My third production for the Metro Theatre introduced me to whole new cast and crew. I was contacted by the Theatre Manager, Les Erskine, about a new production that was looking for a Stage Manager – one who was experienced and didn’t need any training. I guess that was me.
So, I discussed it with Alex and he gave me his go-ahead.
A Nice Family Gathering is a comedic drama that featured the talents of Harry Seddon (one of my favourite actors), Erin Miller, Eby Luking, the amazing Sue Sparling (who I have grown to love- miss working with her), Steven Charlton (so cute) and Johnny Gingell (another handsome devil who I loved working with).
My first read-through with this cast and director was one of the most entertaining evenings I had spent in a long time. After initial introductions, our glorious director, Nicky Anderton, set up a rousing game of sound-ball – a fun-filled exercise where cast members threw an imaginary ball at someone in the circle adding a unique sound. I sat this out as I was still not sure what to make of this but, I have to admit I enjoyed the exercise immensely.
It definitely spoke volumes to the commitments that this cast were prepared to do to make this show fun, entertaining and moving.
I also got to work with Max Reed, who along with Nicky made my time on this show very relaxed and entertaining.
We opened during the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver and so we were hard pressed to find our audience. Fortunately, we had great reviews and some excellent word of mouth for this show.
I took Alex to see this show about 1/2 way through the run. Normally, Alex enjoys the shows I work on but, they rarely move him the way this show did.
After the show, he insisted we go up to the Lounge and meet the cast. He went to each cast member, introduced himself and thanked them for making him cry (something he rarely does). It is definitely a testament to the story, the acting and the direction of the show.
It is definitely one of my more memorable shows.
Al Zylstra 