After relocating from Toronto, Chris and Julia Zimmerman settled to plant roots together in the small town of Fergus to live a life more aligned with their values and beliefs.

The pair had always dreamt of a place they called “mushroomville” - a place full of nature and whimsy. It would feature giant fantasy art installations and it would encourage performers to showcase their gifts to foster a space for communities to gather and revel in the beauty of togetherness.

In 2020, the husband and wife team got to work and launched The Forest’s pilot in the Fall of 2022.

Chris Zimmerman is the talented artist behind each handmade lifesize illuminated carving. Together with their love for whimsy, nature, and fairytales, they create the show experience.