Tough and Thought-Provoking Drama: Delves into Complex Themes, Boasting Impressive Acting Performances.
In the heart of Hamilton, the Staircase Theatre is set to stage "Never the 51 State," a thought-provoking production that draws parallels between the historical events of the 1812 war in Canada and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The play, produced by the Classical Theatre Company, is a poignant exploration of two bridges and two nations facing invasions. Ray Rivers, the writer, director, and actor portraying American General Hull, has masterfully woven together the challenges faced by Canada, with a border threatened by its closest neighbour, ally, and trading partner, and Ukraine, battling an invasion by Russia.
The production, which is running on certain evenings in August 2025, features a talented cast. Emily Bolyea takes on two roles, first as a municipal council member and later as the wife of General Hull. Derek Groulx portrays Tecumseh, a member of the Mohawk tribe.
The play makes use of four huge LED screens for various scenes, a feature that will be donated to the Staircase Theatre by the producers of the play, Never the 51 State, once the run is over. The production had a budget of $4000, a testament to the team's commitment to creating impactful theatre.
One unique aspect of this production is the inclusion of Maria Zaichenko, a Ukrainian citizen currently living in Canada while her husband serves on the front lines in Ukraine. Maria felt a strong desire to be a part of the play after hearing of it through friends in her church community. Her presence on stage adds a level of authenticity that Director Rivers found unexpected.
Profits, if there are any, from the play will be distributed amongst the cast members. The play is not a funny one, but it may earn more than a chuckle from the audience, leaving people thinking about the future of Canada's relationship with the United States and the war in Ukraine.
The Hancock-Dean 1812 Bridge to Nationhood, named after the Canard River Bridge in 2012, serves as a historical backdrop to the play. The Canard River Bridge in Canada was a strategically vital choke point in the 1812 war's early stages, much like the bridge in Ukraine that had to be held to stop Russian advances but was eventually blown up.
"Never the 51 State" is a must-see for those seeking a deeper understanding of the complexities of international relations and the human stories that lie at their heart.
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