Local Business Profile: London Community Players theatre productions a city gem
London Community Players has long been touted as “London's best kept secret,” says its general manager, Karen Killeen. But this year it's looking to create big buzz in the city by bringing a season full of “unique, challenging and entertaining” theatre.
“I've brought friends to the theatre who say, ‘We had no idea (about this place), but now we do!'” says Killeen. “That's what we want everyone to say.”
The way the LCP plans on generating the buzz is by continuing to raise the bar on the quality of their productions by offering a “wide range of styles,” says Killeen.
The upcoming 2009-2010 season offers shows that are madcap, quirky, haunting, and magical. From Neil Simon's “Plaza Suite” to the thought-provoking “Mourning Dove” by Emil Sher, based on the case of Saskatchewan's Robert Latimer who killed his daughter suffering from a severe case of cerebral palsy, these plays have got something for everyone.
“Mourning Dove,” in particular, is one that Killeen hopes draws audience members because of its moral ambiguity.
“It doesn't give you the answer, it doesn't say who's wrong or who's right,” said Killeen. “At the end, no matter who you are or what your belief system is, you'll hope you're never in that position because (you think), ‘I don't know what I'd do.'”
The LCP is no stranger to intense theatre. Doing a variety of shows from the disturbing to the darling, and doing them well, has been part of its 36-year history. “They've lasted,” says Killeen of the organization, particularly because of the diversity of the plays and the challenges they present to the volunteers putting them on and audience members.
“We don't do a whole year of fluff or British living room comedies,” she said.
This means that while subscribers and theatre-goers may think they don't like a certain genre, they'll definitely develop some appreciation of the breath of topics.
“You've got to expose people to a lot of different types and emotions,” Killeen explains.
But every theatre can benefit from a little more exposure, and that's exactly what Killeen, who became the general manager last year, is setting out to do by raising awareness and partnering with other community groups this year. They're working with London's Dance Steps for the Christmas favourite, “The Nutcracker,” this December.
The volunteer-driven operation is also focused on bringing in a younger crowd of theatre, whether it's through their volunteer program that lets individuals learn production skills like lighting or with their student-friendly prices. The Thursday before every opening night is a public viewing night — where seats are just $10.00, and any other night, they're only $14.00 for students. For those really strapped for cash, you can volunteer to usher and see the show for free. Either way you choose, you're in for a way cheaper night of entertainment than at the movie theatre.
If you're interested in checking out the London Community Players new season, or you want to get involved, visit www.londoncommunityplayers.com or call 519-432-1029.
“I've brought friends to the theatre who say, ‘We had no idea (about this place), but now we do!'” says Killeen. “That's what we want everyone to say.”
The way the LCP plans on generating the buzz is by continuing to raise the bar on the quality of their productions by offering a “wide range of styles,” says Killeen.
The upcoming 2009-2010 season offers shows that are madcap, quirky, haunting, and magical. From Neil Simon's “Plaza Suite” to the thought-provoking “Mourning Dove” by Emil Sher, based on the case of Saskatchewan's Robert Latimer who killed his daughter suffering from a severe case of cerebral palsy, these plays have got something for everyone.
“Mourning Dove,” in particular, is one that Killeen hopes draws audience members because of its moral ambiguity.
“It doesn't give you the answer, it doesn't say who's wrong or who's right,” said Killeen. “At the end, no matter who you are or what your belief system is, you'll hope you're never in that position because (you think), ‘I don't know what I'd do.'”
The LCP is no stranger to intense theatre. Doing a variety of shows from the disturbing to the darling, and doing them well, has been part of its 36-year history. “They've lasted,” says Killeen of the organization, particularly because of the diversity of the plays and the challenges they present to the volunteers putting them on and audience members.
“We don't do a whole year of fluff or British living room comedies,” she said.
This means that while subscribers and theatre-goers may think they don't like a certain genre, they'll definitely develop some appreciation of the breath of topics.
“You've got to expose people to a lot of different types and emotions,” Killeen explains.
But every theatre can benefit from a little more exposure, and that's exactly what Killeen, who became the general manager last year, is setting out to do by raising awareness and partnering with other community groups this year. They're working with London's Dance Steps for the Christmas favourite, “The Nutcracker,” this December.
The volunteer-driven operation is also focused on bringing in a younger crowd of theatre, whether it's through their volunteer program that lets individuals learn production skills like lighting or with their student-friendly prices. The Thursday before every opening night is a public viewing night — where seats are just $10.00, and any other night, they're only $14.00 for students. For those really strapped for cash, you can volunteer to usher and see the show for free. Either way you choose, you're in for a way cheaper night of entertainment than at the movie theatre.
If you're interested in checking out the London Community Players new season, or you want to get involved, visit www.londoncommunityplayers.com or call 519-432-1029.
