About us

Blackthorn Productions is a Guelph based company that specializes in Education and Entertainment. For over 15 years we have focused on the grade 4 unit on medieval history and teaching Stage Combat workshops to high school drama classes as well as the public.  Our programs include festivals, live theatre, educational programs, workshops, film projects and customized presentations.  Blackthorn Productions provides a complete, fun filled family oriented experience. Our medieval presentations conform to the Ontario Social Studies (Grade 4) Curriculum for Medieval History and our stage combat workshops are linked to the SHSM program (Specialist High Skills Major).

Going back to his roots, Artistic Director Ian Walsh, is in the process of writing and producing film, television and theatre projects for Blackthorn Productions.  This has been made possible, in part, with a recent partnership with Lolabo Pictures in Kitchener-Waterloo.  Although Medieval will always be a passion the company needs to diversify and spread its wings.  In future look for other projects like public festivals, workshops and whatever crazy projects we can come up with.

Ian Walsh
Lord Aelrec, Earl of Blackthorn

Ian Walsh is the Artistic Director and Founder of the company. With over 25 years of theatre, film, medieval reenactment and teaching experience, Ian is a font of knowledge with a passion and love for what he does that shines through with every presentation.