When it comes to theatrical productions, there is often a clear line between drama and musical theatre. But the line will be blurred in Courtenay Little Theatre’s production of Waiting For The Parade by John Murrell. This play, which chronicles the lives of five women over the course of the Second World War, has music and songs woven throughout its script.
Music plays a large role in the characters’ lives. One of the women, Marta (Kymme Patrick) moved from Germany to Canada as a nine-year-old. Her love for German songs causes friction between her and the duty-bound Janet (Lynn Hodge). But Janet has her own relationship with music. “She’s very involved with her patriotic duties,” says Hodge. “She’s not a professional musician, but playing the piano is just one more way for her to be responsible.”
There are several well-known melodies in the play, such as ‘White Cliffs of Dover’, ‘I’ll Be Seeing You’, and ‘Lili Marlene’. Some songs will have toes tapping, while others will bring tears. “Music can evoke very strong memories,” says Hodge. “It adds a strong element of nostalgia to the play.”
Director Kirstin Humpherys agrees. “The music is critical to the show as it marks the era and calls up emotions about the time as only music can,” she says.
Waiting For The Parade will be playing at the Sid Williams Theatre April 13, 14, 19 , 20, 21 at 7.30 p.m., with a 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday, April 15. Tickets are available at the theatre box office, online at www.sidwilliamstheatre.com, or by calling 250- 338-2430.
-Kim Dias.
