Playwright, hailed as 'bold', set to debut at The Staircase on Thursday evening
In the heart of Hamilton, the Staircase Theatre is set to host the premiere of "Never the 51st State," a captivating play written by Ray Rivers and produced by Hamilton's Classical Theatre Company.
The production, directed by Ray Rivers himself, is a double-hinged story that transports audiences through two distinct eras. Act 1 is set during the War of 1812, where we follow two British soldiers as they defend a bridge from their American counterparts. Act 2 dovetails with the current war between Russia and Ukraine, providing a timeless sense of universality.
The play is more than just a history lesson; it is a drama, a love story, and a cautionary tale about the dangers of getting too close to an expansionist neighbour. Peter Anderson, an accomplished actor, brings John Dean to life, a character who evolves from a gritty, ruthless fighter to someone compassionate and caring.
Mariia Zaichenko, a Ukrainian citizen living in Canada, plays a character who symbolizes strength, sacrifice, and the difficult choices many Ukrainians have faced. Zaichenko's performance is particularly poignant, as her husband serves in the Ukrainian armed forces, and she took a break from the production last week to visit him.
The play encompasses Canadian history, culture, valour, passion, and romance, aiming to emotionally connect audience members with the country. Ray Rivers, besides being a playwright, a director, and an actor, is a Contributing Editor for a renowned website, further demonstrating his commitment to the arts and Canadian identity.
"Never the 51st State" was originally titled "Bridges to Nationhood," but the title was changed to emphasize its cautionary nature. The play is a reminder of the importance of maintaining our independence and sovereignty in the face of external threats.
The production opens at the Staircase Theatre on Thursday and runs through August 30th. Ticket sales are being handled by Eventbrite. This is an opportunity to witness a thought-provoking piece of theatre that resonates with current events and delves into the human side of war. Don't miss out on this powerful and emotional journey.
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