A raw, funny, and unforgettable journey of family, identity, and growing up.
 

As I Must Live It is a funny, endearing, and thought-provoking new work from award-winning spoken word artist Luke Reece. Through poetic storytelling touching on everything from antagonistic squirrels to Chris Pratt’s abs, Reece shares his experiences growing up with a mentally-ill father in a mixed-race family. Featuring Reece’s signature deft wordplay, with the direction of internationally acclaimed audience-specific practitioner Daniele Bartolini and stunning projections from one of the UK’s leading immersive production design companies, Limbic Cinema. As I Must Live It brings the page to the stage for an intimate and pun-filled event.

Recommended for ages 13+. Some explicit language. Mention of suicidal ideation, mental illness, and grief. Flash and video motion warning. The immersive installation includes prominent sound, light and video projection directly on the audience. May not be recommended for individuals experiencing motion sickness and those sensitive to light and sound. Also includes water-based haze & audience on stage with actor.  

Brookfield Residential YMCA at Seton: February 6, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. and February 7, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Shane Homes YMCA at Rocky Ridge: February 13, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. and February 14, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
 

Performed by Luke Reece
Performance start time 2:00 p.m. matinee and 7:00 p.m. evening 

As I Must Live It: Seton YMCA

February 6 & 7, 2026
Performances at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

Evan Hazell Theatre at Brookfield Residential YMCA at Seton

Tickets from $20.00

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As I Must Live It: Rocky Ridge YMCA

February 13 & 14, 2026
Performances at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

BMO Theatre, Shane Homes YMCA at Rocky Ridge

Tickets from $20.00

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