A Lower Mainland show-chorus is cementing its longstanding ties to New Westminster with the group’s spring production, Movie Magic, premiering at Massey Theatre this weekend.
The Maple Leaf Singers chorus was founded in 1968 by New West couple George and Marie Gillis. For decades, the Maple Leaf Singers have held their annual spring show at Massey Theatre and continue to be very active within the New West performance community. The charitable group relies on donations and ticket sales from their spring production to put on shows throughout the year, free of charge, at local community centres and seniors’ homes.
“One of our real joys is to bring music and entertainment to those who cannot get out to enjoy a show like ours at the theatre,” said Victoria Stratton, publicity coordinator for the Maple Leaf Singers. “In New West, we sing regularly at the care home Victoria Heights, where we aim to put a smile on the residents' faces!”
With Movie Magic, the group hopes to stir audiences’ emotions with choreographed renditions of iconic tunes from hit films, such as Singin’ In the Rain and Nice to Five. The spring show also includes music from Queen and Fleetwood Mac.
“Every year, we strive to put on a different show, a different theme, always lively, with a diverse program,” Stratton said.
The group, now 50 members strong, takes in new members in late August and again in the new year.
Tickets for Movie Magic’s two showing on Saturday, May 24 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, May 29 at 2:00 p.m. can be purchased from the Massey Theatre box office at 604-521-5050. Tickets are $20, or $10 for children.
