Q – Fitz Happens! has had an enormously successful run at the Lighthouse Festival. How does that feel?
A- Really great. It’s very gratifying that the audiences connect so much with the material. Their laughter is music to my ears!

Q – Speaking of music, did you write the script and all the music and lyrics?
A – Yes, that’s right.

Q – You obviously have control issues.
A – Ha! I guess you could say that.

Q – It’s rare isn’t it, for the playwright to also write the music and lyrics.
A – Yeah, very. As far as the big names go, I can only think of Meredith Wilson, Lionel Bart, Jonathan Larson and Lin-Manuel Miranda. So I’m in pretty good company!

Q – Why did you choose to wear all those hats?
A – Well, as the writer, I knew the characters inside and out, so when it came to a point in the scene where I felt the character should have a song, then the music and lyrics became an extension of the dialogue. I was able to carry their thoughts in the dialogue into musical thoughts. I’m not sure I would be able to do that as efficiently with a collaborator.

Q – How would you describe the music?
A – It’s a pastiche. A variety of musical styles are represented. I had a lot of fun choosing what styles would be appropriate for which characters. For example, Fitz’s stuffy Victorian friends sing in a strict Gilbert and Sullivan style march, when Fitz takes over the tune, the tone switches over to a freewheeling sixties pop sound to represent his need to break out of tradition. I love having the music further character and plot like that.

Q – The script is very funny. Would you say there is a comedy style you were following?
A – I’ve heard people who have seen it say it is a cross between Monty Python and Mel Brooks, which I suppose is a fair enough description. I always admired the Python boys for their ability to be brainy and clever and base all at the same time.

Q – Base?
A – Well, one of the characters in Fitz is named “Whisky Dick”. Enough said, right?

Q – Fitz Happens! has a real theatricality about it. Actors play multiple characters, we zoom around from one location to another. Why did you choose that style?
A – I wanted the staging to be as zany and and fun as the script, so I made it deliberately “meta” theatrical. The stage is an incredibly sophisticated medium that can do things no other entertainment form can. I wanted to take full advantage of that to engage the audience’s imagination. It also affords lots of opportunities for gags!

Q – Why a Mountie as a lead character?
A – Why not?

Q – Was there something about the Mountie as a symbol that interested you?
A – Yeah, absolutely. Our image of the classic Mountie is that of a morally upright, honest, duty bound figure. Putting the cowardly Fitz into that role allowed for a lot of what a friend of mine calls “comic dissonance”. It became a “fish out of water” comedy which are always my favourites.

Q – Is your story based on fact?
A – No, but there really were guys like Fitz. The Victorian aristocracy had a habit of getting rid of problem sons by shipping them off to the colonies, the Canadian West mainly, with a small allowance, or “remittance”. They came to be known in Canada as “remittance men”. They all seemed to be impractical dreamers, as Fitz is, with big ideas but little practical ability to see their ideas through. In B.C. where I grew up, you could still see the remains of a horse racing oval right in the middle of a first growth forest. I remember asking myself who would be crazy enough to do something like that? The answer? The Remittance Men. But what they represent to me became the theme of Fitz Happens! – don’t be afraid of big dreams.

Q – Words to live by.
A – Indeed.

Leading up to opening night, each member from our 2016 Community Show Lend Me A Tenor will share why they auditioned, what they love about being in the show and their favourite parts of this must-see play.

Our 6th annual community show comes to the LFT stage April 21st to May 1st. For more information and to buy tickets, visit the Lend Me A Tenor event page here.

Claire Senko – JULIA

Past shows at LFT: Rumors
Why did you choose to audition? I love Richard and Heather
What is your favourite part of the show? I fly on wings of song
Why should someone come and see the show? Tight cast, good energy
What three words would best describe Lend Me A Tenor? Not for kids

Brian Reichheld – SAUNDERS

Past shows at LFT: Odd Couple, Drowsy Chaperone, Young Frankenstein
Why did you choose to audition? I was in this show many years ago and I wanted to see if my costume still fit. Dry cleaners shrunk it.
What is your favourite part of the show? “A Thundering Orgasm of Insane Violence” Did we mention this show is recommended for 14 and over?
Why should someone come and see the show? Great cast, funny script.
What three words would best describe Lend Me A Tenor? Embarrassment of Talent.

