Gallery 7 Theatre & Performing Arts

Catching Up/Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

2009-05-29T17:12:00.000-07:00

Wow, it's been quite some time since last I wrote...I got to get better at these blog things...

I was away on vacation these past couple of weeks - seems kind of strange to leave mid-way through the production process, but we've got an expert team working on things and they proved to be very capable of carrying on with out me.

Where did I go? Nice of you to ask....a buddy and I took two weeks to explore the South Western United States. The trip included stops in Vegas, NV (no, didn't win anything - didn't play either actually...) Tucson, AZ, Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Zion National Park and finally, Yellowstone National Park. It was a lot to fit in to one trip, but neither of us felt rushed. We traveled at just the right pace.

This trip wasn't an arts excursion, though we did have the privilege of seeing one of 6 or 7 Cirque Du Soleil shows currently playing in Vegas. Mystere was the show of choice, and while the ticket price was substantial, the production was definitely worth seeing.

I had never been to a Cirque show before and I found there to be some pretty amazing stuff - I was surprised to see how many individuals are involved in a single performance. Funny thing, though - during the performance it was difficult to focus on any one thing. Being a producer of theatre myself, I found myself switching between watching the performers and checking out all the cool technical stuff like the lighting and the massive stage floor that could split in three and raise and lower as necessary. Lots of color, lots of spectacle, some good humor thrown in - a pretty incredible event.

Back at home, after getting over the shock about how two weeks goes by so fast that you don't even feel you've been gone, work has been ongoing to get our very own spectacle on the boards.

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe opens June 5 and runs to the 20th at the MEI Theatre. This week is tech week, a time where all the technical elements, from set to costumes to lights to props come together. This is definitely one of our more ambitious productions in that we've brought on a number of extra personnel to bring C.S. Lewis' tale to life.

Derek Ward-Hall - remember him? He was the young man in Crossing Delancey. Well, he's also a bit of a sword fighting afficienado and he's bringing his expertise to the show by helping us bring the big epic battle near the end of the play to life. We've also brought back Andrew Potts to do some original music, and Maureen Keyes, who played the T.V. producer's assistant in The Family Man, has provided her dance skills to choreograph the many scene changes.

Joyce Chung, our director, is very passionate about the story, and it has shown in her leadership thoughout the design and rehearsal process. Dustin Froese is back, looking after the set design, and he's put together a pretty impressive environment that will utilize projections, as well as some really tall monoliths. And of course, Joanne Abraham is putting together a really cool lighting design and Rick Havinga is working hard at the complex sound design.

Now, there's no way we can compete with any movie version of this story, so we've worked to bring our own, unique take on the tale. In true theatrical fashion, audiences will be invited to use their imaginations - the very thing that I like about theatre so much. Funny thing - the "less is more" axiom truly applies here - the more work you do for the audience, the less satisfying the end result. The less you do, and by focussing on creating the key elements that gently help the audience along, the more room there is for the imagination to run wild.

The play is a great family event - lots of action, some spectacle, and lots of little nuggets of truth to talk about. There are some very powerful images in the production as well and may frighten some very young children, but I invite you all to come out and see this magical tale unfold on the Gallery 7 Theatre stage. Here's the info:

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
Adapted by Joseph Robinette from C.S. Lewis' Novel

June 5 & 6, 11 - 13, 18 - 20, 2009 @ 7:30 PM
Discount Matinees: June 6 & 13 at 2:00 PM

MEI Theatre
4081 Clearbrook Road, Abbotsford

Tickets - House of James: 604-852-3701

To watch a video preview of what the cast has been working on, check out our website at www.gallery7theatre.com.

2009 "Imagine" Gala

2009-04-08T13:24:00.000-07:00

April 24, 2009
6:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Ramada Inn & Conference Centre
36035 North Parallel Road, Abbotsford, B.C.

To order tickets online, please click here. To purchase tickets by phone, please call 604-504-5940.

Imagine...
A vibrant, full-time community theatre that produces entertaining and inspiring plays

Imagine...
A dedicated theatre space with room for performance, education and more.

Imagine...
Making a dream a reality

Imagine...
Gallery 7 Theatre's fundraising gala dinner is an opportunity for you to be a part of making this dream come true. For more than 18 years, Gallery 7 Theatre has produced quality performances for this community. We want to continue to do that and become a theatre hub that will be known in the Fraser Valley and beyond as the place to go for creative and engaging theatre.

Join us for an evening of great food, amazing music and performance that will be sure to entertain and inspire you and your friends.

PERFORMERS:

MC - Cliff Prang

J.D. Miner

Nelson Boschman Trio

Crystal Hicks...plus story-telling and much more.

TICKET INFORMATION:

To order tickets online, please click here.

$95/ticket & $180/couple.$40 from each ticket is tax receiptable - helping Gallery 7 Theatre make its dreams come true.

For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact our office at 604-504-5940 or email info@gallery7theatre.com.

Musings from the Gallery 7 Theatre EAD (Executive Artistic Director)

2009-03-01T22:46:00.000-08:00

The Family Man Set to Open this Week!

I trust that you've already marked your March calendars to take in our latest production, The Family Man, which opens this week Friday (March 6) and runs until March 21. In my mind, this play is sort-of a cross between Leave it to Beaver, Home Improvement, and Mr Mom. Remember those shows?

Anyway, The Family Man is a 1950's comedy that explores the changing perceptions of gender roles and discovering what you're truly good at. The production is going to be a lot of fun - there are plenty of laughs, and the production features some of the best performers in the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley.

The story goes something like this:

What happens when an athletic, but accident-prone father breaks his leg while playing with his sons and the mother is forced to go back to work to bring home the bacon? Complete, hilarious and charming mayhem! Mom reconnects with her love for working in the business world while Dad takes on the chaotic responsibilities of keeping the household together. Things really come to a head when Dad, under his wife’s name, enters his own cookie recipe into a T.V. contest and wins the big $50,000 prize.

Now, you might be thinking that since this play takes place in the 1950's, it's going to be all smaultzy and cheezy. Think again - we're definitely trying to capture the essence of a 50's sitcom ('cause that's just plain fun to do), but I think you'll find that the characters are three dimensional, the relationships are real, and that there's plenty of food for thought to spark some lively discussion at the dinner table or at the local coffee shop.

The overall premise of the play is pretty zany, but that's where the fun is and what produces so many great laughs. Ironically, the play is timely too - the family in this story is facing some tough economic times, but rather than letting fear lull them in to inaction, they rise to the occassion and venture in to unexplored territory, finding a greater sense of satisfaction in their new found roles.

