"I love theatre! This is the greatest feeling! This is such a natural high! What an amazing night!"
These words were exclaimed by a very excited Everett just after performing as James on the opening night in Fergus for Playful Fox Productions' James and the Giant Peach play. Everett has been on this theatre journey since enrolling in Theatre Ancaster's Skill Builder program in 2021, but this was definitely his favorite moment on stage.
Now, over a month removed from that incredible weekend, it is still an event he talks about with overflowing joy and justified pride.
Speaking of pride, I was a dad bursting with it as I got the treasure of performing alongside him and witnessed him truly shine, proving he deserved the title role. It has been a gift watching him fall in love with theatre and grow as a performer. You might want to get those autographs soon because they could be worth something in a few decades, though I am admittedly affected by extreme bias and daddy goggles.
Everett's last few years in theatre have made him a stronger performer and gifted him with more confidence. He is definitely an introvert and has dealt with the dreaded social awkwardness many experience growing up. In the last few years, I've noticed him stepping out of his comfort zone to introduce himself and start conversations with new people. He has become a very strong public speaker, earning praise from his teachers for his presentations. What makes me the most proud, though, is his ability to invite and encourage those who feel like outsiders or are new.
James and the Giant Peach will always be special to me because it was Everett's first lead role. This show was also memorable because our tiny cast came together to put on an entertaining and impactful performance in less time than usual. Originally, the production was slated to be a 30-plus cast Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. However, unforeseen circumstances meant it had to be shoved back into the closet, and this little play took its place.
Under these challenging conditions, we still put on a crowd-pleasing show that was a hit with the Fergus audience. This achievement was all the more impressive considering how quickly director Malakai Fox and his partner Marissa Wilson devised blocking, costumes, sets, and music under a tight deadline. The cast bonded quickly, and everyone did an amazing job immersing themselves into their characters.
The play may have been a pivot from the original plans, but it turned into a surprise gift for Everett and me. He got to lead as James, and I got to perform in a play based on a novel by one of my favorite childhood authors. Playing the fun characters of Earthworm and the nasty Aunt Spiker was a joy. It also boosted my confidence because much like when I played Mr, Beaver, I was a crowd favorite, receiving magical reactions from the audience.
I was surrounded by a ridiculously talented cast and some incredibly great human beings. Kai and Marissa once again demonstrated their ability to connect with the audience and bring their characters to life.
This was my first time performing with Sadia Malik, who played Ladybird. We decided to play it as if there was a slight romance between Ladybird and Earthworm, which added a fun dynamic. She has an amazing stage presence and brought warmth to the role. Her kindness and friendliness made it a privilege to share the stage with her. She is an immensely talented actor but an even better person, and I hope we collaborate again in the future.
Richard Ouellette, my partner in crime as Aunt Sponge, also portrayed the Caterpillar, who was Earthworm's bane. His talent and comic timing made it a joy to play off him, and he kindly supported me during moments of anxiety.
Comet Daniels and Colby Reynolds took on a variety of roles, including reporters, sailors, seagulls, and sharks. Watching them grow as performers was inspiring. This is my second show with Colby, and I appreciate his thoughtful and helpful presence. Everett loves being around him for their shared love for fantasy and Magic: The Gathering.
Behind the scenes, Rob Curwain worked his lighting magic, and Emily excelled with sound. Jill Pye's costumes and set designs brought the story to life, and her personality and joy instantly uplifted our cast. Megan Chambers once again provided a few costume pieces for me, as it appears to be destiny that I borrow something from her every show.
This show was memorable not just for the performances but for the friendships and the expansion of my theatre family. It was a role that allowed me the freedom to interpret and bring my character to life. Like my role as Mr. Beaver in a previous production, this part had a substantial impact on setting the tone and driving the story forward.
The true highlight, however, will always be seeing Everett have the time of his life and shine as James. It was a fantastic performance, and I am thrilled to watch him grow more confident and even stronger with each show. This play will always hold a special place in his memory—and mine.
What was a cherished memory for you in 2024?
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