Darleen Degrieck – MARIA

Past shows at LFT: Young Frankenstein, Drowsy Chaperone, The Odd Couple, Nurse Jane Goes to Hawaii
What do you like so far about being in the production? I’m particularly honoured to work with Richard Dupp in his directorial debut.
What is your favourite part of the show? Exploring the many different ways to say “Pffhh”
Why should someone come and see the show? The LFT community shows are top notch productions put on by volunteers doing it for the love of it all. What more could you ask for?
What three words would best describe Lend Me A Tenor? Entertaining, lively, cheeky.

Dave Deelen – TITO

Past shows at LFT: Man in Chair in The Drowsy Chaperone, Ken in Rumors
Why did you choose to audition? The opportunity to be part of Rick’s directorial debut on the stage here at beautiful Lighthouse Theatre with a great and talented cast of friends…… count me in!!
What do you like so far about being in the production? The cast camaraderie and shenanigans
What is your favourite part of the show? Sleeping on stage ………a first for me and probably some of my best work to date.
Why should someone come and see the show? This is a show that hopefully gets rid of any of those work time blues and sheds those chains of everyday life. Something to make you laugh and feel good.
What three words would best describe Lend Me A Tenor? Fast Funny and Flirty
Anything else you’d like to share? Thanks to: My wife Kim for standing by me on yet another crazy adventure. Rick, Cast and Crew for the opportunity to bring Tito to the Lighthouse Stage. Lighthouse theatre and Derek for continuing their community support and to you the audience. I hope that you have as much fun watching as we will performing.

John Harris – MAX

Past shows at LFT: Harvey in Harvey, Mr. Munshin in Barefoot in the Park, Larry Keller in All My Sons, Damis in Crispin, Godot in Waiting for Godot
Why did you choose to audition? Any opportunity to be on the Lighthouse stage is a moment to be taken, embraced and enjoyed.
What is your favourite quote from the show? Where is Tito?

Carmen Rose Davis – DIANA

Past shows at LFT: Young Frankenstein & Drowsy Chaperone
Why did you choose to audition? The community show is the highlight of my spring. I love getting out on stage and being someone else. And if the character allows, I get to wear red lipstick! The relationships you build and the fun you have is worth all the time and energy put into rehearsing.
What do you like so far about being in the production? Lend Me a Tenor is a comedy so there are plenty of opportunities to laugh with the cast, our director Richard and our stage manager Heather. I never leave the theatre without a smile on my face. I often thought they should show a collection of bloopers after the performance to give the audience an idea of what’s it’s like to be a part of the process.
What is your favourite part of the show? The Bellhop is definitely my favourite character and so every scene that he is in, I find absolutely hilarious. Jason does a phenomenal job of capturing the essence of this character.
Why should someone come and see the show? The community show is entertaining and local. Supporting the LFT by coming out to see Lend Me A Tenor is a great way to get involved in Norfolk County. The cast and crew are all local people who enjoy the art of live theatre and love what they do on stage.
What three words would best describe Lend Me A Tenor? Without sounding too cliché, “LOL”.

Richard Dupp – DIRECTOR/CLOCK WINDER

Past shows at LFT: Every single one of the 7 community shows in the last 13 years. What were they again?
What do you like so far about being a part of the production? That I am working with my all fab friends! A dynamite cast! An explosive show! Patrons, be sure to wear a helmet!
What is your favourite part of the show? I don’t have to learn any lines! (more importantly, choreography)
Why should someone come and see the show? It’s a classic farce full of laughs! Also, I will TP their house if they don’t.
What three words would best describe Lend Me A Tenor? Lend Me a Tenor! (wait….isn’t that four words?)

It’s actually a “Non-Musical-Musical”! How is that you say!? It’s simply magic! Come and see!

