Written by Stephen Massicotte and directed by Derek Ritschel, the production runs from July 3 to 20 in Port Dover and from July 24 to August 4 in Port Colborne

June 21, 2024 – Port Dover, ON | Lighthouse Festival is thrilled to announce its third production of the season, Stephen Massicotte’s evocative play Mary’s Wedding. This poignant and deeply moving drama explores the themes of love, loss, and the lingering shadows of war, set against the backdrop of World War I.

Mary’s Wedding is a beautiful, lyrical journey that begins the night before Mary is to be married. As Mary dreams, she revisits her memories of Charlie, a young soldier she fell in love with. The audience is taken on an emotional ride through their budding romance, the trials of separation, and the heartache of war, all told through a seamless blend of reality and dream.

Daniel Reale, who plays Charlie, shared his thoughts on the play: “I think the audience will leave thinking about a few things. The absolutely stunning poetry and writing in the piece, the impacts of the First World War, the social constructs of the early 20th century – but mostly I hope they leave thinking about all those incredible sensations that come with first love. All of the joy, ease and excitement of finding a person that you can’t ever imagine living without. I love this show for giving me the opportunity to live in that world.”

Evelyn Wiebe, portraying Mary, added: “Mary reminds me of Juliet. Young, in love, passionate, fiery, witty and curious. She feels everything so deeply and that’s just the most satisfying thing as an actor. To hear a woman in the 1900s being bold. A lot of folks tend to dismiss a woman falling in love as ‘typical’ or trope-like. Mary is so much more than that. She’s just a beast of a woman. It’s just the most fun to play.”

The production is helmed by Lighthouse Festival’s Artistic Director, Derek Ritschel, who brings a unique perspective to the play, having starred as Charlie in the 2005 production. “Directing this play has been a deeply rewarding experience and a passion project of mine,” says Ritschel. “I fell in love with the show over 20 years ago and I’m thrilled to bring the show to the Lighthouse audience. The cast and crew have poured their hearts into bringing this story to life, capturing the delicate balance between the sweetness of young love and the harsh realities of a world at war. Their dedication and passion are evident in every scene.”

Ritschel continued: “Mary’s Wedding is not just a love story; it is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of dreams to transcend time and space. Through Mary’s dreams, we experience the beauty of love and the harrowing impact of war, all while navigating the ethereal boundaries between reality and imagination.”

Mary’s Wedding promises to be a standout production in Lighthouse Festival’s season, offering audiences an unforgettable experience filled with heartfelt performances and stunning storytelling.

The play runs from July 3 to 20 in Port Dover’s Lighthouse Theatre and from July 24 to August 4 in Port Colborne’s Roselawn Theatre. Don’t miss this chance to witness a powerful narrative brought to life by an exceptional cast and creative team.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https://lighthousetheatre.com/event/marys-wedding/ or contact the box office at (888) 779-7703.

Cast

Creative Team

About Lighthouse Festival
Lighthouse Festival is a charitable organization devoted to the development and production of new and existing Canadian plays. Lighthouse Festival strives to be artistically excellent, support and encourage local and regional artists, and be a source of enjoyment and pride in local communities while promoting local tourism. Located in two beautiful towns on Lake Erie, our theatres operate on a central policy of hospitality, accessibility, and affordability for all.

Media Contact
For media inquiries, cast interviews and further information, please contact:

Don Kearney-Bourque
Marketing & Communications Manager
Lighthouse Festival Theatre Corporation
don@lighthousetheatre.com
Direct: (226) 290-0070
Cell: (289) 541-7410

Production runs from June 12 to 29 in Port Dover and from July 3 to 14 in Port Colborne

June 3, 2024 – Port Dover, ON | Lighthouse Festival is thrilled to announce its 2024 summer theatre production, Murder at Ackerton Manor, a murder-mystery comedy written and directed by acclaimed Canadian playwright Steven Gallagher, as its second production of the season. This side-splitting, suspenseful play promises to keep audiences on the edge of their seats and rolling in the aisles from June 12 to 29 in Port Dover and from July 3 to 14 in Port Colborne.

Steven Gallagher brings his latest creation to life with an exceptional cast and crew. “In the case of Murder at Ackerton Manor, I feel like I understand this genre very well, and I know how I want it to be played,” says Gallagher. “I wrote this play for my mom. It’s an homage to the first summer stock plays she brought me to and to all the Agatha Christie novels she had stuffing our bookshelves. My goal is to combine my love of murder mysteries with my love of Mel Brooks, and I hope audiences enjoy the ride along the way!” 

The play features a talented ensemble cast, each of whom play multiple roles. Adrian Shepherd-Gawinski, who takes on the character of Curtiss, among others, is excited about the production’s many roles. “I’m a simple man who loves doing silly voices, and switching between them is just like learning a dance, a knitting pattern, or driving stick. The real challenge with playing multiple characters is making sure I’m not having so much fun with the silly voices that I forget to think about them as real people.” Shepherd-Gawinski was last seen on the Lighthouse stage in 2023’s groundbreaking production of Bed and Breakfast, which received rave reviews from patrons and theatre critics alike.

Andrew Scanlon, who portrays Roger Ackerton and other characters, echoes this sentiment. “Steven is an old friend and one of my favourite theatre artists to collaborate with. Much like the work he creates, he is thoughtful, creative and incredibly funny. When he invited me to join the company of his joyful, original, zany play at Lighthouse, I immediately jumped at the chance!”

Eliza-Jane Scott rounds out the cast as Ariadne Ackerton and various other roles, demonstrating remarkable adaptability and humour. “The comedy aspects of the play definitely drew me to this role,” says Scott. “It’s such a fun and zany comedy….it’s absurdity at its best and I so love comedy!” Her performance is sure to captivate and amuse!