I think you'll really enjoy The Family Man - it's light-hearted, it's fun, and it's got some great nuggets of truth. Get your family together, some friends, a special someone and come on out. Tickets are available right now at House of James - 2743 Emerson Street or call 604-852-3701.

Some Thoughts About the Economy...

There's been a lot of doom and gloom talk in the news lately about the economy. People are closing their wallets, tightening the purse strings, and hunkering down for the long haul.

It's hard to say whether Gallery 7 is being affected by the financial storm at this point, but we are certainly not taking things for granted. We've seen administrative costs go up and we've had some unexpected purchases that have put a real strain on our cash flow. I won't lie - it's been a stressful, challenging time for us.

But we are rising to the occassion - to continue offering a quality playbill of theatre that lifts our hearts, challenges our minds, and nourishes our souls. We are determined to continue offering an uplifting and affirming place where artists can truly express themselves by using their God-given talents to bring to life stories that inspire, encourage and provoke.

I'd like to encourage you all to continue supporting the arts in our community, and in particular, our little theatre. Despite the economic woes, we all still need to laugh, to hear good stories, to be inspired, and to feed the heart, the soul & the mind. Live theatre offers all this and a place where the community can come together to share in a collective experience that takes us out of ourselves and leads us to new understanding.

You don't have to go to Vancouver to experience quality theatre - it's right here on your doorstop. The best part is you don't have to shell out huge bucks for a great night of entertainment with friends and family. Our ticket prices offer some of the best deals in town. There are plenty of other options available too: if the price for a single ticket to an evening show doesn't tickle your fancy, don't stay home and watching the boob-tube. You deserve better than that! Why not take take in a wallet-friendly matinee performance or better still, get a group of ten or fifteen or twenty and take advantage of our special group rates. You can enjoy live theatre without it draining your limited budget.

Busy Times...

For me personally, it's been an extremely busy time working in theatre. Not only am I busy collaborating with our production team to bring you a fun play for and about the family, I'm also polishing off some work on a lighting design for UFV's production of Hamlet.

As some of you know, UFV Theatre is my old educational stomping ground. It's been great returning as a visiting artist and now a colleague of former teachers & students. The play features some truly great acting talent from both students and community performers, as well as wonderful costumes, a most excellent set, and, if I may say so myself, some pretty cool lighting. Hamlet, considered one of Shakespeare's greatest plays, runs March 6 - 22 at the UFV Theatre on the Chilliwack Campus. Call the box office at 604-795-2814 or 604-504-7441, local 2814.

If you're looking for a great musical to attend, I suggest you keep an eye-out for MEI Secondary School's spring production of The Music Man by Meredith Willson. Okay, so I am also directing this production in and amongst the myriad of other things so it bears mentioning, right? The play will feature a cast of close to thirty highly talented students, as well as sets and costumes designed and built by students, former students and staff members. The stops are always pulled out for a show at the secondary school so make sure you check it out - it runs April 30 - May 9.

Last thing - reserve April 24th on your calendars so you can attend the first ever Gallery 7 Theatre Fundraising Gala event entitled, Imagine. A celebration of what has been, what is, and what could be, the 2009 Gala will offer great food, entertainment and a super-quality silent-auction. This event will be held at the Ramada Inn in Abbotsford. As you can see, the stops coming out - this is going to be one eloquent and fun night you won't want to miss. And, you'll have a chance to help us raise $10,000 to keep the Gallery 7 dream alive. More details to come...

That's it for now - hope to see you at the theatre!

Ken Hildebrandt
Executive Artistic Director
Gallery 7 Theatre & Performing Arts

G7 Update...

2009-02-11T15:28:00.000-08:00

I would love to spend more time keeping this blog up to date as I think it can be a great way to stay in touch, talk about artsy stuff and maybe dig a little deeper in to the Gallery 7 experience...

Here's are couple of things I'm hoping to see happen on this blog:

I'd like to write a history of our theatre - all 18 years of it - the plays, the people, the accomplishments. Maybe even share a photo or two. Quite the blast to the past.

I'd like to post people's first-hand experiences either working on one of our shows or attending one of the 50+ productions we've produced over time. It's part of the G7 experience we introduced. Theatre is about community and what better way to experience this than to find out how people have been affected by their time here at Gallery 7 Theatre.

In the meantime, we put a wrap on Crossing Delancey. What an adorable, warm-hearted theatre experience that was. We had some reasonable crowds and excellent word of mouth, but I'm saddened that many did not get to experience this gem of a show. I congratulate the entire cast and crew for lifting our spirits.

At Crossing Delancey, we started the G7 Experience - an exhibition of our history through photos. We're going to expand this over time to include info on how people can get involved with the G7 community. Look for more great photos when you come out to The Family Man in March.

We also launched the Billboard Top 100. This is a fund-raising effort inviting 100 individuals to donate $100 to meet our target of $10,000 by June 30, 2009. Money raised through this effort will help deal with growing budgets while providing us the opportunity to dream big for the future. If you'd like to help us in this endeavor, please call us at 604-504-5940 or email info@gallery7theatre.com. We'd appreciate your help as we've had some unexpected bills hit us this past January, thanks to computer and printer problems. We also want to set aside some money for a contingency fund so we can get through the hard times, but with operational commitments, it's difficult enough just to meet our expenses. Keep the dream alive! Donations above $10 are eligible for a tax deductible receipt.

Our next workshop is Stage Make-Up: Level II, an exploration of more advanced make-up techniques such as aging, beards and scars. You can register at http://www.gallery7theatre.com/ or give us a call at 604-504-5940.

Well, that's a quick update. Right now, rehearsals are well underway for The Family Man, and pre-production is already underway for our final production of the season, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Hope to see you at both these plays!

Ken Hildebrandt
Executive Artistic Director

Crossing Delancey: Pure, Romantic Fun

2009-01-29T17:38:00.000-08:00

People are loving the latest production of Crossing Delancey, and if you haven't yet made plans to see it, make sure you book it in your calendar and get some tickets.

Okay, so I'm really proud of this show, and of course, I'm the biased Artistic Director eager to promote the show and get people in the seats, but, we've had really great responses from people coming out the door, and I want to make sure you don't won't miss out on all the fun.

Since I'm at it, though, I may as well share a few more reasons why you should see Crossing Delancey:

It's affordable. No big drive to Vancouver to see quality theatre.

It's funny. You'll laugh. Alot! And who doesn't like to laugh?

It's warm-hearted, intelligent and clean.

It's a play both the gals AND the guys will get a kick out of.

It's plain, ole fashioned fun.

Get your friends and family together and have a great night out at the theatre. You won't regret it. I'm sure of it......