Jason Mayo – BELLHOP

Past shows at LFT: This is my first!
Why did you choose to audition? I used to teach drama at PDCS and used LFT as my classroom. I really wanted an excuse to be back on that stage and enjoy myself.
What do you like so far about being in the production? The cast are a riot and really make my first LFT production enjoyable and comfortable.
What is your favourite part of the show? I adore the ladies in this show. They are so hilarious, spicy, and over the top.
Why should someone come and see the show? It’s the type of comedy that keeps you laughing even after the end. It’s worthwhile just for the smile it will put on your face.
What three words would best describe Lend Me A Tenor? Clever, Sassy, and Timeless.

Kristin Reid – MAGGIE SAUNDERS

Past shows at LFT: Drowsy Chaperone, Young Frankenstein
Why did you choose to audition? I find it is a fun and challenging way to perform alongside a talented group of local actors. I always learn so much when I do one of the LFT shows, and form great friendships along the way.
What do you like so far about being in the production? I love it when we are practicing a part in the show, and everyone (onstage and off) are laughing hysterically. It is so great to see their smiling faces, and that’s how I know when we’ve gotten it right. If someone who has seen this part a thousand times can still laugh at it, I can’t wait to see the audience’s reaction!
What is your favourite part of the show? I love it whenever Maria comes onstage. She is such a funny and expressive character, and Darleen plays her so well.
Why should someone come and see the show? This year’s cast is unreal. These are all actors who have been on stage quite a lot, so there is a lot to look forward to. The show is also just hilarious. I was laughing uncontrollably when I read through the play for the first time, so it will be great for anyone who comes to see it. Besides, coming to the Lighthouse to see a show is always a treat!
What three words would best describe Lend Me A Tenor? Entertaining, absurd, knee-slapper

I would like to give a shout-out to Richard and Heather. They have been great leaders and a lot of fun to work with.

In the spirit of #GivingTuesday, we would like to share a snapshot of two of our donors, Richard and Karen Davis. They have moved many times in their lives, but have been settled between Port Dover, in the summer months, and South Carolina, in the winter, for the last 10 years. They are wonderful, caring people with a contagious passion for the viability of the arts in our community. They have gone out of their way many times to show support for Lighthouse Festival Theatre’s growth and improvement, and we feel incredibly fortunate and grateful to have gotten to know them better over the past 2 years:

“We learned about Lighthouse from the very beginning of our time in Pt. Dover. It represented the one cultural offering that didn’t require a drive to Hamilton, Buffalo or Toronto. We bought a season subscription that first year and have continued to do so every year since.

Almost every year there’s a show that stands out. We appreciate that Lighthouse provides a forum for Canadian themes and playwrights. Specific highlights for us include Jasper Station, 39 Steps, and the first time we saw Norm Foster perform in one of his own plays.

We recently spent 3 years in France. We returned in the summers, so continued our season subscription. Since our return in 2012, we’ve seen the theatre grow and evolve, and become an integral part of Port Dover’s development, which is adding to the quality of life in the community.

We’ve been involved with fundraising for many years and with many organizations. We believe that we have a responsibility to support the community in which we live and organizations whose mission we value. As donors, we want to know what we’re supporting and what effect our gifts will have on the organization. As we’ve seen Lighthouse become more clear about how contributions will be used and for what purpose, the more involved we’ve become in supporting it.”

– Richard and Karen Davis

“Our 2016 Playbill is about discovering new ways to push the limits of comedy. It’s a Playbill brimming with wit, music, romance and ingenious storytelling. It’s a season that showcases three new Canadian pieces, including two world premieres and a new show by Canada’s biggest playwright, Norm Foster. All five stories will, together, blaze a trail of laughter for our audiences all summer long.”

– Derek Ritschel, Artistic Director

FITZ HAPPENS! May 18-June 4

Musical Comedy by MARK WEATHERLEY
Fitzwilliam is a fun loving British Aristocrat who has fallen on some tough luck. After almost every club in England has barred him from entry, his uncle send him away to one of the colonies. Canada is his destination and despite his protests, the job of Canadian Mountie awaits him in his new small town life. Unfortunately, the town of Dry Gultch is full of bandits and criminals and Fitzwilliam must use his wit and charm to save the tiny prairie town from ruin.

