It will be a classic slice of Canadiana for South Island Musical Theatre Society’s 35th anniversary, as they present Anne of Green Gables March 31 to April 3 at the Cowichan Performing Arts Centre.
The musical tells the humourous and heartwarming story of Anne Shirley, an orphaned 11-year-old girl sent to live on a farm run by a middle-aged brother and sister in a small town on Prince Edward Island.
“It’s a fun show, because there’s quite a lot of contrast between these almost very comic musical numbers and then you get some real drama that’s based on these characters that we all know and love,” said dramatic director Laura Faulkner.
Casting for the show was done in September and rehearsals started in January. With top-notch choreography from Joyce Scott, Anne of Green Gables promises to be a treat for all. The musical’s script by Don Harron, based on Lucy Maud Montgomery’s 1908 novel, is witty and compelling. Harron was a skilled Canadian screenwriter and playwright best known for his creation of the character of Charlie Farquharson, a folksy Ontario farmer prone to unintentional comedy and gaffes.
Harron’s musical take on Anne of Green Gables is the longest-running musical in Canadian history, having been performed each year since 1965.
The story of how Anne changes the lives of those around her and finds her way in the new town is a timeless tale about how much difference one person can make.
“It’s really about the growth of the community,” Faulkner explained. “The story of the town of Avonlea is that all the people have to learn to adapt and loosen up. It’s about how this character changes this town and helps them to grow and become better people.”
For information or to buy tickets call 250-748-7529 or visit www.cowichan pac.ca/event/anne-green-gables.