This past weekend, Flying Arrow Productions’ Canada 150 Community Theatre Project Welcome Home took place at the Revelstoke Railway Museum.
In six short weeks, Revelstokians of all ages tackled the complex issues around leaving home, finding home, sharing community, and how people might be treated in the process
Both shows were sold out. Foregoing the notion of a regular theatre experience, director Anita Hallewas deftly created an immersive and interactive affair that took place at the railway museum.
The audience entered the building and met a tour guide played by Caroline Johnston, who was perfectly at ease in her role. The audience then ‘followed the flag’ she carried around the museum (the notion of which was intriguing as the play explores the global movement of people).
At the first stop, two teen audience members decided to shrug off the tour, and the play took off as they travelled through time and place, witnessing, with the audience, a multitude of characters and circumstances.
Welcome Home tackled tough subject matter and history. From the grisly reality of how Chinese immigrants were treated while building the railway, to the hopes and fears of Syrian refugees heading to Canada, Hallewas guided her actors with an expert hand. With a cast that included children and first time actors, there was not a noticeable missed line or cue or weak character. Costumes were also well done, as was backstage cueing.
Photo: A scene from Welcome Home. ~ By Keri Knapp
Themes of subtle racism and prejudice, as well as blatantly obvious racism (in a favourite scene of mine railway conductor Kelly Zurba only allowed blue eyed travellers on the train, regardless of their education, age or gender) were explored. Modern and local flare, such as ‘fake news,’ a secret group of Revelstoke coffee shop owners and the Poke List, were great additions.
I was surprised how the play managed to touch on the many ways one can be displaced. From flooding to fire, Canadian expropriation issues of those whose land is destined to be flooded by dams to those fleeing conflict and strife, are represented. Where do these people go? How do they view themselves? How do others view them? Will people help them? And if not, why not?
After several stops throughout the museum, the play comes to a close. It ends in song. It’s a move that could have been cheesy, but thanks to some great guitar playing and singing by Dave Coke and obvious vocal training of the cast, it was touching.
Welcome Home was ultimately optimistic in message.
With a running time of one hour, everyone in this show should be congratulated for their hard work.
