The Unfortunate Man Friday Oct 30, 2026 at 7:30pm

THE UNFORTUNATE MAN

A Halloween Eve Walking Tour

Friday, October 30 | 7:30 PM | Downtown Guelph

One night only! Limited spaces.

Admission: $25 per person, payable on arrival. Cash or e-transfer.

Reservations required: Text JAYWALKING, your name and the number attending to 519 820-3269.

Reservations will be confirmed by text.

We meet on Douglas Street in front of The Red Brick Cafe

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

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

The Unfortunate Man is a riveting walking tour that retraces the final days of William Harvey—a respected accountant, and devoted church leader, whose life collapsed under the weight of financial disgrace, leading to one of the most haunting crimes in Canadian history. 

Along the way, hear gripping newspaper accounts, courtroom testimony, eyewitness descriptions, and Harvey’s own final words—brought vividly to life through dramatic recitation. 

This is more than a true crime tour. It is a powerful exploration of Victorian Guelph, public morality, mental illness, justice, faith, 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 

Thank you Guelph

A huge thank you to everyone who participated in the Diggable Downtown Walking Tours!

Tracy Suerich did an amazing job putting this program together and thank you hospitality providers: Galata Cafe, Miijidaa Bistro, Cafe Capistrano, The Flour Barrel, Brother's Brewery, La Cucina Pizzeria

Registration now live for Heads & Tales in Elora

 

Register HERE 

...for a performance of Heads & Tales at the Elora Public Library, 144 Geddes Street.

The show takes place on Thursday November 12, 6:30-7:30pm

Registration is free and easy.

You will love this show!

Heads & Tales

One Hat. One Stage. Endless Possibilities.

As a student of theatre, Jay was captivated by legendary performers who could recite poetry, speeches, or any text at the drop of a hat. In Heads & Tales, he does just that: drop the hat and entertain.

Over the years, monologues, poems, and unforgettable passages have gathered in the recesses of his mind. To keep them alive, the titles go into a hat. You draw one. Jay performs it. Neither of you knows what’s coming next.

Every performance is different. Every draw is a surprise.
An evening of stories, wit, and words brought vividly to life.

Come curious. Leave surprised.

Christmas 2026

The time to book this show is NOW.

Perfect for house parties, neighbourhood gatherings, Libraries, Galleries, Intimate spaces, any Christmas event where stories are appreciated.

Isn't That the Dickens!

There is something wonderfully simple about gathering together to listen to a holiday story. A storyteller, a familiar tale, and the invitation to let your imagination do the rest.

Isn't That the Dickens! is a playful retelling of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, re-imagined as rhyming verse and presented in the spirit of an old-fashioned radio play.

Jay Wilson draws listeners into the world of Ebenezer Scrooge, bringing characters to life through poetic verse and atmospheric sound effects. Ghosts appear, unexpected visitors arrive, and moments of mischief give way to the transformation of a man who has forgotten how to care about others.

And no Christmas storytelling gathering would be complete without A Visit from St. Nicholas, the beloved poem that begins "'Twas the night before Christmas..." — Christmas magic that has delighted generations.

The audience is invited to listen, laugh and allow the sounds and words to create the pictures. Children and adults share the same experience, each discovering something different in the telling.

At its heart, this is a celebration of Christmas storytelling — a chance for families, friends and neighbours to spend a little time together, enjoying stories about generosity, kindness and the possibility of change.

Created and performed by Jay Wilson / JayWalking Theatre

wilsonjay7@gmail.com    519 820-3269

Guelph Public Library - Farewell To Main

It is no secret Guelph is getting a new library!

So soon we will say farewell to the 100 Norfolk Street Main Branch.

Library Recollections
Your memories and stories from 100 Norfolk Street

Do you remember your first visit? A favourite librarian? Bringing your children? Something funny, unexpected or important that happened here?

Come sit down with Jay for a few minutes and help preserve some of the memories of 100 Norfolk Street. Your stories will help inspire a special storytelling event celebrating the people and memories that have been part of the Main Library’s life.

I am excited to tell you that I have been gathering some excellent stories and memories.

Want to share your memory? Reach out and let's arrange a time. You know how to reach me.

Guelph 200 Preparations

Spending Thanksgiving, reviewing Guelph's 150th anniversary to see if there are some ideas worth considering for Guelph's 200. Why re-invent the wheel eh?

A parade still comes to the top of the list. Look at this - huge crowds - even a helicopter to capture the excitement!

And a grand ball can raise a lot of money for a worthwhile legacy project.

Booking information and Tickets to upcoming shows

You don't want to miss a single show, so here is your "go to" site for all things JayWalking Theatre.

Amazing ticket link HERE

This is where you can access tickets/reservations to:

(Guelph) The Unfortunate Man Halloween Walking Tour any day, any time. Private group tour

(Elora) Heads & Tales - Elora Public Library - Thurs Nov 12, 6:30pm REGISTRATION HERE

(Guelph) Farewell To Main - Library Recollections - Sat Nov 28 & Mon Dec 14

(Guelph) Isn't That The Dickens - Christmas show at the Sally Wismer Gallery - Sat Dec 5 & Sat Dec 12 (tickets coming soon)

(Guelph) Gwelf Early Days Bicentennial Show at the Guelph River Run Centre - Sun Jan 17, 2027

and book performances for Lilt of Laughter, Trace of Tears and Heads & Tales