REAL ESTATE June 8-25

Comedy by ALLANA HARKIN
What to do when your client has even less curb appeal than his house? Declutter, simplify, add a touch of ‘feng shui’ and watch the sparks fly! Add a blocked writer, a guy with perfect hair, an ex-wife and an incredibly determined realtor… what could possibly go wrong? The comedy is solid, the characters well drawn and the circumstances? Hilarious!

SOMETHING FISHY June 29-July 16

Comedy/Farce by MARCIA KASH & DOUGLAS E HUGHES
Local hero Raymond Bream is running in the federal election, and has come back to his hometown of Port Walmsley to make a major campaign announcement that just might put him over the top. Meanwhile, the incumbent he’s running against has sent a couple of henchmen to town to prevent Raymond from making that announcement- by any means necessary. The showdown between the two camps and the bumbling henchmen will have you laughing all night long!

PERFECT WEDDING July 20-August 6

Comedy by ROBIN HAWDON
A bridegroom wakes in his bridal suite on his wedding morning, and finds a strange girl in bed beside him. His bride-to-be is about to arrive at any moment. The only way out of the dilemma is to persuade his best man to pretend that the strange girl is his girlfriend. By the time the bride’s parents and half the hotel staff get in on the act, the chaos reaches nuclear proportions!

JONAS & BARRY IN THE HOME August 17-September 3

Comedy by NORM FOSTER
Two retirees search for friendship, love, sex and elusive happiness in an assisted living home. Join Jonas and Barry in a laugh-a-minute journey as they search for clever ways to spice up their lives and the lives of those around them. This hilarious and poignant story will bring tears of joy and compassion, as Jonas and Barry win your hearts.

OH CANADA, WE SING FOR THEE! September 6-10

*SEASON TOPPER Created by LEISA WAY
Join Leisa Way and her sensational guest singers as they take you on a journey across the true north strong and free to hear a cavalcade of Canada’s biggest musical stars! You’ll be surrounded by the music of Michael Buble, Neil Young, Joni Mitchell, The Nylons, The Guess Who, Gordon Lightfoot, Bachman Turner Overdrive and many many more!

Find out how you can save when you purchase a 2016 subscription by clicking here.

This year’s 50/50 Trip to Jolly Ol’ London England was won by Joan Stewart, who will be bringing her best friend Ruth with her.

Thank you to everyone who purchased a 50/50 ticket this summer. Because of you, Lighthouse Festival Theatre volunteers were able to raise over $32,000! All of that will be reinvested into the art you see on stage next season.

The following message comes directly from Kate and her staff at Norfolk’s Marlin Travel, as the annual sponsor of this incredible trip draw.

Cheerio Lighthouse Festival Theatre Go-ers!

These vibrant ladies are definitely kindred spirits with Norfolk’s Marlin Travel! This 7 day Across The Pond Adventure includes: charming city accommodations, round-trip airfare, a smorgasbord of attractions with a Hop-on-Hop-off metropolitan tour, and a live West End Theatre performance! This splendid British Escapade is designed to make Big Ben chime in show tune tempo! ~All compliments of Norfolk’s Marlin Travel.

On behalf of my staff, I would like to sincerely thank you for supporting Lighthouse by attending and also purchasing 50/50 tickets. The theatre is a Norfolk County cornerstone, with a plethora of iconic talent… We are so fortunate to be part of it in our community.

As the 2015 stage lights fade, we look forward to another memorable theatre season and the sheer anticipation of the next 50/50 Trip Winner… As they say in the theatre, “That’s A Wrap!”

Sincerely,

Kate Stratford
Owner, Norfolk’s Marlin Travel
61 Robinson Street Simcoe
www.marlintravel.ca/1209

Lighthouse’s 2015 season long 50/50 winner was Hilda Dosi of Dundas.  She was presented with a cheque from longtime LFT volunteers Joyce and Al Reeves on September 24th in the lobby of the theatre.

“I was stunned,” Hilda admitted.  “I never win anything.” Hilda was invited by her friend and season subscriber Beverly Greenwood to attend the third show of the season, One Moment, where she purchased her winning 50/50 ticket.

