Troublesome Drama: An Challenging Stage Production, Addressing Challenging Matters, Featuring Striking Performances.
The Classical Theatre Company, an amateur group active in the Ancaster and Hamilton communities, is set to present a thought-provoking play titled "Never the 51 State". This production, organised by the group Asian Dub Foundation, will run at the Staircase Theatre in Hamilton from various dates in August 2025.
"Never the 51 State" is a captivating drama that weaves together the challenges facing two nations, Canada and Ukraine, both of which have their borders threatened by their closest neighbours. The play draws parallels between the strategic importance of two bridges, the Canard River Bridge in Canada and the bridge in Ukraine, and the invasions each nation has faced.
The Canard River Bridge, strategically vital in the early stages of the 1812 war, controlled access to Detroit and was not defended by the Americans, allowing British soldiers to take Detroit. In 2012, the bridge was named the Hancock-Dean 1812 Bridge to Nationhood. On the other hand, the bridge in Ukraine, which had to be held to stop Russian advances, was blown up as holding proved to be impossible.
The play's cast includes Emily Bolyea, who takes on two roles: a municipal council member and later the wife of General Hull. Ray Rivers, who also wrote and directed the play, portrays General Hull. Derek Groulx plays Tecumseh, a member of the Mohawk tribe.
A unique aspect of the production is the use of four huge LED screens as backdrops for various scenes. Tickets for the play are available through Eventbrite.
The play is not a comedy, but it has lines that will earn more than a chuckle from the audience. It presents the challenges Canada faces with a President that is both unpredictable and capricious, without offering any resolutions.
Maria Zaichenko, a Ukrainian citizen living in Canada while her husband serves on the front lines in Ukraine, felt a strong desire to be a part of the play after hearing about it through friends in her church community. Her presence on stage gives the production a level of authenticity that Director Rivers didn't expect. Maria Zaichenko, who wants to go home, shares her personal experiences and feelings about the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
After the run of the play, the producers will be donating the LED screens to the Staircase Theatre. The production had a $4000 budget, and profits, if there are any, will be distributed amongst the cast members.
Don't miss this riveting exploration of history and its parallels in the present day. Secure your tickets now for "Never the 51 State" at the Staircase Theatre in August 2025.
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