It was a story waiting to be told. A true story of heart-wrenching emotional depth.
An original play, written and directed by local actor, director and playwright Michael Armstrong, with assistant director Jennifer Kelly, Longing is ECHO Players’ newest production, opening April 18 at the Village Theatre in Qualicum Beach.
It is a challenging multi-media production and according to producer Linda Attley, “unlike anything we have done before.”
The author’s own mother is the central figure in this exceptional tale of uncertainty, upheaval and loss, yet brimming with courage and resilience.
It’s the story of one woman’s challenging life from 1919 through 2007, a journey through tragedy and triumph, played alongside the history and headlines of the time.
Orphaned at an early age, Barbara spent her life longing for stability and the lasting relationships that continuously eluded her, from the heady heights of first love to the optimistic allure of stable love, then the heartbreak and heartache.
Resilience flows through the script, as Barbara leans forward with eternal optimism into a life of failed love and tragedy, trusting her heart, only to be let down time after time.
Heaps of praise to a brilliant cast who bring a complex script to life.
All the drama is carried on the shoulders of Clarice McCord and Judy Hipkin in their alternating role as Barbara narrating her own story, which begins with delightful 10-year-old Madeleine Macdonald playing Barbara as a young child.
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Amanda Wagner and Lana Harach give outstanding performances as optimistic Barbara through the years. Brian Lecky’s gentle demeanour, as Barbara’s son Michael, lends a sustaining warmth and sensitivity to the production.
Convincing in their multiple roles as love interests are Randy Humchitt, Rob Atkinson and Jack Duce. Hilary Whelton balances multiple roles including Joanne, the Radio Announcer, Helen and the Justice of the Peace.
Musical background emanates from Beth Devolder on guitar and piano, the production’s music lyricist/composer.
Longing is a powerful, thought-provoking story centred around the relentless human pursuit of happiness. Although Longing plays out in a minimal setting, as with every ECHO Players production, there is the ever-present dedicated crew supporting behind the scenes, with lights, sound, costumes, makeup and props.
Not only is it an original play, Longing is making its world premiere and is also ECHO’s entry into the theatre BC North Island Zone Festival.
The production runs April 18 to May 5 at Village Theatre, located at 110 Second Ave West in Qualicum Beach. Get your tickets to outstanding theatre now, online at www.echoplayers.ca.