BOWDEN — Actors and crew are putting the finishing touches on another fun, entertaining dinner theatre May 2 and 3 at the Paterson Community Centre in Bowden.
This year’s show is Alibis, by Peter Kennedy and as always, is a fundraiser for Bowden Expanding Horizons, which operates the Paterson Community Centre.
“When famous actress Primavera Donna throws a party and winds up dead, it's up to the guests to figure out who and how, and why the hired help is so annoying,” a release about the play says.
“As the storm outside rages and the body count mounts, the guests must contend with interruptions, shocking revelations, tacky special effects, and the arrival of a mysterious visitor.
“The play is set in 1940s England and is written as a play within a play.
“There are times when the characters ‘break the fourth wall’ and engage directly with the audience or other cast mates, breaking the barrier between the fiction of the play and the audience itself.”
Kim Urichuk manages the Bowden Community Centre and bookings for the facility. She’s in her ninth year with the theatre troupe.
“We like to change it up a little bit every year. We challenge ourselves in the level of difficulty of script selection, in the performance and in the set build,” Urichuk says in the release.
“This year, the play still encompasses the slap-stick type comedy we are known for, and there is an element of CLUE ‘who done it,’ which is fun.
“The hours required to bring this fundraising weekend to fruition is just incredible. We have a truly dedicated bunch of fun, energetic and dynamic volunteers,” she adds.
The play is being presented under the direction of Alahna Hunter and Joanne Keevil. Steve Keevil works with sound and lighting to create the experience of a dark and stormy night.
The theatre group began as the St. Andrews Players back in 2003.
When that church closed, the group became the Bowden Town Theatre.
Its annual dinner theatre, held on the first weekend of May each year, is considered the biggest fundraiser for the non-profit group.
The plays also give many Bowden and district residents the opportunity to expand their creative talents by acting, directing, set building, promoting, and more.
It is also a great opportunity for local people to enjoy live theatre.
“We have actors that have performed with the group for over 15 years, and one that has just joined this year,” Urichuck says.
This year, Bowden Town Theatre has partnered with Bowden Grandview School Drama Club who will perform a short play which will serve as the opener to the main show.
On Friday, May 2, doors open at 5:30 p.m. On Saturday they open at 5 p.m. Seating is on a first-come-first-served basis.
The event includes a $65 prime rib meal, dessert bar, cash bar and a silent auction.
Urichuk notes that the desserts are donated by local community residents.
“Each year they outdo themselves,” she says.
