Dear editor,The talent of people in this Valley is matched only by their generosity.  L’Arche Comox Valley was the beneficiary of both great talent and generosity when many people contributed to make an evening of theatre and music at the Filberg Centre a huge success last month.  The event was a fundraiser for L’Arche’s work with developmentally disabled adults and raised over $7,000 for that purpose. All the artists and businesses who participated donated their services, for which L’Arche is deeply grateful.Members of Courtenay Little Theatre gave extensive time to rehearse and perform an acted play-reading of the dramatic comedy Kiss the Moon, Kiss the Sun by Canadian playwright Norm Foster.  It is the story of Robert, a developmentally disabled man who faces the rest of his life without the mother he has lived with, and his blossoming relationship with a young woman he meets at a bus stop. The play regaled the large audience with laughter and then had it deeply moved as the story unfolded.Wes Buckle as Robert gave an immensely sensitive and realistic portrayal of the brain damaged man. His friend, Holly, masterfully played by Lynn Hodge, is caught between compassion and fear of commitment. His mother, portrayed by Kirstin Humpherys, embodies dignity and suffering.They were skillfully aided by Ted Hicks, Terry Penney and Kent Roduck in supporting roles.Steve Hill directed the production using a bare stage, lighting, stark costuming and choreographed movement of the actors to grip the audience’s imagination. It was brilliantly done and the audience’s rapt attention throughout and standing ovation at the end demonstrated its effectiveness.Prior to the play reading, the audience had the privilege to hear five exquisite cello pieces played by the Valley’s wonderfully gifted Helena Jung, supported by Wendy Dyck on the piano. The cello is an instrument that reaches deep into the soul and in the hands of Helena Jung its music is mesmerizing.Adding to an evening that fed mind and spirit, the stomach was catered to by a wide array of delicious desserts donated by Locals Restaurant: Food from the Heart of the Valley. Owners Ronald and Patricia St. Pierre spared no effort to provide a rich and varied spread, ably assisted by five of their young staff who also volunteered their time.Hester Creek Vineyards made wine available at a reduced rate to assist the cause. Local newspapers provided generous coverage to bring the evening to the community’s attention.To all these individuals and businesses, L’Arche Comox Valley expresses its most grateful thanks for their support and for demonstrating that compassion and generosity are very much alive in our community and Valley.Tony Roberts,Comox Valley

Comox Valley Record