Riot Days is coming back to North America with a bold new version! This show is based on Maria Alekhina’s second book, which is set to be published in fall 2025. This is the first international tour with this project following the world premiere at Munich’s Haus der Kunst in February. Riot Days is a play based on the memoir of Pussy Riot’s Maria Alyokhina, recounting her two years in prison for public protesting in Russia, and finding power in the most powerless of situations. This stage performance is a story of resistance, repression and revolution in a mixture of concert, rally, theatre, and politics.

Since its inception in 2017, Riot Days has captivated audiences with its raw storytelling, chronicling Alyokhina’s experience with Pussy Riot, from their bold protests to their imprisonment and beyond. The show incorporates real-time global events, ensuring that each performance remains as urgent and relevant as ever.

This iteration delves into Maria’s personal journey after her release from a Russian prison, including:

  • Pussy Riot’s protests, such as their clash with Cossacks during the 2014 Sochi Olympics, and their actions of raising rainbow flags atop Russia’s most important government buildings.
  • Attacks by pro-Kremlin groups
  • Oppression and violence against LGBTQ+ people
  • The heroic story of Alexey Navalny—his arrest, imprisonment, and murder in prison
  • Maria’s multiple arrests
  • Putin’s invasion of Ukraine

Pussy Riot is a Russian feminist protest and performance art collective known for their provocative, activist punk performances. Since their arrest following a bold 2012 performance at Moscow’s Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, their message has only grown stronger, challenging systemic oppression and authoritarian rule. Masha Alyokhina’s personal sacrifices and continued activism have solidified her as a leading voice in the global resistance movement.

Proceeds from the show will support Ukraine and Russian political prisoners. As well, a significant portion of the project’s income supports the Ukrainian Okhmatdyt children’s hospital and foundation, underscoring Pussy Riot’s ongoing commitment to humanitarian efforts.

TOUR DATES and TICKETS

April 3 | Montreal | Club Soda

April 4 | Ottawa | Brass Monkey

April 5| Toronto | Lee’s Palace 

April 7 | Winnipeg | Park Theatre

April 9 | Saskatoon | Capitol 

April 10 | Calgary | Palace Theatre 

April 11 | Edmonton | Union Hall

April 13 | Kelowna | Revelry 

April 15 | Vancouver | The Pearl 

About the Author

Bryen Dunn is a freelance journalist with a focus on travel, lifestyle, entertainment and hospitality. He has an extensive portfolio of celebrity interviews with musicians, actors and other public personalities. He enjoys discovering delicious eats, tasting spirited treats, and being mesmerized by musical beats.