Four Fathers Stage A Hybrid MusicalShow About FatherhoodThe Outlaw and the Son (OATS)

A Western Noir told by Stoney Martins

Friday, November 21 & Saturday, November 22

 Atelier Theatre, Ottawa’s ArtsCourt

Ottawa, ON, October 1, 2025 - With traditional fatherhood roles changing and the family unit strained by cultural and social forces, four Ottawa-area fathers will stage a show in November that explores these topics through a rare combination of rock music and live theatre. The Outlaw and the Son (OATS), featuring singer-songwriter Tony Martins and guitarist Chris William Martin, is slated for two performances at the intimate Atelier Theatre in Ottawa’s ArtsCourt on Friday, November 21 and Saturday, November 22.

Martins, the production’s writer and featured performer, has long been deeply rooted in Ottawa’s art scene. While leading artistic and creative campaigns at one of the city’s top agencies, he also founded the beloved Guerilla Magazine—an independent arts and culture publication devoted to amplifying bold voices, underground movements, and disruptive creativity. Martins became a father at the relatively advanced age of 50, and was inspired to create a show that would combine his original music with his love for theatre, all coloured by the deep emotional experiences that came with parenthood.

“The intent with this show was never to be ideological or political,” says Tony Martins. “The intent was to be authentically human and place the unique bond between parent and child at the crux of the story. At the same time, fatherhood just happens to be a bit of a hot topic these days.”

Guitar player Chris William Martin has two daughters and has made a foundational impact on the show’s dark, country-rock soundscape and says “I was drawn to this production by Tony’s conviction and clear love for theatrical performance, along with the opportunity to create more haunting, atmospheric, and cinematic sounds than I am used to playing on the guitar.”

Even though it’s a two-man show, OATS offers an ambitious blend of guitar rock and dramatic storytelling, all of which demands just the right touch when it comes to lighting effects. Enter Ben Welland, a professional photographer and talented musician who will illuminate the stage and Ray Besharah, a seasoned local actor and father to a young son. Besharah will remain behind the scenes in November but has played a crucial support role in bringing OATS to life.

Tickets for the November showings are on sale now here.

For interviews or media accreditation:

Mary Jelley

KoW Connected

mary@kowconnected.ca

613-791-6703