The story of Murder at Ackerton Manor is set in a gothic manor with a dark past. The plot thickens as secrets are unveiled, and the body count rises. With its blend of mystery and comedy, the play keeps the audience guessing until the very end. Gallagher’s direction ensures that the humor is sharp, and the suspense is palpable.

“What I love about new plays is their constant evolution during rehearsals,” says Gallagher. “Working with great actors helps me shape a new play, and the prospect of changes always keeps me on my toes. I’m often fine-tuning scenes and dialogue right up to the opening night, and even during the run, I’m observing and making mental notes for future drafts.”

The set, designed by the talented Megan Cinel, brings the gothic manor to life with stunning detail and atmosphere. “Megan’s design is a character in itself,” says Don Kearney-Bourque, Lighthouse Festival’s Marketing & Communications Manager. “The set’s intricate, gothic elements add an eerie backdrop that enhances the overall experience. It’s a visual feast that that will keep audiences enthralled.”

Tickets for Murder at Ackerton Manor are now on sale, with performances running from June 12 to 29 at Lighthouse Theatre in Port Dover and from July 3 to 14 at Roselawn Theatre in Port Colborne. Don’t miss this unique theatrical event that combines mystery, comedy, and masterful performances in one unforgettable show.

Cast

Creative Team

About Lighthouse Festival
Lighthouse Festival is a charitable organization devoted to the development and production of new and existing Canadian plays. Lighthouse Festival strives to be artistically excellent, support and encourage local and regional artists, and be a source of enjoyment and pride in local communities while promoting local tourism. Located in two beautiful towns on Lake Erie, our theatres operate on a central policy of hospitality, accessibility, and affordability for all.

Media Contact
For media inquiries, cast interviews and further information, please contact:

Don Kearney-Bourque
Marketing & Communications Manager
Lighthouse Festival Theatre Corporation
don@lighthousetheatre.com
Direct: (226) 290-0070
Cell: (289) 541-7410

Production runs from May 22 to June 8 in Port Dover and from June 12 to June 23 in Port Colborne

Port Dover, ON – May 6, 2024 | Lighthouse Festival is excited to present the highly-anticipated production of Norm Foster’s comedic hit, Doris and Ivy in the Home. Directed by Lighthouse Artistic Associate Jane Spence, this engaging and hilarious play features the stellar talents of Ian Deakin, Melanie Janzen, and Brigitte Robinson. The production runs from May 22nd to June 8th in Port Dover, before moving to Port Colborne from June 12th to June 23rd.

Doris and Ivy in the Home is a heartfelt comedy that explores the dynamics of friendship, age, and life transitions within the walls of a retirement home. With Foster’s signature wit and empathy, the play promises to deliver both laughter and poignant moments.

Ian Deakin, playing the role of the charming retiree Walter, expressed his excitement about the project. “I’ve known playwright Norm Foster for decades, and have appeared in several of his productions. My character in Doris and Ivy in the Home is an eccentric and heartfelt role, but essentially fulfills the playwright’s promise of lots of laughs too. Norm has been serving up his comedy style from the very beginnings of his long and prolific career, much to the delight of audiences across Canada and around the world.”

Melanie Janzen, who stars as the wise and witty Doris, shared her thoughts on her character, stating, “Doris is very much ‘what you see is what you get.’ I like her brashness and her confidence. There’s no beating around the bush with Doris…I could stand to be a little more like her!”

Brigitte Robinson, taking on the role of the ever-optimistic Ivy, added, “I thought Doris and Ivy in the Home was Norm Foster at his best.  Not only is it very funny but it shines a light on the lives and relationships of women and men as they age.  What also drew me to play the part of Ivy was the chance to work with the director Jane Spence, with whom I had acted in Calendar Girls at the Mirvish Theatre in Toronto and with Melanie Janzen, whose work I had always admired in our days together at the Shaw Festival.”

Director Jane Spence praised her cast and the play. “Norm Foster’s writing, rich with humour and poignancy, reminds us of the importance of seeking out meaningful connections at whatever stage of life we find ourselves. Through Doris and Ivy, we witness a dynamic and touching journey of self-discovery and companionship.” She continues, “Our talented cast
brings a wonderful blend of authenticity and warmth to their roles, embodying the essence of Foster’s characters with grace and charm. I invite you to join us in celebrating these incredible stories—stories that are not just observed, but deeply felt.”

Lighthouse Festival’s production of Doris and Ivy in the Home offers a unique blend of humour and heart. With a talented cast and a seasoned director at the helm, this show is set to be one of the most talked-about theatrical events of the season.

Tickets are available now and can be purchased through the Lighthouse Festival’s website at www.lighthousetheatre.com, by calling the box office at 888-779-7703 or dropping by the theatre. Don’t miss your chance to experience this captivating play that promises to entertain and inspire.

Cast

Creative Team

About Lighthouse Festival
Lighthouse Festival is a charitable organization devoted to the development and production of new and existing Canadian plays. Lighthouse Festival strives to be artistically excellent, support and encourage local and regional artists, and be a source of enjoyment and pride in local communities while promoting local tourism. Located in two beautiful towns on Lake Erie, our theatres operate on a central policy of hospitality, accessibility, and affordability for all.

Media Contact
For media inquiries, cast interviews and further information, please contact:

Don Kearney-Bourque
Marketing & Communications Manager
Lighthouse Festival Theatre Corporation
don@lighthousetheatre.com
Direct: (226) 290-0070
Cell: (289) 541-7410