Diana & Ted’s theatre grows from pizzeria basement into major success. Then it burns down. The show must go on, but how?

This is an underdog love story. Diana and Ted's journey provides a cinematic immersion into the magic (and misfortunes) of Canada's hottest theatre. Shot over a four-year span with unprecedented access, we intimately go behind the scenes of their stylish, celebrated shows, from first designs to closing night. But at The Coal Mine, the biggest drama happens offstage. Hours before opening their largest, riskiest show, they face eviction and even death threats. Running the theatre is Diana and Ted's dream, but at what cost? Coal Mine's existence–and their relationship–hangs in the balance.

Coal Mine makes art with fierce independence on a shoestring. I can relate. I began this process documenting a season of plays, à la Wiseman or the Maysles. Fueled by a lifelong passion for theatre, I‘m fascinated by each thrillingly innovative show. Post-fire, it evolved into a far deeper and personal story of love and resilience. This funny, brilliant and complex couple, with equally dramatic backstories, had their limits nightmarishly tested. It's a rollercoaster ride I'm excited to share.