Photo: Local Muskoka actor Jodie Auckland in the role of Shirley Valentine at a recent rehearsal of the award-winning one-woman show, Shirley Valentine, written by Willy Russell. (Photo credit: Steven Jacklin).
By Rev. Meg Jordan, Minister at Lake of Bays United Churches
Pioneer Memorial United Church is thrilled to announce an exciting collaboration with Dot The T Productions, a professional theatre company in Lake of Bays, under the visionary leadership of Artistic Director Jan Jacklin and Minister, Rev. Meg Jordan. Together, they will strive to bring entertaining, thought-provoking theatre to the local community with their first production, an award-winning one-woman show, “SHIRLEY VALENTINE” on February 29 and March 1 at 7 pm and two matinees on March 2 and 3 at 2 pm.
The 132-year-old heritage church, Pioneer Memorial, is located at 2370 Highway 60, Hillside in Lake of Bays. Its hall will serve as a vibrant cultural hub as they host their inaugural show and pave the way for future theatre productions. SHIRLEY VALENTINE, written by Willy Russell, is a heartwarming comedy about a middle-aged woman stuck in a boring marriage who wonders what ever happened to all her dreams from her youth.
Jan Jacklin expresses her enthusiasm, stating, “We are delighted to collaborate with Pioneer, a welcoming venue steeped in history and community support. This partnership allows us to bring engaging theatre productions to Lake of Bays and provide a unique experience for both residents and visitors.”
Jacklin first attended Pioneer one recent Sunday and recognized the potential for pop-up theatre in the spacious hall. When she learned that funds were needed to replace the church furnaces, Jacklin met with Rev. Jordan and church leaders and received an enthusiastic and positive response to her proposal.
Each performance will seat 50 people and 25-50% of each ticket sold (dependent on ticket prices) will be donated for the installation of new furnaces for the church. This initiative aligns with Pioneer’s commitment to open its doors to the community, preserve the heritage of the church, and ensure its warmth and vitality for generations to come.
They invite you to celebrate this union of heritage and the arts. Be part of the excitement as this charming, historic church takes center stage, becoming a haven for cultural expression in the community.
To reserve a ticket for SHIRLEY VALENTINE, send an e-transfer of $40 to [email protected] OR, if availability permits, bring cash to the door. Doors open 30 minutes before show time. Refreshments will be available by cash donation.
To learn more about theatre at Pioneer and upcoming events, click HERE.
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