Stage Door News
Stage Door News
Created in 1961 by UNESCO, World Theatre Day is celebrated annually on March 27 by theatre communities across the globe. The goals are to: celebrate the power of theatre as an indispensable bridge-builder for mutual international understanding and peace. Also to promote and protect cultural diversity and identity in communities throughout the world.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of World Theatre Day. John Malkovich (award-winning stage director but better known for his Oscar-nominated film roles) issued this message:
“May your work be compelling and original. May it be profound, touching, contemplative, and unique. May it help us to reflect on the question of what it means to be human, and may that reflection be blessed with heart, sincerity, candor, and grace. May you overcome adversity, censorship, poverty and nihilism, as many of you will most certainly be obliged to do. May you be blessed with the talent and rigor to teach us about the beating of the human heart in all its complexity, and the humility and curiosity to make it your life’s work. And may the best of you — for it will only be the best of you, and even then only in the rarest and briefest moments — succeed in framing that most basic of questions, ‘how do we live?’ Godspeed.”
Malkovich’s message encourages theatre artists (as well as all artists) to return to basics. Why theatre? Why art? Why life?
World Theatre Day is an important occasion to celebrate live theatre right here in Collingwood. Theatre has a special role in the culture of a community by reflecting local identity. It has the power to inspire, entertain, educate and transform. Theatre creates images which can change people and the world we live in.
In 2012, professional producing company Theatre Collingwood, increases its summer season to four productions. Cautioning audiences with a Laughter Advisory, Artistic Director Steven Thomas promises four very different styles of comedy between July and September.
The season opens with Charles Ludlam’s THE MYSERY OF IRMA VEP (July 16-21). It’s a hilarious mile-a-minute spoof of the horror genre which makes fun of melodrama, farce, satire and Hitchcock. There’s a sympathetic werewolf, vampire, Egyptian mummy, mystery, even a murder or two!
Norm Foster’s hilarious ‘adult’ comedy SKIN FLICK (July 30 – August 4) follows. In the midst of an economic downturn, a regular, middle-aged couple suddenly lose their jobs. Panicked, they stumble upon the idea of producing an ‘adult movie’ to make ends meet.
The saucy farce, DO NOT DISTURB by Vern Thiessen (August 20-25) marks the seventh world premiere produced by Theatre Collingwood. Two upwardly mobile urban professionals criss-cross the globe to close deals. But does love stand a chance in a world ruled by technology and espionage?
The season concludes with Dan Needles’ most recent witty rural comedy WINGFIELD LOST & FOUND (September 17-22) starring Rod Beattie. Stockbroker turned farmer, Walt Wingfield, is in his 7th year 'on the land'. Persephone Township’s worst drought in 25 years brings him face to face with climate change and his ecological footprint.
Blue Mountain Resorts proudly returns as Season Sponsor. Production co-sponsors Scenic Caves & Scandinave Spa (Irma Vep) and Noble Insurance (Skin Flick) are joined by new supporters Scotiabank (Do Not Disturb) and Rogers TV (Wingfield Lost & Found).
The Ontario Trillium Foundation continues support of the Teen and the Adult Drama Training Programs as well as regional donor development.
Fifteen seasons at the artistic helm, Steven admits: “This is one of the most exciting years to date. 2012 is a year of revitalization. The world premiere of a new play by an award-winning Canadian author who is stretching the traditional farce style is an artistic challenge. Bringing all aspects of the company’s operations are under one roof in a year-round facility will allow us to increase our production capabilities. Our new Drama Training Programs for Teens and for Adults inspire all ages to engage in developing theatre skills. The new Production Centre location will provide a symbiotic cultural centre for the entire community to actively participate in.”
There are many ways to enjoy live summer theatre at an affordable cost. Discount Subscription Season packages offer savings of 21-25%, plus a bonus Dairy Queen treat card. Group discounts are $5 off each ticket (10 or more booked in advance, with one payment). Youth tickets are half-price, High School ages can purchase a $5 eyeGO ticket (with student card).
Many popular theatre packages are offered again this season. The “Georgian Bay Theatre Escape” at Blue Mountain Resort includes one theatre ticket plus a five-star quality accommodation experience beginning at $99- $114 per person (conditions apply).
Experience nature, relaxation and entertainment. Explore the great outdoors at Scenic Caves Nature Adventures, rejuvenate at Scandinave Spa, Blue Mountain and stimulate your imagination at a live Theatre Collingwood performance. Passes do not have to be used on the same day.
Complement your theatre evening with a three-course gourmet dinner (choose from special theatre menu) on the day of performance at The Stuffed Peasant restaurant, for an all-inclusive special price.
Theatre Collingwood has just moved the year-round Box Office to its new Production Centre, 65 Simcoe St. at the corner of Ste. Marie St. Contact information remains the same: (705) 445-2200 / 1 (866) 382-2200 / www.theatrecollingwood.com. After May 1st, tickets may be booked online 24 hours a day, via the website.
Theatre Collingwood’s summer performance location is the historic Gayety Theatre in downtown Collingwood.
Celebrate the world of theatre, right here at your doorstep!
2012-03-18
Collingwood: Theatre Collingwood celebrates World Theatre Day March 27