Directed by Dylan Trahan
Drama. Comedy. Chaos. Chums.
Ever wonder what happened when the cameras stopped rolling on the set of the world’s first summer blockbuster?
“The Shark is Broken” let’s you step inside the cramped, floating pressure cooker of the Orca during the filming of JAWS. The play dives deep into the hilarious and high-stakes ego clashes between the film’s three legendary stars: the seasoned veteran Robert Shaw, the ambitious newcomer Richard Dreyfuss, and the wry Roy Scheider.
With a mechanical shark that won’t work, a director who’s over budget, and three actors who are stuck at sea with way too much booze and even more baggage, it’s a brilliant behind-the-scenes look at how movie history was made—against all odds.
“The Shark is Broken” features:
- Witty & Sharp: A fast-paced script that balances biting humor with poignant moments.
- Iconic History: Get the “real” story behind the yellow barrels and the most famous monologues in cinema.
- Intimate Drama: A masterclass in character study and what happens when big personalities are trapped in a small boat.
REVIEWS
The Beat Magazine • April 12, 2026 • Reviewed by Jo-Anne Bishop
Theatre Aezir’s The Shark is Broken Hooks the Audience—Line and Sinker
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Had a great time checking out Theatre Aezir’s production of *The Shark Is Broken*! 
Such a fun and dynamic show, kept me engaged the whole way through. Also if you were wondering – it’s iced tea in the whiskey bottles! 
Huge congrats to the talented cast for bringing so much energy and chemistry to the stage, and kudos to the director and crew.
If you’re looking for something entertaining, definitely worth going to see. Support local theatre – you won’t regret it!
Skylar Franke – London City Council Ward 11 Councillor
Director Dylan Christopher Trahan and his cast present audiences with a master-class in ensemble acting! They take advantage of a wonderful script to drop us into their world of the summer of 1974, during the making of ‘Jaws’, the grandparent of the summer blockbuster genre. Jackson R. R. Balint plays the petulant, up-and-comer Richard Dreyfuss to perfection. Andrew Dodd gives a beautifully nuanced performance as the voice of reason, Roy Scheider. Josh Cottrell as the irascible Robert Shaw eases into his role with believability and passion.
The overall design, in terms of set, lighting, and props, is outstanding. The soundscape is of particular note, it is exceptional, but not intrusive, a perfect balance!
‘The Shark is Broken’ runs until April 19. Do your best to see this show!
Brian Speagle
OUR CAST
Andrew Dodd as Roy Scheider
Jackson Balint as Richard Dreyfuss
Josh Cottrell as Robert Shaw
OUR CREW
Doug Cottrell – Props Master & Set Decorator
