This week is bringing the close to one of my favourite production: Over the River and Through the Woods. This show has been a real labour of love for me. It has brought together an incredibly talented cast and crew. I am so happy to have worked with this group:
Don Briard – playing Frank
Not only did Don take on the role of Frank, Nick’s Maternal Grandfather, he also directed the entire production. Don is a multitasker par excellence. He designed the set, built the set, and created the “essence” of the entire production. I learned so much from him.
Joan Koebel – playing Emma
I have worked with Joan on a number of projects in the past including Calendar Girls and Crossing Delancey. This production, however, allowed Joan to really stretch her acting. Not only did she perfect the “Italian-American” Grandmother schtick, but, she also got to do a little singing and dancing. She definitely brought Emma, Nick’s paternal grandmother to life.
Daniele Methner – playing Caitlin
What a treat to work with Daniele. She made Caitlin her own. She brought a gentle humour and a joyful essence to her character. Her line about calling Nick an “asshole” always brings me such joy and laughter!
Mike Parker – Playing Nunzio
I have never had the pleasure of working with Mike before and I really hope that this show isn’t the last time. Mike’s ability to channel Nunzio, Nick’s paternal grandfather, a curmudgeonly gentle soul makes this production!
Sheila Keating – playing Emma
Sheila brings such empathy and joy to her portrayal of Emma, Nick’s maternal grandmother. Her ability to make everything a reason to eat embodies what a grandmother should be…
Adam Arki as Nick
You would never know that Adam has never worked in theatre before. His portrayal of Nick, a driven corporate executive in marketing, shows us all that we need to take a little time to explore the world we live in and seize opportunity when it is presented, even if that opportunity is given to us by our grandparents.
I urge you to try and see this show before it closes tomorrow.
Al Zylstra 