The timeless art of story-telling has a surprising way of drawing out laughter and tears, good feelings and warm memories. In an age of fast and accessible media, live story telling seems like an archaic remnant of a simpler time – and it is, in the very best sense.
Wingfield Unbound played at Rosebud Theatre from March 17-19. It is a one-actor, ten character show played by the hilarious and tender hearted Rod Beattie. This show is the fourth instalment of the Wingfield series which tells of life in the Persephone Township in Southern Ontario, and the foibles of Walt Wingfield, stock-broker-turned-farmer. In the spirit of the series, Walt is inspired to preserve the local crumbling Hollyhock Mill by converting it into a museum. Switching seamlessly between local characters, from the dysfunctional and hilarious town council to superstitious farmers, Walt’s good idea turns into a comedy of errors. It took no time to feel as though we were caught up in the eccentric and vaguely familiar life of a country community. Quirky characters, sporting all their oddities, are a reminder that our own neighbourhoods can be places where the best stories begin.
Rod Beattie and playwright Dan Needles show us that story-telling, done expertly, is an art form of the best kind.
Rosebud Theatre is an inspiring gem in its own right. Rosebud, Alberta, is a town nestled in a prairie valley and walking through town feels like the start of a good story. Rosebud Theatre, and the associated Rosebud School of the Arts, is an unlikely cultural phenomenon here in our own backyard. That a little theatre is thriving on the prairies is a testament to the quality story telling and experiences they create.
This season promises to be another laughter-filled and inspiring line up of shows. Outside Mullingar runs from April 1st to June 11th and tells a heart-warming country story about two Irish farmers drawn together by love, and kept separate by a simmering feud. NY Daily News called the play, “A valentine to the wonder and weirdness of love.”
Rosebud Theatre is just barely over an hour from Chestermere and after a meal, live music and theatre, it is a beautiful way to spend an evening. Story telling is timeless and Rosebud Theatre is a reminder that good stories continue to be told. For the start of a good story, visit www.rosebudtheatre.com or call 1-800-267-7553.
