Submitted. Fraser Valley audiences are in for an exciting year of mystery, intrigue and adventure as Gallery 7 Theatre presents its 27th annual season of theatre starting this October. Featuring an eclectic mix of compelling and highly entertaining plays, a new one-act showcase, a seasonal offering of Christmas music and storytelling in partnership with Vancouver’s Pacific Theatre, and a riotous night of clean comedy-improv, there’s something in the coming season to satisfy every taste.
“This season, we’re exploring the mysteries of life in all their glorious wonder and their riveting complexities,” says Gallery 7 Theatre’s Artistic Director, Ken Hildebrandt. “From a riotous adventure about finding magical treasure to exploring the mysteries of faith, and from seeking a seemingly unattainable miracle to the suspense of a classic ‘whodunit’, we’ve got an exciting line-up of entertaining and thought-provoking plays in store that will leave people breathless.”
The mainstage season kicks off in November with a production of Peter and the Starcatcher, the hilarious musical comedy about how a young orphan becomes the legendary Peter Pan. The season continues with a production of Doubt, the Pulitzer Prize-winning drama by John Patrick Shanley followed by William Gibson’s The Miracle Worker, the astonishing tale of how deaf, blind and mute Helen Keller is rescued from her dark reality by her loving but precocious teacher, Anne Sullivan. The mainstage series culminates with the classic Agatha Christie ‘who-dunnit’, The Mousetrap, in May, 2018.
“That’s not all,” continues Hildebrandt. “We’ve put together an exciting second-stage series that will showcase more of the outstanding theatrical talent we have in our region”.
In October, the theatre will present a new One Act Play Showcase, featuring an eclectic mix of short plays featuring the work of artists from through-out the Lower Mainland. “I’m really excited about this new feature in our season,” says Hildebrandt. “We’re expanding opportunities for artists while showcasing a lesser performed theatrical form in the one act play. The showcase gives us the opportunity to stretch boundaries while sticking true to our mandate”.
In December, Gallery 7 will partner with Vancouver’s Pacific Theatre in presenting Christmas Presence, an annual favourite featuring a potpourri of seasonal music and stories sure to lift spirits just in time for the holidays. Then, in March, the always funny, always amazing Panic Squad and Friends take to the stage with their unique brand of hilarious clean comedy improv.
Season pass packages are now available for purchase, offering significant savings over individual ticket prices. For more information on Gallery 7 Theatre’s 2017/2018 “Mysteries of Life” Theatre season, including complete play descriptions and schedules, or to order season passes, please visit www.gallery7theatre.com. “Don’t miss this outstanding year of quality live theatre,” concludes Hildebrandt. “You’re in for a great season of heart, soul and mind-nourishing entertainment.”
Pictured: Ken Hildebrandt, photo by Dianna Lewis Photography