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Burning Mom, a one-woman show starring Susinn McFarlen, is a personal, funny, and heroic story by playwright Mieko Ouchi, whose mother (McFarlen) dealt with grief and personal identity after the sudden loss of her lifelong partner by heading out on the road.

Ouchi’s play grew out of a family tragedy, when her father was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and was given six months to live. When the playwright and her siblings considered going on a family trip, her mother declared, “I think we should go Burning Man.” The life-changing experience inspired Ouchi to share her mother’s story with a wider audience.

This comedic play follows Dorothy’s 21-hour pilgrimage from Calgary to Nevada to experience Burning Man, a culture-infused party in the vast desert. At its heart, Burning Mom fuses self-discovery with art, a road trip of epic proportions, and human connection. McFarlen, now 76 years old, vows to return to Burning Man with her RV!

Actor, director, and celebrated Canadian playwright Mieko Ouchi is Edmonton, Alberta-based. Her plays have been produced across Canada since 2003. Ouchi’s first full-length play, The Red Priest, was a finalist for the Governor General’s Award and later a Carol Bolt Prize winner.

By popular demand, Burning Mom’s run has been extended through April 24 at the Granville Island Stage. Visit Arts Club Theatre online for reservations.