The Vagabond Players' season-closing production is earning rave reviews from local audiences.
Just received a note from Elizabeth Elwood - well-known local author and playwright - letting us know that the current production of The Winslow Boy made a hit at its opening gala.
The play, based on a real historic event in preFirst World War England, explores a father's struggle to establish his son's innocence after the boy is accused of stealing and expelled from the Royal Naval Academy.
"The Vagabond Players' production, ably directed by Johnny Duncan, is visually attractive and utterly engaging as it brings this appealing classic play to life," wrote Elwood, noting she heard great feedback from audience members.
Among the standout performances are Mike and Adrian Jones, the real-life father and son playing Arthur and Ronnie Winslow, alongside Nancy Ebert as the young boy's mother.
Gina Raye Young earns special mention for her outstanding performance as Catherine Winslow, the daughter whose engagement is threatened by the publicity surrounding the trial.
Other strong performances come from Chris Fofonoff as her fiancé, Gavin LeClaire as the lawyer who handles the case, Kris Michaleski as brother Dicky, Alison MainTourneur as the family's longtime parlourmaid and Rob Stover as a family friend - with cameos by Isabel Mendenhall and Rob Larsen as a reporter and photographer.
The production is on at the Bernie Legge Theatre until June 23, with shows Thursday to Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m.
Tickets are $15, with a $2 discount for seniors and students. Book by emailing reservations@ vagabondplayers.ca or call 604-521-0412.
CABARET FOR PRIDE
This one came to my attention on Facebook, and I thought I'd get the word out there so everyone has a chance to check it out.
You're invited to enjoy a cabaret evening on Saturday, June 16 in support of the Royal City Pride Society and Surrey Pride Society.
The show, which is taking to the stage at the Columbia Theatre at 8 p.m., features a night of drag, burlesque, stand-up comedy and more. It's for ages 19 and up.
The show is hosted by Mz. Adrien and includes drag performances by Taylor Mayd, Celestial Seasons, Jill Richards, Kiki Lawhore, Ilene Dover, Mona Lee and Mimi Michel, with burlesque by Cecilia Bravo and comedy by Robyn Daye Edwards - plus some promised surprises.
There will also be a silent auction.
You can purchase tickets online at www.lafflines. com/reservations.html.
You can also buy at the Columbia Theatre, 530 Columbia St., or call 604-522-4500.
Doors will open at 7 p.m. Want to know more? Search for New Westminster Price on Facebook.
Do you have an item for Lively City? Send arts and entertainment ideas to Julie MacLellan, jmaclellan@royal cityrecord.com. You can also follow her on Twitter, @juliemaclellan, or check out her blog at www.royalcity record.com.
