Arlene Blundell saw Mrs. Reynolds and the Ruffian when it premiered in England in 2011, and she is bringing the play to Qualicum Beach beginning April 24.
“This is probably a Canadian premiere,” said Blundell, the director of the play running at Echo Player’s Village Theatre from April 24 to May 11.
The story, written by Gary Owen, surrounds a delinquent youth and a little old lady. When the young boy vandalizes her garden the two end up having to spend some time together.
“It’s an old story in a lot of ways, but with a modern twist of social justice,” said Blundell.
The playwright did a lot of research on social welfare agencies and from acting classes involving troubled youth, Blundell explained. That information coupled with top-notch writing makes for a great story, she said.
Blundell currently lives in Nanaimo where she was a high school drama teacher for eight years. She was involved in theatre herself during school and went on to do courses and workshops through Theatre B.C. She ran a production company called UBetcha! for years in Nanaimo which featured many members of Echo Players. Blundell said she is pleased to be running a play that features teenagers and with a message that shows that caring matters.
“It’s thought provoking and I hope it will create discussion,” she said.
Mrs. Reynolds and the Ruffian is playing at the Village Theatre. Tickets are $19 for adults, $16 for seniors, $10 for students and $5 for 12 and under. Phone 250-752-3522 or email info@echoplayers.ca. For box office hours and more information visit www.echoplayers.ca.