Runs: January 29 - 31, February 5 - 7 @ 7:30 PM
Discount Matinee: Jan. 31 @ 2:00 PM

MEI Theatre, 4081 Clearbrook Road, Abbotsford.
Tickets - House of James: 604-852-3701.
www.gallery7theatre.com/

P.S. If you've already seen the show, please tell us what you think. There's a poll on the sidebar of this blog on the left or simply respond to this post. Let's chat....

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

2008-12-24T13:05:00.000-08:00

First of all, I'd like to wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year! May you experience the joy of the season and the peace that passes understanding.

It's been a while since I've posted here - I need to get more active on this whole bloggin thing...but in keeping with the spirit of the season, I thought I would share a few photos from when Gallery 7 Theatre participated in MSA Museum's "A Christmas Carol" event at Trethewey House.

A few performers from G7 dressed in 1800's garb to meet and greet visitors to the museum on December 20. Special thanks to Richard & Karen Toots, Lindsey Huntington, Kim Larson and Tamara Charman for their great performances as characters straight from the Dicken's novel. Gerwyn Mills joined our troupe to take on the role of Scrooge and Gary & Elva Atha coordined the costumes. Photos were submitted by Linda McRae of the MSA Museum.

Next Workshop: Stage Make-Up Level 1

2008-11-19T16:59:00.001-08:00

Gallery 7 Theatre & Performing Arts presents

2008/2009 Workshop Series
Stage Make-Up: Level 1

November 26, 2008; 7PM—10PM

MEI Secondary School
4081 Clearbrook Road, Abbotsford

Register online here.

Actors, teachers and aspiring make-up artists will have the opportunity to brush up on their make-up skills by taking part in Gallery 7 Theatre’s latest workshop offering, Stage Make-Up Level I. Lead by professional make-up designer, Gail Ruginis of Cloverdale, the three-hour course will explore the basics of stage make-up application and design.

The course will also give an excellent overview of the make-up artist’s tool-kit, his/her responsibilities, and the supplies required for completing a professional-looking design. Actors, teachers and community theatre practitioners will benefit greatly from this unique course, providing both beginners and veterans an excellent opportunity to expand their individual and professional skills portfolio.

Leading the workshop is Gail Ruginis of Cloverdale, B.C. Ruginis’ stage and film makeup career spans many years. She regularly conducts workshops and seminars and is consulted on a regular basis. She is a certified instructor for Dinair Airbrush Systems Inc. of California and is the Key Makeup Artist for Dave Chalk - Connected, seen weekly on Shaw and KVOS television. Film and TV productions include Roger's Cable Award Winning docudrama, The Earthquake Zone and Highway of Heartache, as well as commercials and Vancouver Film School student productions.

Ruginis was previously the Director of Makeup for the Royal City Musical Theatre. Over the last 14 years, she has keyed over 60 productions including the RCMT productions of Fiddler on the Roof, Oliver, The King and I, among many others. She has also been responsible for the makeup for casts ranging in number from 1 - 75 per show and for venues having 75 - 1200 seats. She has been providing makeup and hair styling services for over 30 years.

Stage Make-Up: Level I is scheduled for November 26, 2008, 7PM – 10 PM, at the MEI Secondary School, 4081 Clearbrook Road, Abbotsford. It is the first of two workshops to be hosted by Gallery 7 Theatre on the subject. The second, Stage Make-Up: Level II, to be held mid-February, will explore more advanced make-up design applications including scarring and aging.

Cost of Stage Make-Up Level I is $30.00 plus GST or $54.00 plus GST for both Level I and Level II. For more information or to register, please call Gallery 7 Theatre at 604-504-5940 or go online to the society’s website at www.gallery7theatre.com.

Huckleberry Finn - Video Trailer

2008-11-04T23:33:00.000-08:00

Check out the trailer for our upcoming production of Adventures of Huckleberry Finn:

See you at the play!

New Video Introduces Gallery 7 Theatre Season

2008-10-27T18:31:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone;

I'm very excited to show you our new, flashy video promotion of our 2008/2009 "Adventure of a Lifetime" Theatre season. Check it out:

Season passes are still available but time is running out! Save big money by purchasing all four productions in our season. For more information, check out the details here: http://www.gallery7theatre.com/content/view/24/42/

See you at the theatre.

Ken Hildebrandt
Executive/Artistic Director

Workshop - Lighting Production & Design

2008-10-07T16:00:00.001-07:00

There’s an old saying that says, “If you can’t see them, you can’t hear them”. In other words, even the best performance is no performance at all if it isn’t lit properly. Stage lighting is a crucial part of any stage production or Sunday morning service, yet it is probably one of the least understood of all the technical aspects of a performance hall or church.

In Lighting Production & Design, workshop leader, Ken Hildebrandt, will take both aspiring and experienced lighting technicians on a four-hour exploratory journey that will examine all aspects of stage lighting at an introductory and intermediate level.

The course will look at some of the most common lighting instruments in use today along with an exploration of some of their practical applications. The workshop will also include training on how to use a lighting control console as well as discussions on how to develop an effective lighting plot that can be used for a variety of applications. A key feature of the course will be hands-on opportunities to work with various lighting equipment. Lighting Production and Design is perfect for school, church and community theatre technicians.

Leading the workshop is Gallery 7 Theatre’s Executive/Artistic Director, Ken Hildebrandt. Hildebrandt is the founding Executive/Artistic Director of Gallery 7 Theatre in Abbotsford. He is no stranger to lighting design, having worked on several productions for UFV Theatre and for Gallery 7 Theatre including Under Milkwood, A Winter’s Tale and the award-winning production of Driving Miss Daisy.

At the Theatre BC FVZ Festival in 2006, he received a special award for his design of Aldyth Morris’, Damien. His next lighting project will be UFV’s production of Hamlet in March of 2009. Ken is also a producer, director and actor, having most recently performed in Cotton Patch Gospel. He is currently directing Gallery 7 Theatre’s production of Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.

Lighting Design & Production will be held on Saturday, October 18, from 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM at the MEI Secondary School Theatre, 4081 Clearbrook Road, Abbotsford. Cost is $40.00 (+ GST) and interested individuals can register by calling 604-504-5940 or by going online to the Gallery 7 Theatre website at www.gallery7theatre.com.

Updates from the G7 world...

2008-09-24T10:32:00.001-07:00

Panic Squad Kicks Things Off...

Panic Squad did a great job this past Friday evening, entertaining audiences with their unique brand of comedy improv while helping us kick off our 2008/2009 "Adventure of a Lifetime" theatre season with a bang. It's always great having these guys around as they add that most excellent extra touch to our season. This year, Panic Squad was up against some very tough competition - the annual MCC sale. This was an unfortunate over-sight on my part in planning the schedule. While we had a good crowd out, I think people were forced to make a tough choice and we definitely want to support our friends at the MCC in the future. Note to self for next year's plan...

