Humans may not have existed until 65 million years after dinosaurs roamed the earth, nonetheless, a bunch of troglodytes will be joining the dinos at this year’s prehistoric-themed Vernon Winter Carnival.
This year’s Carnival dinner theatre production is entitled Post-Prehistoric Cave Dudes, which creator Phil Wagner, artistic director of The Tragically Comic Players, wrote specifically for this year’s carnival theme.
However, he believes the show will have a lasting effect on the entire world.
“Philosophy 101 is included on the cave walls, and the whole event leads ultimately to everyone’s favourite cover songs, especially the funky ones, which are also full of earth shattering, shall we say, old news,” said Wagner, who also plays a “dude” in the play.
Other crazy cave people include Dan Mellows, Regina Picco, Mikaela Kemper, Elcita Young and her daughter, Keiryn, who actually play sisters in the production.
“The ladies in this play get to carry really big clubs in order to catch the biggest fanciest furs for their cave girl outfits and of course to catch the best cave dude,” said Wagner. “Everyone discovers weird sounds inside the cave that make them dance around and eventually makes them sing lyrics from songs that they’ve heard before in their dreams, I guess.”
Scenic artists and stage managers include Annika Lauriston and Nicholas Elliot, while Mary Dobslaff is sound director, Rod MacDonald is lighting director, and Aidan Chernoff is an assistant.
“Last year’s dinner was memorable and promises as much this year, and there is a cash bar,” said Wagner. “All ages are welcome, but it is recommended for eight and up. Reservations may be made for tables of eight and special needs audience members.”
Post-Prehistoric Cave Dudes opens Feb. 6 and runs to Feb. 9 at the Village Green Hotel Sierra Room.
Tickets are $48 and $43 for the dinner and the show. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Inquiries about a limited number of theatre-only tickets can be made at the Vernon Winter Carnival office by calling 250-545-2236.
Regular dinner and a show tickets may be purchased at the Carnival office or at www.vernonwintercarnival.com.
