Burning Mom
A one-woman show about taking a big bite out of life.
Victoria, BC...From October 28 to November 23, 2025, the Belfry Theatre will present Mieko Ouchi’s heartwarming comedy, Burning Mom. Directed by Mieko (marking her Belfry debut), Burning Mom stars Susinn McFarlen as Dorothy. Susinn has starred in several Belfry productions, including Harbour House, A Perfect Ganesh, Sexy Laundry, Urinetown: The Musical, on the edge, and Mom’s the Word.
This is the story of Mieko Ouchi’s mother, Dorothy, and the pilgrimage she makes after the unexpected death of her husband. To the surprise—and distress—of her children, she announces that she wants to take the 26-foot-long RV that she and her husband purchased for a retirement tour and drive to the Burning Man Festival in the middle of the desert. It turns out to be an odyssey of self-discovery.
Why I Chose This Play
This is a play about letting go—of expectations, of fear, of grief—and reimagining your life. Far from my preconceptions, the Burning Man Festival is all about love and community. I am moved by the way in which Dorothy is embraced by other attendees—whatever their age or inclination. The love she receives and gives—moves me deeply. Michael Shamata
This production of Burning Mom is supported in part by a generous gift from Diane Scott.
Creative Team
Mieko Ouchi – Director & Playwright
Patrick Rizzotti - Set Designer
Ana Comacho - Associate Set Designer
Kirsten McGhie - Costume Designer
Hina Nishioka - Lighting Designer
Ashley Au - Sound Designer
Kim Clegg – Projection Designer
Ronaye Haynes - Stage Manager
Jessica Bournival - Assistant Stage Manager
Live Events during Burning Mom
B4PLAY (In Person + on Facebook)
Saturday, October 25 at 11 am
BMO Studio, 1291 Gladstone Avenue
Our live talk show hosted by CBC Radio’s Gregor Craigie and featuring artists from the upcoming show, along with experts from the community, has been designed to provide insight into each Mainstage production.
Each event is held the Saturday before Opening, is free to attend, live-streamed on Facebook, and is available as a podcast on our website.
To reserve free tickets, please call our Box Office at 250-385-6815.
Talkback Thursday
November 13, following the performance.
On the third Thursday performance during the run of each show, most (usually all) of the actors return to the stage to answer your questions and provide insight into the play you have just experienced. These Q & A sessions last approximately 20 minutes.
Accessible Performances
VocalEye – Burning Mom
November 16 at 2 PM (in-person event with Touch Tour & Social after)
For patrons with low or no vision, we offer one VocalEye performance during most Mainstage productions. Trained Audio Describers provide descriptions of the visual elements of the show, allowing people with low vision to enjoy the theatrical experience without missing any of the details. More information at the Box Office 250-385-6815.
Ticket Information
We are offering Pay-What-You-Want tickets for all performances this season. Tickets are available at 250-385-6815 or online at tix.belfry.bc.ca.
Show Sponsors
Burning Mom is generously sponsored by Peninsula Co-op, Caffe Fantastico and Used.ca
Season Sponsors
The Belfry is generously supported by BMO (Access Partner), The Times Colonist, and Helijet.
Public Funders
The Belfry is funded by the Canada Council for the Arts, the Province of BC, the BC Arts Council, CRD Arts Development, and the City of Victoria.
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Mark Dusseault