2008-2009 Season Passes the Best Deal in Town...

Season passes are available right up to November 7. If you've never purchased passes before, let me tell you about a couple of advantages to doing so:

You save money - to the tune of 15% off regular ticket prices. That leaves extra dollars in your pocket, thus maximizing the effectiveness of your entertainment budget.
You purchase at one time. With a season pass, you don't have to worry about purchasing tickets for each individual show. It's a one time deal - no extra phone calling and worrying whether you're going to miss one of the productions.
You don't have to pick your dates ahead of time. With a season pass, you don't have to pick dates ahead of time. You simply show up for each production on the night that's most convenient for you. It's guaranteed seating every time.
You help Gallery 7 - late summer and early fall are tough months financially for Gallery 7 as we gear up for the season. There's not a lot of cash flow so when you purchase a season pass, you help us get the season underway with a much needed injection of cash.

Convinced? Season passes are your ticket to the "Adventure of a Lifetime". Give us a call at 604-504-5940 or check out our website at http://www.gallery7theatre.com/ for more info.

Gallery 7 Theatre is Open for Business...

If you are a corporation with a passion for the arts and are looking for unique marketing opportunities or the ability to spread goodwill in our community, we should chat. Gallery 7 Theatre has some great corporate partnership opportunities that can help you meet your community investment and marketing goals. Even if you own a small business that's just starting out, we can work together to improve your exposure in the community and bring business to your store! Give us a call at 604-504-5940 - let's see how we can work together.

2008/2009 Workshop Series...

If you're looking to brush up your skills in either acting or technical theatre or both, we've got a great line-up of workshops sure to help in your pursuit of growth. For you actors, we've got a six-week workshop lead by Shannon Braithwaite starting tonight that will explore more advance skills in acting, including Shakespeare. We've also got workshops in Improvisation, Voice & Movement and Stage Make-Up coming up as well! For you techies, we've got a Lighting Production and Design workshop coming up in October. Check out all the details on our website at http://www.gallery7theatre.com/

Glass Planet Studios to Produce Video Featurettes

We'd like to officially welcome Glass Planet Studios to our elite group of corporate sponsors. Glass Planet Studios is lead by Eldon Letkeman, who last appeared on our stage in The Boys Next Door. Eldon will be producing a featurette on each production in our 2008/2009 theatre season. These videos will be available to view through our website, this blog and to members of our Facebook group.

This is all part of an effort to bring a more exciting and friendly face to our theatre and more interactivity to our website. With these featurettes, people will get a chance to go behind the scenes of each production to see how all the pieces come together to create a magical theatre experience. Featurettes will include interviews with production staff and actors as well as a preview of what to expect for each show. The first video, highlighting the entire season, should be up early October...

Well, I think that's it for now. Don't forget to purchase your season passes today...you won't want to miss out on the adventure.

Ken Hildebrandt
Executive/Artistic Director

A new season is upon us...

2008-09-10T15:32:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been a while, hasn't it?

This past summer, we at Gallery 7 have been busy getting ready for the upcoming "Adventure of a Lifetime" theatre season, finishing up our fourth annual Summer Drama Camp program (which saw a whopping 80 kids come out!) and taking some much needed time off.

However....

We're back in the throws of things: casting is now complete for our fall production of Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, season passes are now available at specially reduced rates (check out all the details at http://www.gallery7theatre.com/) and we have Panic Squad coming up on September 19th...it's gonna be a great celebration of theatre - hope you make it out...

Some thoughts on theatre....

I've been thinking quite a bit about what theatre is and what attracts me to this unique, and rather odd art form. When I was in elementary school, I went to see a play at MEI Secondary (interesting how life comes full circle - now I'm directing the spring production at the school and Gallery 7 is based there...) and I was intrigued how the actors were able to make people laugh. There was something about that that was really, really cool....

As the years went on, I participated in a few high school productions, working behind the scenes. What I really wanted to do was act on stage, but because the productions were musicals, I shied away. (Interesting too how I just recently performed in Cotton Patch Gospel, even singing a great big solo...hmmmm).

I got my chance to perform onstage finally in Grade 11 & 12 and I was hooked. During those years, we would attend drama festivals and I remember being fascinated by the spectacle of theatre - the lights, the costumes, the sets...how these elements could be used sparingly yet creatively to tell a story...it was magic.

I continued my studies of theatre in college, taking classes, acting on stage, helping back stage and, by and by, starting a small drama team in a local church we called Gallery 7 Theatre Troupe. Working with Gallery 7 (or G7 as some of us liked to call it) was a chance to directly influence the shaping of a performance piece. The attraction to the aesthetic quality of theatre pushed me forward as I sought to satisfy that strange need within to create magic, to perform, and to somehow communicate with an audience.

Eighteen years have passed, and the drive to do theatre remains. Yes, some of that drive still stems from a weakness within to be affirmed by others by being the centre of attention. However, as I move forward in my career in this zany business, I discover more and more about the deeper power this art form possesses.

I've discovered that theatre is not just about the performance. The performance is the means by which we create a moment - an experience. The lights, the sound, the set, the costumes and the actors all work together to create this magical 'event'.

I've discovered that theatre is about community - people coming together to hear and to experience a story be told. The performer/audience interaction influences each and every performance, making each show completely and totally unique, something that has never before been experienced nor ever will be experienced again. Actors, crew members, designers and directors come together and form a powerful, albeit temporary, power-house team, bonding together in the pursuit of a common goal: to create the best theatre experience possible.

I've discovered that theatre is alive; it has a soul and a spirit so to speak. Living, breathing actors "put on" their characters and play out a story created by a playwright. The results, to me anyway, seem so much more real then what I experience on celluloid. The spoken word has so much more impact, is so much more shocking, so much more in my face. The performance impacts me differently than a movie.

I've discovered that theatre seeks to explore and reveal truth - in all its beauty and all its gritty, ugly reality. Theatre questions, probes, examines....I've discovered that to produce truly effecting theatre, you must be willing to deal with themes and issues that are uncomfortable. Somehow, by moving out of our comfort zones, we are better people for it - having been challenged, shaken up, and moved to think differently.

I've discovered that theatre, when directed so, is an act of worship to God, our creator, who made us in our image. When we create, we reflect our Maker, the one who endowed us with the ability to create and 'make something out of nothing'. That is an act of worship.

I've discovered that theatre is just plain fun. It's entertaining, it engages, it inspires the imagination, it encourages community....there is life in theatre. I look forward to discovering more about this strange, invigorating art form...

