​Festival 2019 has wrapped and what a strong season it was! Once again we were proud to present a season of diverse, powerful and captivating live theatre and we’d would like to recognize all those who played their own important role in making this season so artistically successful!
 
Thanks to our valued sponsors and partners including Town Hall Theatre (formerly Town Hall 1873), Vos’ Independent Grocers, the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation, the Church of the Ascension, North Durham EcoWater, HandtoHeart Healing, Scugog Lake Stewards and Scugog Council for the Arts for their ongoing support. This season we also welcomed new support from Courts of Canterbury by Geranium, Sunnybrae Golf Club, West Shore Village, Old Flame Brewery, Queen Beans Coffee, The Port Social. Port Olive Oil Company and The Perfect Scoop.
 
A special thanks goes to our many private donors and our billet hosts, all making such a positive personal contribution and impact on our company experiences this summer. Welcome to our theatre family!
 
And of course, our season would not be possible without the support of the above or without the commitment and enthusiasm of our actors, artistic, production, marketing and front of house teams, our many volunteers and the staff and board of directors, not to mention our loyal patrons.
 
Together we have created an outstanding theatre season full of rich experiences and rich collaborations on and offstage.  We will see you in 2020!

Indigenous Futurisms
Tell your stories of future worlds:
a FREE theatre camp for First Nations youth (ages 12 – 15) in Durham Region
August 6 – 9, 2019
 
Make the intention - create the action and image - Speak the worlds into being.
 
From August 6-9th, 2019 Theatre on the Ridge, in relationship with Dr. Karyn Recollet (urban Cree) and the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation, offers a unique 4- day program of theatre, craft and performance to First Nations youth in theatre arts and creation. Indigenous Futurisms: Tell your stories of future worlds includes acting, movement/dance, music, and playwriting to encourage self-expression to explore the many ways we can tell our stories and share our hopes and dreams for the futures.

Participants from ages 12 – 15, will be led and guided by the professional instructors and guests of Theatre on the Ridge in the creation of collaborative and individual theatre pieces. The program is free to First Nations youth in Durham region and takes place at Town Hall 1873 in Port Perry.

​Indigenous Futurisms: Tell your Stories of future worlds has been made possible with the support of the Ontario Trillium Foundation to help access to arts-based learning opportunities and compelling artistic, cultural and heritage experiences. Learn more program details by contacting info@theatre3x60.ca and learn more about Theatre on the Ridge at www.theatreontheridge.ca. 

Our summer season continues at Town Hall 1873 in Port Perry with The Valley by Joan MacLeod, through the generous support of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation.
 
Four lives intersect and collide in The Valley. Based on true events and built on the concept of a First Nations healing circle, The Valley is a timely and powerful perspective on the complex issue of police interaction with the mentally ill.
 
Playwright, Joan MacLeod wrote The Valley in 2013, basing her story on an incident in the Vancouver Airport. The play also eerily foreshadows a similar occurance several years later on a Toronto streetcar. The beauty and power of Ms. MacLeod’s writing is its ability to share each of her characters’ stories to create empathy and compassion. Drawing on the philosophy and model of a First Nations healing circle as the overarching structure of the play, Ms. MacLeod invites the characters and audiences of The Valley to shift perspectives, see past stereotypes and misconceptions to create a better understanding of the complex issue of mental health. As Janie in the play states, “It’s called a healing circle, not a blaming circle.” and by the play’s conclusion, there is resolution and hope that healing is possible.
 
A portion of net proceeds from ticket sales from The Valley will be donated to Durham Mental Health Services (DMHS), supporting their work to raise awareness in our community of mental health issues, fighting the stigma too often associated with them, and offering support and assistance to help people suffering from mental illnesses. DMHS began operation in 1987 when a coalition of parishioners at Whitby All Saint’s Anglican Church recognized that others in the community, suffering from severe mental health issues, were in desperate need of safe, affordable housing.  Now, over 25 years later, DMHS has grown into an agency with over 180 employees. DMHS offers a range of mental health services, at locations spread throughout the Durham Region.
 
The Valley opens Thursday, July 25 at 7:30 pm, with additional performances July 27, 30, 31 and August 2 at 7:30 pm. Two matinees on Wednesday July 24 (preview) and Saturday, August 3 at 2 pm are also available. Recommended for ages 14+. Coarse language and mature subject matter.
 
