Celebrating New Works and Wonderful Talent!

I had the pleasure of watching the final tech rehearsal for From Cradle to Stage yesterday afternoon. Up to this point I had only seen bits and pieces of the shows so this was the first time I got to see them all in their entirety. I don't like watching shows too early in rehearsal because I don't think it is fair to those that are rehearsing. They want feedback but you can't really give appropriate feedback because the show isn't done and it might look that way (you don't want to crush them with a negative comment) or it really isn't your place to say anything (because they have a director who is doing that and you might contradict them). In any case, I watched yesterday and I must say I am very pleased with the evening of plays we will be premiering this week. All the t's were crossed and the i's were dotted.

The three plays offer up a real variety of themes and styles. The first, a reading of Poetry Unbound by Robert Zimmer, is a clever piece about poetry and art and inspiration. It is funny and intelligent and the cast brings a wonderful attack to it. At centre is the lovely Gabby Bernard who we first saw on Walterdale's stage as Margaret in Much Ado About Nothing. She is joined by several other strong actors both new and returning to Walterdale's stage. John Trehart is a newcomer who brings a smartness and sliminess to his character of Theory that is very fun to watch. Heather Patton, previously seen in Jimmy Dean last season, is sharp and authoritative as Academia. Robert MacDougall, who first appeared at Walterdale in Best Little Whorehouse and then later in Much Ado About Nothing, brings his delightfully over the top style to Pedanticus.

The second piece you'll be seeing is Even the Walls Have Eyes by Sherryl Melnyk. Anchored by Melanie Kerr, this is a monologue about confrontation and forgiveness. Melanie has a lovely naturalistic style that is compelling to watch. She is supported by Mady Faye and Steve Rempel who play a variety of figures from her past. Director Sarah Jackson added the echoing characters along with a haunting sound scape and moody lighting to create an uncomfortable intimacy that supports the piece beautifully.

Finally we will serve up Hope is Dead by Mike Czuba. Alex Fortier and Bob Klakowich populate this lonely world as two very different people who find connection on busy Bridge in the middle of the night. These two share the stage in a balanced way that makes you believe in their new found friendship.

I really enjoyed seeing all three plays. I am looking forward to Opening Night on Wednesday, May 18th so I can see how they grow and see how they are changed by the presence of a full house of people. That is the magic of theatre - every audience becomes part of the performance! I hope to see you there!

* Photo by Douglas Stewart - pictured are Alex Fortier and Bob Klakowich from Hope is Dead.