Each day leading up to opening night, a cast member from our 2015 Community Show Young Frankenstein the Musical will share why they auditioned, what they love about being in the show and their favourite parts of this must-see play.

Our 5th annual community show comes ALIVE at LFT April 16th to the 26th. For more information and to buy tickets, visit the Young Frankenstein event page here.

Linda Tate – Ensemble

1. Past shows at LFT: I’ve never done a show before.
2. Why did you choose to audition? I always wanted to be involved in theatre so I decided this would be a great chance.
3. What do you love so far about being in the production? Meeting new people and realizing the vast talent that’s in Norfolk County.
4. What is your favourite part of the play? I fell in love with the movie in 1974- this was a perfect opportunity to be a part of the musical, all of it is fabulous!
5. Who would you like to thank? Everyone in the production for their patience and support, and my friends and family.

Haley Schott – Ensemble

1. Past shows at LFT: Snow White– LFT’s Young Company. I played Florence the bird.
2. Why did you choose to audition? It seemed like a really fun show. My good friends, Chloe and Grace, were also auditioning and they got parts as well.
3. What do you love so far about being in the production? Watching everyone else act and play their characters because they’re really talented. All of their accents are on point.
4. What is your favourite part of the play? I love the dancing and the overall upbeat and happiness of the show.
5. Who would you like to thank? The cast and crew, especially Heather and Derek.

Robyn Robinson – Victor

1. Past shows at LFT: This is my 1st show wth LFT. I have done 2 shows at SLT, TV commercials & I have been involved in numerous other projects.
2. Why did you choose to audition? To be part of something by Mel Brooks, I couldn’t wait.
3. What do you love so far about being in the production? All the people in the production are great, I have made so many friends. I’ve also enjoyed working with such a professional group!
4. What is your favourite part of the play? I just love a kick line!!! The dance for Puttin’ on the Ritz.
5. Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank everyone on & off the stage. There are so many people involved to create such a first rate production. Thank you to you all!!!!

Madison Reid- Ensemble

1. Past shows at LFT: Debut with Young Frankenstein
2. Why did you choose to audition? Was in Anne of Green Gables-caught the theatre bug and cast members recommended auditioning for Young Frank.
3. What do you love so far about being in the production? The music!
4. What is your favourite part of the play? Puttin on the Ritz and The Brain, and working with a fabulous and talented cast.
5. Who would you like to thank? Derek, our wonderful director, Tony, Michelle, Jan, and Kiri-Lynn as as well as all the behind the scenes people who have worked hard to put together this show.

Kristin Reid – Elizabeth

1. Past shows at LFT: The Drowsy Chaperone
2. Why did you choose to audition? I was in Drowsy and really enjoyed it. I went to school for music and love to sing and dance. This is the best way to do that, it’s a very fun atmosphere.
3. What do you love so far about being in the production? It challenges me to play a role that I wouldn’t normally play. Elizabeth is a lot more outgoing and obnoxious than I am. I had to push limits in terms of my behaviours and what I say/how I say them. It’s been a learning curve.
4. What is your favourite part of the play? Puttin on the Ritz the glitz and glam of it and the fact that the monster is ridiculous!
5. Who would you like to thank? Heather- she keeps us on top of things, Derek- for his creative mind, insight and in very few words he says exactly what needs to be said. Thank you to Kiri-Lynn for her fun and exciting choreography, to Michelle and Tony for their musical direction, and to my loving and supportive fiancée, Paul.

Brian Reichheld – Inspector Kemp

1. Past shows at LFT: The Drowsy Chaperone and basically every other community show at LFT!
2. Why did you choose to audition? I’m a veteran of community theatre, and let’s face it, everyone loves Mel Brooks! Plus, I wanted to work with my wife (Heather) and my theatre family.
3. What do you love so far about being in the production? I get to dance with a wooden leg, fits my dancing abilities to a T!
4. What is your favourite part of the play? The cheesy Mel Brooks humour, and of course Richard Dupp- he’s one of the reasons I keep coming back!
5. Who would you like to thank? Heather, Derek and the whole production crew.

