Theatrical talent was shining in the Northern Avalon this summer. Cupids 400 and New World Theatre’s Indeavour Stage provided “once in a lifetime” entertainment, in which local performers participated. At the same time, community theatre which has been growing over the past decade in the towns of Brigus and Bay Roberts was thriving.
Bay Roberts had three separate successful shows. A Time in Pigeon Inlet, a Newfoundland “time,” featuring singing, instrumental music, storytelling and sketches (based on Ted Russell’s Tales from Pigeon Inlet) is in its third season. Salt-water Moon, a drama, was on stage at the Victoria LOL#3 Museum and Playhouse, the second year for a David French play produced by Jerry Mercer and directed by Marc Warren. And, for the first time, An Evening with the Gosse Family (which featuring singing, instrumental music, and skits) was held at Lodge McKay.
In Brigus, The Royal Shag Up, a comedy with music, is in its 9th sold out season.
What is Special About These Shows?
All four shows are first class productions with talented performers that have been enjoyed and praised by audiences from all over Canada. However, what is special is that each of these shows has a direct connection with the area.
Bay Roberts Shows
A Time in Pigeon Inlet, (pigeoninlet.ca) which features Newfoundland and Labrador’s first tradition bearer, Kelly Russell, and his family, is built around the stories of Kelly’s father, Newfoundland author Ted Russell, who was born on Coley’s Point.
The Cast of “A Time in Pigeon Inlet”
More photos from “A Time in Pigeon Inlet” > >
Salt-water Moon was written by David French, who was also born in Coley’s Point. David French moved to Toronto as a child when his father went upalong to work, but his plays are steeped in the history and mythology of this area of the province. Characters speak of the Bay Roberts Railway Station, the Klondyke, the Kyle, and the Labrador fishery.
“Salt-water Moon” by David French
More photos from “Salt-water Moon” > >
victoriamuseumplayhouse.com
An Evening with the Gosse Family featured the Gosse girls, Sonya and Michele, who grew up in Bay Roberts, and their Dad, Lewis, who was a teacher at Ascension Collegiate for years.
Ged Backmore, who was in the audience, was moved by the Gosse rendition of his composition, “The Sea.” in three part harmony.
More photos from “An Evening with the Gosse Family” > >
Brigus Show
The Royal Shag Up has been collectively written over the years by the Baccalieu Players, people from the local region who act, sing and dance in the show.
The Cast of “A Royal Shag Up”
More photos from “A Royal Shag Up” > >
“Salt-water Moon” FREE September 24th and 25th during Canadian Culture Days.
And as a bottom line, you have another opportunity to see “Salt-water Moon” for FREE at the Victoria LOL #3 Museum and Playhouse during Culture Days, September 24-25. You will be amazed at how certain words and phrases jump to life because the play is in context. Most people who have seen several different productions of the show say this one has a different twist which you will thoroughly enjoy. Friday night’s show is being sponsored by Moores Andrews Collins Law Offices. Saturday night’s show is being sponsored by Ruth Brown of Clarke Real Estate, Pam Norman of Exit Realty, Churchill’s Home Hardware, and Harbour International.
Moon and stars in the sky.
Information about “Salt-water Moon” on the Culture Days Website > >
Fireworks in the Rain!
Yaffles of Services 