The cast for the up incoming 100 Mile Performing Arts Society play, Over the Hills and Through the Woods, has been selected.
This production will bring a mix of novice and experienced actors to the tale of a man torn between a faraway job opportunity or staying with his grandparents.
The play consists of six characters. The first being Nick Cristano, the man faced with the difficult decision.
However, his four grandparents, Frank and Aida Gianelli, and Nunzio and Emma Cristano are bent on convincing Nick to stay.
They even bring in the granddaughter of a family friend, Caitlin O’Hare to try to convince Nick to stay.
Taking on the role of Frank is Eric Storteboom, a 15-year acting veteran. His last performance was as one of the ugly stepsisters in the Performing Arts’ Cinderella production.
Playing his on stage wife, Aida, will be Margot Shaw. She has volunteered with the Performing Arts for seven years of lighting and stage production. This is her first major role.
On the other side of the family tree will be Chris Watkins as Nunzio. Watkins last on-stage performance was as a supporting character in the Chilliwack Senior Secondary production of Macbeth in 1997.
Seven-year veteran Shelly Carrera has been cast as Emma. She has participated in the last 14 Performing Arts productions in both acting and production roles.
As for the role of Nick, 100 Mile House newcomer Jeremy Hannaford will be playing the morally conflicted character. He hasn’t been on the stage since his Acting 12 class at Aldergrove Community Secondary School in 2008.
Finally, Kelsey Schuurman will be taking the role of Caitlin. Schuurman has been acting since she was six years old with her most notable performance being the lead role in the Performing Arts 2010 production of Annie.
Gordon Smith will be directing the play. With 12 years acting experience under his belt, this is Gordon’s second time directing after Act of Murder in 2015.
His wife, Karen Smith, will be co-directing. One of the most seasoned participants, Karen has been with the Performing Arts for 15 years. Her last performance was Major Dobo in the 2015 production of Cinderella.
The gala opening night for Over the Hills and Through the Woods is set for Nov. 25.
The next Performing Arts production will be Steel Magnolias, directed by Nicole Weir.
