JUNE 6 – 16

By: Yorg

Step into the heart of Montreal in the 1970s with “Beyond Ken Dryden,” a heartfelt play starring the talented New York actor Max Katz. Katz, a Canadiens fan since his McGill University days, brings to life the story of Oren Safdie, a young Montrealer whose world revolved around Ken Dryden, the iconic goalie and his beloved hockey team.

Safdie waxes nostalgic on a nostalgic journey, as he reminisces about how Dryden and the Canadiens became his rock during challenging times. From a devastating house fire at the tender age of six to his parents’ eventual divorce when he was 14, Safdie found solace and stability in the camaraderie of the Canadiens. Through it all, he found refuge in the familiar sights of the Forum and the comforting taste of its famous hotdogs.

Against the backdrop of political upheaval, including the Parti Québécois’s historic 1976 election win, Safdie shares his experiences of growing up in a rapidly changing province. He recalls the bittersweet moments of reaching out to Ted Tevan’s renowned radio sports show and the validation that came with it.

For Safdie, 1971 was a monumental year—it marked Dryden’s arrival in Montreal and the beginning of his enduring love affair with the Canadiens. As Dryden led the team to six Stanley Cup victories over eight seasons, Safdie found himself drawn deeper into the fold. The players weren’t just athletes; they were family, providing a sense of stability and joy during uncertain times.

I loosely compared Safdie’s play as “The Wonder Years” of 1970s Montreal, “Beyond Ken Dryden” captures the innocence, growth, and pivotal changes of a bygone era. It’s a tale of love, resilience, and the unbreakable bonds forged in the heart of hockey’s most passionate city. “Beyond Ken Dryden” is as compelling as a breakaway goal in overtime…don’t miss it.

Written by Oren Safdie

Directed by Padraic Lillis 

performed by Max Katz

JUNE 6- 16, 2024 

Venue 9 / Studio Multimedia

4750, av. Henri-Julien

Montréal, Qc.,

H2T 2C8 (Metro Mont-Royal) 

THE PLAY RUNS 80 MINUTES JUNE
06 THU 18:00
09 SUN 16:45 

11 TUES 19:15
12 WED 21:00
14 FRI 19:45
16 SUN 14:00

@ VENUE 9 | STUDIO MULTIMEDIA, 

4750, AV. HENRI-JULIEN, 

MONTRÉAL, QC H2T 2C8 (METRO MONT-ROYAL)

TICKETS: $15 (AGES 10+)
BOX OFFICE: 514 849-FEST (3378) OR www.montrealfringe.ca