September 26 to October 11, 2008
Although the topic - cancer - is grim, Edson says that Wit is about love and knowledge, grace and redemption. She uses the word “wit” not so much to convey a sense of comedy (although there are several moments of intelligent humour) but rather to reflect the natural ability to perceive and understand. In order to convey all these concepts, Edson says, she had to write about their opposites: “So the play is about miscommunication and misunderstanding and posturing and arrogance," and while it is a play about death and dying, what seems to have impressed audiences is the lesson it presents for the living.
November 14 to 29, 2008
Originally written for BBC-TV, Alan Bennett's Talking Heads is matchless comedy. The three monologues chosen from the series for our stage production - A Lady of Letters, Her Big Chance and Miss Fozzard Finds Her Feet - each weave Bennett's sharp and luminous descriptions with brilliant comic moments to create the eccentric lives of his very English characters: a compulsive letter-writer, a struggling film actress, and a lady with an unusual chiropodist.
January 16 to 31, 2009
This adaptation of Pride and Prejudice was first produced at Lifeline Theatre in Chicago during 1986. The script won a Joseph Jefferson Citation for New Work. A second staging at Lifeline Theatre in 1991 led to a performance as part of the Chicago Theatre's on the Air radio program. In 1999, the play was rewritten for the Festival Stage at the Stratford Festival of Ontario, where it had a successful run.
March 11 to 28, 2009
Since 1989, the New Ideas Festival has showcased never-before-produced short scripts, in an engaging mix of stories and styles. This annual juried festival also affords the audience an opportunity to give feedback to writers, directors and actors. Join us for a new lineup each week, and get involved via optional talkback sessions or feedback forms. Have your say in the development of new Canadian theatre!
April 17 to May 2, 2009
Closer is an unflinching dissection of the relationships of four Londoners in the mid-1990s. Alice, an adventurous young woman, falls for Dan, a
struggling obituary writer who is inspired by her frank sexuality. When their relationship levels, he meets and becomes obsessed with Anna, a successful photographer, eventually impersonating her online. This deception sparks her connection with Larry, an upwardly mobile dermatologist. The ensuing maze of affairs follows a bitter and complex path over four years as they each struggle to achieve true intimacy. Dark, funny and uncompromising, this award-winning play by Patrick Marber questions the nature of physical and emotional bonds.
WARNING: language; adult situations
ALUMNAE THEATRE COMPANY
70 Berkeley Street
Toronto, Ontario • M5A 2W6
Phone: 416-364-4170
Email: contactus@alumnaetheatre.com