Murray Porteous – Ziggy (The Village Idiot)

1. Past shows at LFT: First show at LFT.
2. Why did you choose to audition? My wife and I spent New Years’ Eve with some friends and we all wrote a list of ten things we wanted to accomplish this year and put them away to read again next New Years’ Eve. This play was not on my list. I don’t think Jennifer believed I was actually going to audition until I was going out the door, but the Young Frankenstein movie released in 1968 was a favourite movie of mine as a kid and I thought it might be fun to try out. Besides, we can live our entire lives doing what we know we can do well and feel quite comfortable, but where’s the fun in that?
3. Who would you like to thank? It has been an honour and privilege to have worked with such a talented and dedicated group of professionals and volunteers – thank you for your patience.

Christina Medeiros – Ensemble

1. Past shows at LFT: First show at LFT.
2. Why did you choose to audition? J.P. (aka Dr. Fronkensteen) came in and said I should be in a play- and I said yes, that’s exactly what I want to do!
3. What do you love so far about being in the production? How it gives me the ability to express my creativity and wild energy that I tend to possess.
4. What is your favourite part of the play? I love the choreography in Transylvania Mania,I like playing Elizabeth Darling- it’s all great, really!
5. Who would you like to thank? Derek and Kiri-Lynn for being wacky and cool and masters of their domain! I feel honoured to have this opportunity to work with such creative people.

Susan LaBone – Ensemble

1. Past shows at LFT: The Drowsy Chaperone
2. Why did you choose to audition? I had never seen the musical but I’ve always loved the movie and thought it would be fun to be part of this production.
3. What do you love so far about being in the production? The challenge of learning many dance routines and harmonies.
4. What is your favourite part of the play? My favourite character is Igor. This role is physically taxing for Richard Dupp but he always gives 100% at rehearsals.
5. Who would you like to thank? The whole production team and of course Derek who gives us so much positive feedback. It’s a nurturing environment that brings out the best in everyone.

Xochilt Kiernan – Ensemble

1. Past shows at LFT: Snow White with the Young Company, and other youth programs.
2. Why did you choose to audition? My 1st step to conquer the world!!
3. What do you love so far about being in the production? When we made mistakes at rehearsal.
4. What is your favourite part of the play? It’s gotta be a SURPRISE.
5. Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank my brothers, Thomas and Daniel, even though they are major pains in the butt- without them I wouldn’t have known my passion for acting!

Michael Fitzgerald – Ensemble

1. Past shows at LFT: First appearance.
2. Why did you choose to audition? I wanted to return to the theatre and thought this would be a great opportunity. I used to be involved in the 80s, but haven’t done anything in a long time.
3. What do you love so far about being in the production? Great cast, great crew and a super director (don’t tell him that). I’m learning a lot!
4. What is your favourite part of the play? Puttin on the Ritz– It’s going to be pretty spectacular when they’re all in costume and dancing- the choreograhpy is amazing!
5. Who would you like to thank? Derek, in particular, and the whole crew.

Richard Dupp- Igor

1. Past shows at LFT: (in reverse order) – The Drowsy Chaperone, The Odd Couple, Nurse Jane Goes To Hawaii, Rumors, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, and Jesus Christ Superstar.
2. Why did you choose to audition? A classic Mel Brooks farce! Irresistible!
3. What do you love about being in the production? A cast is a family. Great to be with old friends and make new ones.
4. What is your favourite part of the play? Transylvania Mania despite the fact that it almost kills me every time we perform it.
5. Who would you like to thank? Derek, the entire cast, and crew for all the laughs!

Darleen Degrieck – Frau Blucher

1. Past shows at LFT: Nurse Jane Goes to Hawaii, The Odd Couple, and The Drowsy Chaperone
2. Why did you choose to audition? I just love taking part in the journey from script to stage. Also, Derek Ritschel is the best.
3. What do you love about being in the production? It’s amazing to witness what this wacky bunch of sweethearts pull out of their hearts and heads and throw on stage…
4. What is your favourite part of the play? “Together Again” with Fred & Igor, Inga & Igor’s whip cracking, the wild and crazy energy of “Family Business” and of course Frau’s bent stare and bold remarks.
5. Who would you like to thank? I thank the brilliant cast and crew, Derek, Heather, Jan, Michelle & Tony, Sally and Kiri-Lynn for their guidance and hard work, and my kids as always, for their support, tolerance and love.