What fascinates you about theatre? What draws you in? Share your stories about this gift of God that allows us to tap into our emotions, our intellect, our spirit, our creativity, our imagination...

2008/2009 "Adventure of a Lifetime" Season Announced!

2008-07-04T20:25:00.000-07:00

Recently, Gallery 7 Theatre announced the 2008/2009 "Adventure of a Liftetime" theatre season. We felt it was time to do something a little different while still providing a playbill that would have wide appeal to Fraser Valley audiences.

So, we're gonna head south down the Mississippi River with Huck Finn, through the cosmopolitan streets of New York for a little romance, then over to a quiet 1950's suburb for a little family time, and then stop off in the magical world of Narnia. Hope you'll join us! Maybe you want to audition - there are a ton of parts for people of all ages. Or, perhaps you'd prefer to experience the adventure from the comfort of a theatre chair - season tickets at special rates are now available online!

Check out all the details at our website at www.gallery7theatre.com. Have a great weekend!

Ken Hildebrandt
Executive Artistic Director

Canada Day Parade

2008-07-04T20:06:00.000-07:00

Anyone around the Abbotsford area who attended this year's Canada Day parade would have seen a number of Gallery 7 Theatre volunteers and staff standing on a float and waving to the crowds in celebration of this nation's birthday. This was our first time participating in the Canada Day Parade and boy, did we have fun!

It was great to see our volunteers get into the spirit by dressing up in period costumes and as ushers. We handed out over 700 candies and that only got us as far Earl's, which was about the half-way point of the parade route. Boy, were they popular with the little kids and the not-so-little kids!

Also, it was great to see many of you Gallery 7 fans out in the crowd, and all the friends, family and colleagues. Good times...A great time was had by all - what an awesome opportunity to introduce our theatre to the community.

Special thanks go to my brother Rob for supplying the truck and trailer, to Sarah and Shelley (recuperated yet from the hike, yet Shelley?) for coming up with ideas to match this year's Heritage Theme, and to Anthony, Debbie and Husband, Sherman, Richard, Chloe, Trudy, Stacey and Pierre for helping out. Photos by Tim Lewis.

Things are heating up at Gallery 7 Theatre!

2008-06-06T13:55:00.000-07:00

Cotton Patch Gospel opens in 1 Week!

The set is up and being painted, the lights have been hung, gelled, and focused, costumes are nearly done and...we have a week before we open!

I'm very excited to be a part of this production - what a delight it has been to get back on stage after a substantial hiatus and to work with such a talented group of musicians/performers. I'm thrilled to be working with Dr. Lloyd Arnett of TWU Drama, who's bringing an expert directorial touch to this show, and it's so great to have Heather Robertson (set design), Joanne Abraham (lighting design) and Dani Rebain (costume design) add their personal artistic touches to the show. I'm happy to welcome new-comer Nicola Prigge to the Gallery 7 fold as our stage manager. Most importantly, it's so much fun re-telling the Gospel story in so unique and special way.

Okay, have I gushed enough? I trust that all the excitement, enthusiasm and fun we're having as a team transfers to enthusiastic and receptive audiences. I think Cotton Patch Gospel will not only be a highly entertaining and insightful theatre experience, but also an opportunity to open up a new door of understanding to the Gospel Story.

You know, it is kind of strange to be playing the role of Jesus, but as I go through rehearsals, I find myself being re-introduced to Him in small, but refreshing ways. Ever so often, I experience a little touch of the loving Heavenly Father. I feel, in my own human way, just a little of how God wants to powerfully reach in to our lives.

Yet, I am challenged by how Jesus was not afraid to confront that which was wrong, to put others ahead of himself. He's what I aspire to be as a man, as His child - loving, merciful...and willing and able to confront that which is wrong with truth and love. Yet, as I ponder this, trying to share with you something that is a bit more personal, I know that I've got a long ways to go - my laziness tends to stand in the way of pursuing Jesus. I want Cotton Patch Gospel to be more than just a show - I want it to be an experience that touches lives. Including my own....

Advance tickets seem to be selling well, so make sure you jump on board and take part of this historical event. Call 604-852-3701 to book your tickets.

Summer Drama Blast 2008: July 7 - 25, 2008.

Families are already enrolling their kids and teens in this year's Summer Drama Blast 2008 program. This is a great opportunity for parents to help young people get in touch with their creative sides and to explore the dramatic arts in a affirming environment.

We've got camps for every age group:

Creative Explosions (Ages 5 - 7)
Dramatic Rumblings (Ages 8 - 10)
Stage Eruptions (Ages 11 - 13)
Dynamite Playmakers (Ages 14 - 16)

Plus, there's an exciting line-up of topic specific camps for teens:

Musical Detonations (NEW! - Ages 13 - 18)

Boomin' Shakespeare (Ages 13 - 18)

Improv Break-Out (Ages 13 - 18)

Tech Blast (Ages 13 - 18)

You can now register online - a big relief, I think, to many since you no longer have to come in to our office at inconvenient times. Check out all the details for Summer Drama Blast 2008 at http://www.gallery7theatre.com/content/view/78/1/

2008/2009 Theatre Season

Gallery 7 Theatre fans will be thrilled to know that I intend to announce Gallery 7 Theatre's 18th, "Adventure of a Lifetime" Theatre Season on June 13th at the opening night reception of Cotton Patch Gospel. Season Passes will be available for purchase shortly after...

I'm pretty thrilled about what we've got in store for next year...needless to say, there will be plenty of opportunity for involvement both on and off-stage and I think it'll be a highly entertaining and thought-provoking adventure for our audiences.

Comedy, romance, river adventures, narrow escapes, epic battles, family rivalries and more.....it's all coming up in the 2008/2009 Theatre Season. Stay tuned!

Top Ten Reasons to Go See Cotton Patch Gospel...

2008-05-07T12:00:00.000-07:00

No. 10 - It's a toe-tapping, blue grass musical celebration the whole family will enjoy!

No. 9 - This is the first, full-scale musical ever in Gallery 7 production history - and everyone likes getting in on the ground level.

No. 8 - A fiddle, an upright, a guitar and the banjo never sounded so good together.

No. 7 - Really, what else did you have planned for the month of June? No, really....tell me.

No. 6 - You'll laugh, you'll cry, and your spirits will be lifted; you'll be entertained and you'll get some nourishing food for the soul. (Okay, so maybe those are enough reasons already!)

No. 5 - Talented musicians, talented cast (ahem) talented design team and an awesome production crew - it's a creative DREAM TEAM showcase!

No. 4 - You'll get to hear Ken Hildebrandt, Executive Artistic Director of Gallery 7, sing on-stage for the first time since his high-school performance as the Tin Man in The Wizard of Oz!

