Prospect Playhouse transformed into Green Gables for latest production

(l-r) Anne Shirley (Jessica McDowall) addresses Marilla 
Cuthbert (Louise Rigdon) while Matthew Cuthbert (Bill 
Bewley) looks on

Wednesday, February 25, 2004

Despite some bumps and bruises along the way, the cast and crew of the new Prospect Playhouse production of Anne Of Green Gables, charmed their way into the hearts of the first audience last week. 

The play, written by Lucy Maud Montgomery, takes place on Prince Edward Island, Canada, at the turn of the 20th century. It depicts the early years of Anne Shirley, a young orphan girl adopted by sister and brother, Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert. The play describes the quirky redhead's adventures as she fumbles her way through her teens in Avonlea, Green Gables. 

Jessica McDowall came across as a delightfully precocious Anne Shirley. In fact, during the odd time when nerves overtook her and lines escaped her, audience members were almost convinced the feisty spirit of Anne Shirley was manifesting itself on stage and all was forgiven. 

Louise Rigdon charmed the audience with her performance as the rough-diamond Marilla. Ms Rigdon, no stranger to the stage, mastered the sweet interior and tough exterior that is Ms Cuthbert. She never wavered from the truly loving character of Anne's adoptive mother, which was exemplified most strongly during tearjerker scenes near the end of the play. 

The children best demonstrated the hard work put into the production. 

Stacie Sybersma, playing Anne's best friend, Diana Barry, was the quintessential best friend when helping to transform Anne from a young, feisty child into a growing teenager as they dressed for a dance. 

The role of romantic lead is no easy task, even for the professionals, but Thomas Newlove, in his role as Gilbert Blythe, demonstrated a flare for swooning. His repeated efforts to win the heart of Anne Shirley did not go unnoticed by the females in the audience. 

Honourable mentions go to Sabrina Douglas, as Josie Pye, for her unmatched ability to enunciate and project, and to Dominick Bodden whose gentlemanly ways convinced the audience he was wise beyond his years. 

While fine-tuning was needed for some areas, namely with the timing and lighting, Anne Of Green Gables proved to be a warm and delightful production, appropriate for most ages. The ensemble was enchanting and genuinely appeared to be having a wonderful time. 

Prospect Playhouse's rendition of Anne Of Green Gables runs Fridays, Saturdays and Sunday until 7 March. 

Next on the roster is, Dracula: Lucy's Kiss, which begins 15 April. 

For more information or to reserve tickets, call the box office at 949-5054.

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