Do you have a favourite Guelph performing artist, craft person, media artist, visual artist, musician or ensemble, writer, that you believe deserves recognition?
Did you know you can give them that recognition by nominating them for a GRETA?
Well you can, and you can do that right HERE, right now.
February 28, 2027 will kick off this annual Bicentennial legacy event.
Want to know more? We take a deep dive into the underground of downtown Guelph to learn about what keeps this city healthy and alive. Stay tuned to learn about these special tours coming in October.
That's all I can say for now. This project is in development and JayWalking Guelph is delighted to be a part of it!
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.
Oh, and here's how all this started.
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.
Tour schedule.
No two shows are the same. It all depends what you pull out of the hat!
Hot off a successful Tea 'N' Tales event in Guelph in August now on to...
Fergus Grand Theatre 7-9pm Sunday Sept 20 Part of a Variety Show for Culture Days. Free admission. Location: 244 Saint Andrew St. W., Fergus ON Details HERE
The lovely gallery at Minto Arts Council Culture Days. 6:30pm Tuesday Sept 29 It is a pay what you wish event. Details HERE
Elora Public Library 6:30pm Thursday Nov 12 Registration details to be announced
Other dates coming soon...
Plus: 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.
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
Enjoy The Unfortunate Man as a private walking tour for your own group of four or more. CONTACT ME