No. 3 - Life's too precious to pass up on such a great theatre experience.

No. 2 - You'll experience the power of the Gospels like you've never quite experienced them before!

...and, the No. 1 reason you and your friends should see Cotton Patch Gospel...

It's the Greatest Story ever RE-Told!

Tickets are on sale now at the House of James. Call 604-852-3701 to book your tickets today. Get your family, friends & neighbors and go see Cotton Patch Gospel. Why? 'Cause I think you're gonna love it!"

Ken Hildebrandt
Executive Artistic Director

Some notes about things...

2008-04-29T13:17:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy weekend...

Panic Squad & Friends...

On Friday, Gallery 7 Theatre hosted Panic Squad & Friends. Close to 300 people packed the MEI Secondary Theatre and by all indications, everyone had a good, wholesome laugh. The Panic Squad has gone through some changes in the past few months and some new members have joined the team. We wish the Squad all the best as they continue in their ministry of super-clean, super funny comedy improv - the good Lord knows we need quality entertainment options in this day and age. Hopefully, they'll be back next year!

13th Annual UCFV Director's Festival

I also had a chance to head in to Chilliwack to enjoy a host of plays at the 13th Annual Director's Festival. The Director's Festival, or "D-Fest" as the theatre students like to call it, showcases the talents of UCFV and other Lower Mainland theatre students, as well as local, community actors. Some of the plays are directed by UCFV fourth year directing students and feature 2nd year acting students, who participate as part of their final class projects. Other plays come from such schools as Capilano College, Studio 58 and others.

I was involved in the very first Director's Festival 13 years ago - I was just finishing up my degree - and it's nice to see that it's continuing to great success! I'm always impressed with the quality of the work featured. Plays span a wide range of themes and represent a wide variety of genres; from the straight-forward, traditionally structured plays to the down-right advant garde. This year's roster of plays contained a significant number of comedies, and Gallery 7 alumni members Greg Voth and Joanne Abraham turned in wonderful performances in their respective shows.

During the festival, I had the opportunity to catch up with old theatre colleagues and to visit with Ian Fenwick, UCFV Theatre Department Head and my former acting instructor. It's great catching up with former profs and to chat about the current state of affairs regarding theatre in the Valley. Both Ian and I agree that working together to mutually support and promote the work that's happening is to everyone's benefit. I look forward to seeing how we can work together with the UCFV Theatre Department to encourage growth and inspire greater interest in live theatre located right here on our doorstep.

Starfield Concert at Central Heights Church...

Finally, I would like to regretfully mention the accident that occurred at Central Heights Church this past weekend during the Starfield concert. My heart goes out to all those affected but especially to the audience members injured in the floor collapse, to Starfield and their management, and to the church as they figure out next steps - reports indicate that the building could be out of service until the end of summer. Let's pray for quick healing as well as healthy and positive resolutions to this nightmare.

Until next time...

Ken Hildebrandt
Executive Artistic Director

2008 Arty Awards

2008-04-24T16:24:00.000-07:00

(first photo) Gallery 7 Theatre's Artistic/Executive Director Ken Hildebrandt chats with fellow nominee, local actor Arnie Larsen. (second photo) Some of the fifty nominees at this year's Arty Awards. Photos by Lynne Karey-McKenna.

This past Tuesday evening, I attended the Arty Awards, hosted by the Abbotsford Arts Council. I gotta say, "WOW! There is some truly amazing talent based right here in our community. Abbotsford residents have a lot to be proud of!"

All together, fifty individuals and organizations representing the breadth and width of the visual & performing arts community in Abbotsford, were nominated in ten categories. Gallery 7 Theatre was nominated as Outstanding Artist in the Performing Arts - Theatre. The award went to David A. Hunt - congratulations, David! All nominees were presented with a plaque commemorating their nomination. Abbotsford Printing, a valued sponsor of our 2007/2008 season of theatre, was honored with an award for Outstanding Arts Sponsor. Congratulations you guys - we appreciate all you do for the arts!

Performances were also given by local artists including the Abbotsford Bhangra Dancers, local country-western singer, Kristal Barrett, Canadian Idol contestant, Karen Lee Batten and Abbotsford Children's Theatre. A tasty reception followed, sponsored by Steakhouse of Abbotsford.

It was great to be a part of this important celebration and I hope such events will help spark greater interest in the visual and performing arts in our community. We've done an excellent job developing a vibrant sporting & recreational core in Abbotsford - we can only become greater as we now focus on supporting, promoting, and enjoying the arts here in our City in the Country.

Ken Hildebrandt
Executive/Artistic Director

Theatre Worthy of Note....

2008-04-21T12:15:00.001-07:00

Panic Squad & Friends
April 25, 2008 at 7:30 PM

Weather Forcast for April 25? Light rain.

Canucks Play-Off Hockey? N/A

What to do Friday Night? Comedy Improv!

Don't forget to get your tickets for our annual April comedy improv event with Panic Squad. It's light, wholesome and hilarious entertainment your family and friends will seriously enjoy.

If you've ever seen Whose Line is it Anyway or Theatre Sports in Vancouver, then you'll have a side-splitting ball with Panic Squad. And, you won't have to be worried about being embarrassed by any below-the-belt humor - these guys specialize in keepin it clean.

What better thing to do on a Friday night with rain in the forecast and no Canucks hockey to look forward to. This is comedy improv at its best! Hope to see you there...tickets available at House of James - call 604-852-3701.

The Hobbit
Carousel Theatre, April 9 - May 3, 2008

When you're working in theatre, you don't get a chance to see as much theatre as you'd like, but last weekend was an exception. On April 10, a theatre colleague of mine and I had the opportunity to head in to Granville Island to catch Carousell Theatre's new production of The Hobbit by Kim Selody.

This is the same script we produced last year here at Gallery 7. What impressed me most about this production was the the fusion of all the technical elements (set, lighting, costume and sound) to help create the epic world of Middle Earth on the rather small Waterfront Theatre stage. The show really is a feast for the eyes - check out what they do to create the terrifying dragon in particular - a simple, yet creative use of technical elements that does the trick.

There's a Gallery 7 Theatre connection with this show - Jay Havens, who did sets for our productions of To Kill a Mockingbird and Beau Jest designed the costumes and masks for this show. Job well-done, Mr. Havens - congratulations!

I recommend this production for kids over the age of 10 - some scenes may frighten young children - but it's a fun adventure worth checking out. For tickets, call the Carousell Theatre box office at 604.685.6217.

On another note...

