Ottawa Little Theatre brings laughter, suspense, joy, and even a tale for dog lovers its 106th Season
Ottawa, ON, May 5, 2018 – The Ottawa Little Theatre (OLT) – one of North America’s oldest, continuously producing community theatres – today announced an exciting line up of plays, sure to entertain audiences throughout the 2018-2019 season.
As we begin our 106th season, brought to you with thanks to Season Sponsor Canadian Retirement Information Centre and Sustaining Sponsor Kelly Funeral Homes by Arbour Memorial, we are honoured to be part of Ottawa’s burgeoning arts community and proud of the opportunity we have had to contribute to its vibrant culture. Each OLT production is a labour of love for the volunteer actors, directors, set, sound, costume, and lighting designers, and crew all committed to the common goal of putting a Little Theatre in our lives.
“Our volunteers drive this theatre, from play selection to ticket taking and every single step in between,” shared Geoff Gruson, Ottawa Little Theatre Board President and long-time volunteer director and actor. “The plays we have chosen to offer this year are a reflection of what a great many volunteers want to see on our stage and what we know our audience members will enjoy.”
The 2018-2019 season at OLT promises to have something for everyone, with comedy, suspense, heartwarming tales, and more. The new season kicks off on September 12th in the newly renovated Theatre which offers larger, more comfortable seating with improved access and more leg room.
This year’s season includes:
September 12 – 29, 2018: Sylvia by A. R. Gurney
Director: Chantale Plante
Romantic Comedy
When Sylvia, a beguiling stray dog, is rescued from Central Park by a New York financial trader in full mid-life crisis, his wife is not amused by the disruption. This is for everyone who has ever loved, disapproved of and/or talked out loud to a dog!
October 17 – November 3, 2018: Cliffhanger by James Yaffe
Director: Joe O’Brien
Comedy/Thriller
This ingeniously plotted and humorous thriller follows many unexpected twists and turns when a mild-mannered professor is driven to extremes to protect his reputation and retirement plans aided and abetted by his devoted wife.
November 28 – December 15, 2018: It’s a Wonderful Life by Philip Grecian based on the film by Frank Capra
Director: Josh Kemp
Christmas/Holiday
Based on the most beloved holiday classic of all time, this is the story of George Bailey who on Christmas Eve, convinced that his life has been a failure, wants to end it all. Clarence Oddbody, Angel Second Class who has been trying for 200 years to earn his wings, is sent to the rescue.
January 9 – 26, 2019: Ripcord by David Lindsay-Abaire
Director: Riley Stewart
Comedy
A seemingly harmless bet between two elderly ladies in a retirement home quickly escalates. It’s a dangerous game of one-upwomanship that reveals not just their tenacity, but also deeper truths that each would rather remain hidden.
February 13 – March 2, 2019: Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck
Director: Sarah Hearn
American Classic
Based by Steinbeck on his own powerful Depression-era novella, this is the story of two migrant California farm workers – George and his long-time companion Lenny, a gentle but dangerous man-child – who dream of a homestead of their own where they can live free off the “fat of the land”.
March 20 – April 6, 2019: Marvin’s Room by Scott McPherson
Director: Shaun Toohey
Touching Comedy
A wondrous and hilarious account of one woman’s commitment to loving others first. Bessie has been caring for her ailing aunt and father, but now it’s her turn to seek help from her long-estranged sister and teenage sons.
April 24 – May 11, 2019: A Murder is Announced by Agatha Christie adapted by Leslie Darbon
Co-Directors: Venetia Lawless, Nicole Milne
Mystery
The Queen of Mystery presents a classic puzzle of murder, mixed motives and concealed identities. After an announcement in the local paper states the time and place when a murder is to occur, the legendary Miss Marple relentlessly follows the twists and turns!
May 29 – June 15, 2019: Mending Fences by Norm Foster
Director: Barbara Kobolak
Comedy
Harry Sullivan hasn’t seen his son Drew in thirteen years, and now Drew is coming to Harry’s Saskatchewan ranch for a visit. This poignant comedy tells the story of two men who are too stubborn to give in to feelings of the heart.
July 3 – July 20 3, 2019: Unnecessary Farce by Paul Slade Smith
Director: Geoff Gruson
Farce
Two cops. Three crooks. Eight doors. Go! In a cheap motel, two inept undercover cops are trying to catch the embezzling mayor in the act of committing a crime. But who’s in which room, who pilfered what money, and who hired the Scottish hit-man with the bagpipes?
With the new season announced, OLT is inviting new and returning season patrons to confirm their subscriptions soon so as to secure their preferred seats and performance dates. Become a Classic Subscriber and enjoy all 9 plays for only $160 – that’s only $17.78 per ticket, a savings of up to $101. The OLT team will be on hand at our current and upcoming performances to facilitate subscriptions. Patrons can also visit Ottawa Little Theatre Subscriptions or contact the box office directly at 613-233-8948 to complete to purchase 2018/2019 season subscriptions.
Visit www.OttawaLittleTheatre.com and follow OLT on Facebook for up to date information about performances, events, auditions, and more.