‘If We Were Birds’ explores historical and contemporary conflicts
Theatre enthusiasts in Sackville are in the middle of experiencing opportunity for two weeks of performance. Leading the lineup is Mount Allison University’s production of “If We Were Birds,” directed by Jay Whitehead, premiering on March 25 and running through March 29 at the Motyer-Fancy Theatre in the Purdy Centre for the Arts.
Written by acclaimed Canadian playwright Erin Shields, “If We Were Birds” thoughtfully blends ancient Greek mythology – based on the works of Roman poet Ovid – with stark reflections on more recent 20th-century conflicts. Director Jay Whitehead discussed the play’s significance:
“This play deals with themes that are difficult and challenging, but also important to highlight in our times. We’re living in challenging times, and the play touches on the notion and the history of women .. violated and assaulted in wartime, and these things still go on .. It’s really an honour to be here at Mount A as the director for the show, as the JEA Craig Fellow this year, and to be able to lend my voice and collaborate with this company of brave student actors who are willing to tackle this material in such honest ways.”
Student set designer Erica Duncan highlighted the educational and emotional impact the play has had on her and the anticipated effect on audiences:
“It does show a lot of the things that are happening both in the past and are still very relevant today. And a lot of the parts of it that the chorus represents, like the things happening in Rwanda and Bangladesh, I had no idea.”
The play also addresses certain other examples of 20th-century atrocities against women in Japan, Nanjing (China), Berlin (Germany), and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
“If We Were Birds” seeks to foster meaningful reflection and dialogue among audiences, emphasizing theatre’s power to educate and encourage discourse on ongoing global issues. For tickets, visit www.eventbrite.ca <-.
Marshlight Festival Engages Sackville Community
Earlier in March and continuing all weekend, the Marshlight Festival (March 12–23) is delighting Sackville audiences with diverse performances.
Festival Director Ron Kelly Spurles highlighted “Effie,” a play depicting the life of courageous 1930s Australian photographer Effie Baker. Spurles noted strong community interest: “It’s sold out on Friday and Sunday, but there are still tickets available for Saturday.”
Additional Marshlight Festival events included interactive workshops like a henna ritual hosted by Dr. Patricia Kelly Spurles, staged readings such as Louise Burley’s “Everything Is Our Right,” and performances from local high school playwrights. Spurles expressed excitement over the Marshview Middle School Drama Club’s involvement: “We’re really excited to give them the opportunity to come and do it in our little theatre.”
Both “If We Were Birds” and the Marshlight Festival makes March a theatre rich month for Sackville residents, with valuable opportunities to engage with significant historical and contemporary themes through accessible theatre experiences. Tickets for “Effie” at the Marshlight Festival can be reserved at marshlight.ca. All other Marshlight events are pay-what-you-want.