MEI Secondary presented their spring production of The Curious Savage this past week to great artistic success. As the show's director, it was a delight to see the students have such a great time performing the show so professionaly. This particular play was chosen because of the great opportunity it provided students to sink their teeth in to some fun characters, and because of the wide appeal the play would have with Fraser Valley audiences. It's funny, charming, heart-warming, and even a bit of a tear jerker. All the right ingredients for a worthwhile theatre experience....

The problem was....audiences were a bit slim. This is a possible trend that I'm paying particularly close attention to. An incredible amount of thought, energy, heart and soul goes into every single production a school, community, college or a professional theatre produces. We don't present a show we don't believe in ourselves, nor do we produce a show we think audiences would not benefit from nor enjoy.

So, my question is: What are the factors determining whether we attend a theatre production or not? Looking forward to hearing your thoughts....

MEI Secondary presents....

2008-04-08T12:43:00.000-07:00

Long time Gallery 7 fans may remember this title - we produced The Curious Savage back in 2000. Memory serves that people really quite enjoyed this comedy-caper. It's about a widower who inherits 10 million dollars from her late husband and, rather than giving it to her greedy stepchildren, converts it all into a set of half-million dollar negotiable bonds to give to those who want to pursue their dreams.

Of course, the children are livid and commit Mrs. Savage to a sanitarium while they try to figure out what to do. While there, Mrs. Savage meets an eclectic group of inhabitants and forms some fast friendships. The Cloisters, as the sanitarium is called, becomes Mrs. Savage central control from which she sends her children on a wild goose chase to test the extent of their greed and to teach them something about compassion and being others-centered.

The Curious Savage is a fun and entertaining play with a bunch of laughs and even a little food for thought. And, it's this year's Spring Production at MEI Secondary School here in Abbotsford.

MEI has a long-standing tradition of high-quality musical and play productions, and this show will be no exception. A huge set, brilliant costumes, and a very talented cast of students are bringing The Curious Savage to the MEI stage April 16 - 19, 2008 at 7:00PM with a matinee on April 19 at 2:00 PM & a specially discounted dress rehearsal performance on April 15 at 7:00PM.

This is a great opportunity to see the wonderful up-and-coming talent our community, and the school, has to offer. It'll definitely be an entertaining night out, and I think you'll be hard-pressed to see differences in quality between this show and say some shows you might see in community or college theatres. Give MEI Secondary a call at 604-859-3700 for tickets.

Why am I mentioning it on the Gallery 7 blog? Well, I guess it's because I'm directing - good reason, right? And, having directed the play at Gallery 7, it's kind of cool to return to a play you really like and give it another go. Hope to see you there!

Ken Hildebrandt
Executive Artistic Director

Mark your calendars today...

2008-04-02T12:29:00.000-07:00

Hello folks,

Thought I'd give you all a heads-up on a couple of events coming up at Gallery 7 that we're eagerly looking forward to. I think you'll want to mark your calendars now because these are great, family-friendly theatre experiences you won't want to miss...

Panic Squad - April 25 at 7:30 PM

If you've ever seen Whose Line is it Anyway on TV or Theatre Sports in Vancouver, then you know what I'm talking about when I say comedy improv is very, VERY funny.

What sets Panic Squad apart, though, is their commitment and super-human ability to keep it all clean! In an age of dirty humor and low-blow jokes, Panic Squad specializes in keeping the jokes above the belt, making their performances a truly fun, wholesome and HIGHLY entertaining night out.

This April, the Squad will be joined by several other highly-skilled improvisers, making for a unique show not be experienced anywhere else in North America. We call it...Panic Squad and Friends.

I highly recommend you catch this rare performance - it's some serious high quality comedy entertainment. Check it out April 25 at 7:30 PM at our home in the MEI Secondary School Auditorium. You can get tickets at House of James by calling 604-852-3701 or by going to the store in person.

Cotton Patch Gospel: June 13 - 27, 2008

Okay, I LOVE this musical, and I'm very excited to finally include it in our line-up; our first musical EVER in our history!

Cotton Patch Gospel is a blue-grass musical celebration of the Gospel story, based on the books of Matthew & John and written by Tom Key and the legendary Harry Chapin. It's toe-tapping, knee-slapping fun with poignant truths sprinkled through-out.

This is a modernized look at Jesus' life, set in the southern state of Georgia in the early 50's. Okay, so I can already hear some of the murmurings already....Modernizing the story of Jesus seems a bit sacrileges, right?

Maybe...but allow me to say this..something interesting and very special happens in Cotton Patch Gospel. In the midst of all the wit, charm and modern-day references, the play actually helps us better understand some of the cultural influences and realities of Biblical times. The show even touches on how we as a church may still be guilty of some of the things Jesus railed against during His ministry over 2000 years ago. In the middle of all the music & fun, there lies some real poignant moments that hit you square in the heart. It's theatre at its best!

I guess what I'm saying is that though it may seem a bit odd to hear modern-day substitutions for Biblical locations and events, it's the TRUTH of Jesus' teachings that are the compelling factor - His teachings are timeless and they are just as important today as they were 2000 years ago. This makes Cotton Patch Gospel a unique, respectful and a must-see theatre experience.

I'm really looking forward to this show - it's a production that takes Gallery 7 back to its roots as a faith-based theatre, it's a show that should connect well with our Bible-Belt community, and it's a show that will hopefully introduce so many new people to the Person and Power of Jesus.

There's another reason I'm particularly excited about this show: I'm really thrilled about the amazing talent we've been able to draw together. Dean Wedel, MA and choral director at MEI, Chad Joiner, band director at MEI & founder of the school's marching band and Willis Taylor, local musician, drama instructor at Yale Secondary & winner of the best actor award for his performance as Hoke in our production of Driving Miss Daisy at Theatre BC's Mainstage theatre festival, are joining together to form the live, on-stage band.

Dr. Lloyd Arnett of TWU Drama Department will be directing, Heather Robertson, wardrobe manager at UCFV Theatre, is designing the set, and Dani Rebain, who did the costumes for us for Village of Idiots, will be the costume designer.

Finally, I get to return the stage as an actor! Yes, I will be acting, singing and maybe even dancing my way through the show. Surprised? Well, maybe about the singing and dancing, right? Well, needless to say, I'm really looking forward to working with this talented group of artists. It's going to be a hoot - and it's going to be a hoot for you too!

Tickets go on sale soon so be sure to check our website at http://www.gallery7theatre.com/ for more info. Hope to see you at show!

Ken Hildebrandt
Executive Artistic Director

Suggest a Play for the 2008/2009 Theatre Season...

2008-03-27T15:51:00.000-07:00

Well, we're starting to put together ideas for the 2008/2009 theatre season and would love to hear any suggestions you might have!

