tea 'N Tales 10:30am Friday Aug 28. Just show up. Information HERE

The lovely gallery at Minto Arts Council Culture Days. 6:30pm Tuesday Sept 29 It is a pay what you wish event.

Elora Public Library 6:30pm Thursday Nov 12 Registration details to be announced

Your picnic, gathering, library, intimate venue - Call me.

A hat full of titles. A room full of words.

A night of stories chosen by chance.

You draw the title. I take the leap.  

The True Story of the Harvey Murders 1889

 

The Unfortunate Man: Guelph’s Most Shocking True Crime Story

In March 1889, the Royal City was shaken by a tragedy so shocking that businesses closed, crowds filled the streets, and newspapers declared that no event in Canadian history had inspired such grief, fascination, and horror.

The Unfortunate Man retraces the final days of William Harvey—a respected accountant and devoted church leader whose life collapsed under the weight of financial disgrace, culminating in one of Canada’s most haunting crimes.

Through dramatic recitation, hear vivid newspaper accounts, courtroom testimony, eyewitness descriptions, and Harvey’s own final words brought chillingly to life.

More than a true crime tour, this is a powerful exploration of Victorian Guelph, public morality, faith, justice, mental illness, and the fragile line between respectability and despair.

A story that stunned a nation.
A tragedy that still echoes through Guelph’s streets.

90 minutes • Gentle walk • Mature audiences

Book a Private Tour

Enjoy The Unfortunate Man as a private walking tour for your own group of four or more. CONTACT ME

Heads and Tales at the Guelph Public Library

I've never done a performance at the West End Branch on Imperial Road.

Did you know they have a lovely outdoor patio? Might be a perfect spot for storytelling.

We had a great time July 2 at the Main Branch. 

Up next, Thursday Aug 6 at 6pm  Register HERE

Like all library programs the show is free.

Live stories. Zero safety net. Come curious. Leave surprised.  

Exciting news about Guelph's upcoming Bicentennial celebrations 2027

Gwelf Early Days at The River Run Centre 

Sunday January 17, 2027 at 2pm

TICKETS HERE

"I've always wanted to experience this show, but I am not really a fan of walking tours"

"Well have I got good news for you!" 

Gwelf Early Days is now an immersive indoor show. Same great stories, journal entries, newspaper accounts, diary writings and poetry revealing the humour, hardship and ambition of carving a city out of the forest.

Photographs and sound effects compliment the performance transporting you to 19'th century Guelph

And it is coming to The River Run Centre in January 2027 to kick off the Bicentennial celebrations.

You don't want to miss this!

JayWalking Theatre

I am drawn to one of theatre's oldest traditions: a performer standing before an audience and holding their attention through story, character, humour, and humanity.

It is a simple form. It requires little more than a voice, an imagination, and a willing audience. Yet it remains one of the most powerful ways we have of connecting with one another.