The latest offering from the community theatre group Driftwood Players blends a mix of beginners and experienced in the cast of a comical play by Kenneth Ludwig, Lend Me a Tenor, opening at the Heritage Playhouse March 16.
The audience will recognize many of the performers. Remember the dapper scarecrow (Greg Stewart) and the eager realtor (Susan Rule) from last season's pantomime? The tenors of the title, Brian Harbison and Todd Alain, are also well known to Coast audiences.Director Barbara McColl brings renewed energy to her task; in her teaching days in Vancouver she has directed over 50 plays. She and assistant director Bob Hunt, recently arrived from Ottawa, hold over 30 years each of theatre experience. McColl, who was first seen in one of the Farndale follies of 2002, is no stranger to farce. The format can be a challenge for actors and stage managers since the timing and pacing is crucial.This farce centres around the diva antics of Il Stupendo, the famous tenor, who is abruptly put out of commission to the near hysteria of his entourage, who are relying on the tenor's performance for their income. The concert promoter (John O. Smith) must pull a rabbit out of a hat or, in this case, a tenor out of the closet. Maybe Max can save the day (played by Todd Alain, last seen at Peninsula Players dinner theatre). Or maybe it will be the singing bellhop (Greg Stewart) who so wants to be a star. Maybe the tenor's glamorous wife (Marcia Forst) will talk him into performing and not trifling with the promoter's daughter (Trish Atkinson).
Susan Rule, last seen in pantomime, has had over 12 years professional experience on stage and backstage in the production of everything from opera to rock concerts. Trish Atkinson has also been active backstage helping with costumes, then in her new acting role. For this show, the flamboyant 1930s costumes will be made by designer Lynda Carlson, with volunteer help.
Newcomer Pat Carswell is on a learning curve with her first ever stage performance as Julia, the chair of the opera guild.
"Not even a high school production," she says, but she considers herself in good hands with Driftwood.The play opens Thursday, March 16, and runs on weekends through to April 1. Tickets for $12 are at Coast Books and Talewind Books and Hallmark Cards.