Overall, we tend to produce plays that explore themes of particular interest to us as a faith-based theatre and the audience we serve. They may be outright comedies with a dash of food for thought thrown in, or they may be emotional charged dramas dealing with signifcant social, political or spiritual issues. Some plays may be religious in nature and some may not. In the end, we want to provide our audiences with quality theatre experiences that tickle the funny-bone, tug at the heart strings, inspire the intellect, and elevate the spirit. And, maybe, just maybe, our plays will draw us all just a bit closer to God....

Have a play in mind that might fit the bill? Send the suggestion to us - it's good to know what you have a hankering for...hope to hear from you.

Ken

P.S. Of course, we can't guarantee that you're play suggestion will get produced....but I do appreciate you suggesting it anyway! :)

The Trip to Bountiful - March, 2008. Photos by Duncan Turner, www.dltphoto.com

2008-03-25T14:37:00.001-07:00

Photobucket Album

Theatre Review: Abbotsford Post

2008-03-25T14:09:00.000-07:00

Here's a review of The Trip to Bountiful we received from Lynne Karey-McKenna, theatre reviewer for the Abbotsford Post:

Gallery 7’s Trip is a Success
By Lynne Karey-McKenna

Around British Columbia, a trip to Bountiful, has a certain connotation and so when I was telling people that Gallery 7, the local Christian-based community theatre, was presenting Horton Foote’s play, The Trip to Bountiful, at the MEI Secondary School, many a curious eyebrow was raised. As it turns out this play, which is about finding your home inside of you, was an ideal choice for Gallery 7, and it’s presentation is of the highest calibre that I have seen from Gallery 7 since the theatre company moved to it’s new space. Indeed, the performance quality and production values of this play took Gallery 7 out of the community theatre realm and into professional theatre standards, while still maintaining the community theatre price.

The Trip to Bountiful by Horton Foote is a quiet, leisurely paced story that's more character than plot driven. Immediately, from the preshow music (arranged by Gallery 7’s Artistic Director Ken Hildebrandt), the audience is gently drawn into the 1940’s southern American world of the aging widow, Carrie Watts. The stage lights rise to MEI alumni Dustin Froese’s wonderfully staged set design and the audience finds Ms. Watts, believably played by June Ainsworth, sitting in the moonlight, idyllically presented by lighting designer and UCFV student, Joanne Abraham’s lighting design techniques. Watts is sleepless on this night of the full moon as she sits on her rocker in the living room, which serves as her bedroom, of her son’s and daughter-in law’s small Houston apartment. The atmosphere is set and the plot slowly unfolds.

This beautifully presented story revolves around Watts’ desire to escape from this jail-like apartment she shares with her son Ludie (CBC student, Jason Wood) and controlling daughter-in-law Jessie Mae (Sheryl Galpin) to go back to her home in Bountiful. Money is tight and Watts’ pension check is much needed by Jessie Mae as Ludie has only recently started working again after losing his job during an unspecified two-year illness. Whatever roadblocks may present themselves, however, Watts’ desire and determination to get back to her “roots” will not be quenched.

This production brings a lot of ‘new blood’ to the Gallery 7 team, including lighting designer Abraham, set designer Froese, director Annette Reilly, young Wood believably playing the older then middle-aged beaten down son of Watts, and the very talented Ainsworth who shows both the gentleness and tenacity of Mrs. Watts. Ainsworth’s Watts is not some daffy, forgetful old lady hankering for an unrecoverable past but a canny survivor filled with compassion, humour and a touch of appropriate nastiness. She is able to accept the compromises that life brings to fulfill her wish to return to her home filled with past losses and happy memories and feel her roots once again..

The play, though oozing with the atmosphere of the 1940s, is remarkably timely and the themes that it presents are universal

Director Reilly, a graduate of the University of Victoria and a native Albertan, resonated with this play and thusly produced a production team that clearly worked together to form a solid vision of Watts’ journey to Bountiful.

Reilly felt she particularly understood Watts’ because, Reilly, herself, was born into a farming family in Alberta that homesteaded their land over 100 years ago and could resonate with that longing for “home”.

“Everyone in my family feels a special connection to that land,” writes Reilly as she explains her desire to present Watts’ story. “No matter how far we [Reilly’s family] trek, we always go back to our roots to reconnect and remind ourselves where we came from.” With this in mind, Reilly related to this story and directed all her actors into believable, three dimensional characters, each with their own passionate desire to find meaning and happiness with their life’s here on earth.

It’s clear that everyone, from Watts’ fearful and beaten down son, Ludie, to the jittery and bossy Jessie Mae, is just trying to impose some form and meaning on the swirling shadows that are their lives. Each of these actors, give their characters depth and meaning without going into caricature that could deny the story its universal appeal.

I went to the production with my thirteen-year-old daughter, and I’m very glad I did, because I would have thought that the themes in this story would be ones that a young urban person would not be able to relate to. This story is a gentle story and as such, I would have thought my teenager, who is used to movies, special effects and loves fantasy, dragons and wizards, would find it a bit on the boring side. I was very wrong. She was thoroughly engaged throughout the entire play and found it to be a “lovely, interesting and entertaining” play.

I highly recommend that you take a trip out to the MEI Secondary School Auditorium at 4081 Clearbrook Road in Abbotsford to catch this production of The Trip to Bountiful. Evening performances continue March 13-15, 20-22 at 7:30 and there is one discount matinee left on March 15 at 2:00. Tickets are $15.00 for adults, $13.50 for students and seniors, $12.50 for children (12 & under) and groups (10+) and $11.00 for discount matinees. They can be purchased in advance through House of James, 2743 Emerson Street, Abbotsford, or by calling 604-852-3701. Gallery 7 can also be contacted through their website at www.gallery7theatre.com.

Gallery 7 Theatre's New Blog

2008-03-20T16:44:00.000-07:00

Greetings from Gallery 7 Theatre!

Okay, until now, I never thought I was hip or capabable enough to do this thing called blogging, but I think it might be a good way to keep people better informed and in-touch with what's happening here at Gallery 7.

So, here we are - with a brand-new blog; a tool I hope will keep people in touch with the stuff that's going on both onstage and off.

Look for news releases, announcements, reviews, comments and other related stuff about Gallery 7, along with some of my own personal thoughts on productions I've seen. I'll probably even throw in some unsolicited (but highly intellegent) thoughts about theatre in general, about faith and the arts, and anything else that might seem appropriate.

In the meantime, hope you all have a great Easter weekend, and make sure you check out The Trip to Bountiful - it closes this Saturday. Don't miss it.

Ken Hildebrandt
Executive Artistic Director