Break a leg to the cast and crew of Mariposa Arts Theatre’s Leaving Home, which opens tonight at the Orillia Opera House. Paul Blanche, who plays Harold in the show, sent me a copy of the beautiful poster he designed for the production:
Michael Clipperton, the director, wrote an article for the February 2012 issue of The Green Room that gives some insight into the cast’s rehearsal process. He’s kindly given me permission to quote from the piece here:
“In his first play, Leaving Home, which is based in part on his relationship with his father, the late playwright David French presents a story of troubled relationships, unspoken desires, and consequences of epic proportions. He also gives us some earthy bawdiness, some classic Newfoundland humour, and an unbridled joie de vivre. Among the questions that he asks are: What is a family? What does it mean to be a father? A mother? A son? A daughter? A husband? A wife? What does it mean to work all your life to support your family, and suddenly see that family break apart? What does it mean to be so angry that you strike the person you love most? What does it mean to feel trapped in a situation that is beyond your control? Delving into the world of the Mercer family has revealed many things to me and to the cast and crew. It has been a thought-provoking, laughter-filled journey…”
The show has eight performances, Feb. 9 to 12 and Feb. 16 to 19. Tickets are available from the Orillia Opera House box office, 705-326-8011 and online at www.orilliaoperahose.ca.
Hi. I’m hoping Mrs. French or someone else who can advise me will read this. I’m playing Harold in the production of “Leaving Home” we’re doing here in Los Angeles, and I’m hoping for a little guidance about Harold. Why doesn’t ehe speak? What was in Mr. French’s mind when he came up with Harold. Any thoughts you might be willing to share would be much appreciated.
Sincerely,
Chip Bolcik