Grace Davis – Ensemble

1. Past shows at LFT: The Drowsy Chaperone
2. Why did you choose to audition? I had just finished Anne of Green Gables at The Simcoe Little Theatre and was looking for another opportunity to act and sing. I knew that working with Derek would be a hoot.
3. What do you love about being in the production? I enjoy being in this production because I know every rehearsal there will be something new to laugh about. I get to work with a great cast who are like family to me.
4. What is your favourite part of the play? My favourite character is Igor. It’s hard not to laugh when he’s on stage.
5. Who would you like to thank? I’d like to thank Derek for making this show the cheesiest it can be and to Heather and the rest of the crew who continue to inspire me each day.

Carmen Davis – Inga

1. Past shows at LFT: The Drowsy Chaperone and The Famous Five
2. Why did you choose to audition? This play is outrageously funny – I had to be a part of it!
3. What do you love about being in the production? I like to sing and dance and wear red lipstick. This production allows me to do all three without any inhibitions.
4. What is your favourite part of the play? Playing the seductress Inga is a dream come true. My favourite part in the show is singing Roll in the Hay and although challenging, I get to yodel a few times. Who could ask for anything more?
5. Who would you like to thank? I need to thank my family for all their support, my friends who think I’m crazy but love me anyway and of course my darling director, Derek who was able to see my inner Inga.

Chloe Craig – Ensemble

1. Past shows at LFT: The Drowsy Chaperone
2. Why did you choose to audition? I was in Drowsy last year and loved having Derek as a director. I auditioned because I couldn’t miss an opportunity to work with Derek and the rest of the LFT crew again.
3. What do you love about being in the production? The cast is wonderful, so fun to work with, and always so encouraging and kind. The show is a lot of fun to perform as well.
4. What is your favourite part of the play? I love the numbers ‘Join the Family Buisness’ and ‘Transylvania Mania’.
5. Who would you like to thank? Derek, Heather and the whole LFT crew for working as hard as the actors, my parents for being so supportive, and the talented cast for always making me smile and pushing me to do my best.

Doug Ballantyne- Monster

1. Past shows at LFT: The Drowsy Chaperone
2. Why did you choose to audition? I was in last year’s show- the crowning jewel in my big dumb guy career!
3. What do you like so far about being in the production? Working with the cast and crew. Plus, the script is hilarious.
4. What is your favourite part of the show? Puttin on the Ritz.
5. Who would you like to thank? My wife, son and father.

Maddie Ball – Ensemble

1. Past shows at LFT: The Drowsy Chaperone
2. Why did you choose to audition? I was in Drowsy with Derek and loved having him as a director. I decided I had to be in it because I had such a great time last year.
3. What do you like so far about being in the production? The cast are great to work with and make it really fun. Everyone is supportive and wonderful. Kiri-Lynn’s choreography is always a lot of fun, too.
4. What is your favourite part of the show? I love the song Puttin’ on the Ritz.
5. Who would you like to thank? Both my parents for being very supportive, for driving me to rehearsals and listening to me practice my songs. Heather, Derek, Jan, – everyone!

J.P. Antonacci – Frederick Frankenstein

1. Past shows at LFT: This is my LFT debut.
2. Why did you choose to audition? I loved Drowsy at LFT last year and knew this was a place I wanted to perform. I like making new friends and letting the zany side of my personality out on stage. And I couldn’t have asked for a zanier show!
3. What do you like so far about being in the production? My castmates continuously wow me. It’s such a treat to share the stage with so many funny and talented performers.
4. What is your favourite part of the show? There are some truly terrible jokes that still make me laugh even after months of hearing them. That’s a good sign, I hope!
5: Who would you like to thank? Big thanks to Derek, Heather and the production team for giving me this opportunity and for the many hours they put in behind the scenes to make the show, and the overall experience, special.