#FIRSTLOOK: RACHAEL MCCAIG’S “50/20” EXHIBITION NOW OPEN AS PART OF 2026 CONTACT PHOTOGRAPHY FESTIVAL

Following an overwhelming show of support at its opening night celebration
last night, acclaimed Toronto-based photojournalist Racheal McCaig’s landmark exhibition
50/20 is now officially open to the public at the historic El Mocambo.

Presented as part of the 2026 CONTACT Photography Festival and in celebration of the 50th
anniversary of Canadian Actors’ Equity Association, the exhibition is free to attend and runs until
May 20, 2026.

50/20 brings together two decades of photography documenting the artists, productions,
rehearsals, backstage moments, and performances that have helped shape Canadian theatre
and live performance culture. Through McCaig’s lens, audiences are invited into an intimate
visual archive that captures the humanity, collaboration, and creative energy behind some of
Canada’s most celebrated theatrical works and performers.

Featuring portraits and moments involving legendary Canadian talents including Martin Short,
Catherine O’Hara, Eugene Levy, Ross Petty and many others, the exhibition reflects the
breadth and depth of a national arts community whose impact continues to resonate across
generations.

More than a traditional gallery presentation, 50/20 is designed as an immersive experience.
Carefully curated music, digital installations, and large-scale photographic presentations
transform the El Mocambo into a living tribute to Canadian theatre culture. The exhibition moves
audiences through decades of artistic history while creating space to reflect on the often unseen
work that happens behind the curtain.

At its core, the exhibition highlights the importance of preserving and celebrating Canada’s
theatre history. McCaig’s photographs document not only performances, but the relationships,
labour, emotion, and creative process that sustain the performing arts community across the
country.

Held within one of Toronto’s most iconic cultural venues, the exhibition continues the El
Mocambo’s renewed vision as a multidisciplinary creative hub supporting music, visual art, and
live performance.

A highlight of the exhibition also includes Women Who Rock, McCaig’s permanent stairwell
installation at the El Mocambo honouring influential artists including Annie Lennox, Joni Mitchell,
Sarah McLachlan, Nelly Furtado, Jackie Richardson, and Angélique Kidjo.

Details:

Location: El Mocambo, 464 Spadina Ave, Toronto

Exhibition Dates & Times:
Friday, May 15th: 1pm-8pm
Saturday, May 16th: 1pm-6pm

Sunday, May 17th & Monday, May 18th: 11am-7pm

Tuesday, May 19th: 1pm-7pm
Wednesday, May 20th: 6pm-10pm
Admission: Free