Tickets are available at www.townhall1873.ca
More information on Durham Mental Health Services can be found at www.dmhs.ca
 
 

The Pine Grove Plots Performances scheduled for July 21, July 28, August 4 and August 11 have been cancelled.
​
​We regret that we are unable to offer Pine Grove Plots this season as originally advertised. Our thanks to all the individuals and organizations who have supported this project for the past two years.

We hope that, with greater resources, we will be able to bring our unique cemetery walk back in 2020. For more information, please contact us at info@theatre3x60.ca

Take a Trip to Newfoundland with Guest Director Jeannette Lambermont-Morey
 
This summer, we welcome guest director Jeannette Lambermont-Morey to Theatre on the Ridge to bring us Robert Chafe’s Tempting Providence, set in early 20th century Newfoundland. Jeannette has directed countless shows across Canada and the United States, from the Stratford Festival, to the Virginia Stage Company and including, near-by summer theatres like The Guild Festival Theatre (Scarborough) and Festival Players in Prince Edward County.
 
Jeannette has felt drawn to Tempting Providence for several reasons. It is a great story with a dynamic and inspiring glimpse into the life of remarkable real-life legend, Nurse Myra Bennett), secondly, it is an invigorating and finely-crafted piece of original theatrical writing and finally “and because I am in love with beautiful Newfoundland.”
 
In Jeannette’s words “Everything about this play fires up my imagination. It makes room for all the things I love most about the magic of theatre. There are jumps in time and place that are achieved in an instant, without scene or costume changes, allowing the story to roar ahead when necessary, inviting delicious suspense. In addition, actors morph seamlessly from one character to the next as needed by the narrative. It is a story of tenacity and endurance, and it is a love story.”
 
Tempting Providence is in preview Wednesday, July 17, 7:30 pm and opens Thursday, July 18, 7:30 pm. The run continues until July 27 and has been made possible through the generosity of production sponsor, Sunnybrae Golf Club.
 
Tickets available online at www.townhall1873.ca, by phone 905 985-8181 or in person at Town Hall 1873, 302 Queen St. Port Perry. Full Festival 2019 season information available at www.theatreontheridge.ca.

Join Rat, Mole and Badger as they try to keep their friend Toad out of mischief and save him from himself, not to mention the weasels and the skunks! The Wind in the Willows previews July 10 and opens on July 11 at Town Hall 1873 in Port Perry, running until July 20.
 
This unique adaptation of Kenneth Grahame’s classic family story has been penned by Canadian playwright, Michael Shamata and staged by the Theatre on the Ridge ensemble under the direction of company member, Barry McCluskey, who says “this collective of imaginative actors have encouraged me to see new perspectives grow from this familiar piece, set in the far-off fields of rural England”.
 
While full of adventures and fun, The Wind in the Willows is also a story about the ties of true friendship and selflessly going to any length possible for friends - even if that friend is a self absorbed Toad enamoured with automobiles! With a little music and song, clever costumes and a lot of imagination, The Wind in the Willows is a delightful way for children of all ages to spend two hours at the theatre this summer.
 
The Wind in the Willows runs July 10 (preview), July 11, 18, 20 at 2 pm and July 11, 13, 19 at 7:30 pm. Tickets on sale at the Town Hall 1873 box office at www.townhall1873.ca, 905 -985-8181 or in person at 302 Queen St., Port Perry. Children, family and group ticket packages available. For more information visit us here!

Welcome to Festival 2019

Click here for a sneak peek of this year's season!

Now celebrating its 5th year, Theatre On The Ridge continues to be Durham’s entertaining and innovative professional theatre company that captivates on and offstage. Since 2013, we have consistently committed to artistic excellence, accessibility, education and audience engagement while nurturing new artists and theatre works.
 
Things are definitely looking brighter here on the ridge…literally! With new lighting systems in both the Town Hall 1873 theatre and the patrons lounge studio, we are able to deliver more of that big city theatre experience and quality in one of Ontario’s most appealing Victorian small towns.
 
This summer, we welcome new directors, new company members and new sponsors as Festival 2019 brings six diverse productions to the stage, engaging and entertaining our audiences with classic, Canadian and international plays, including a world premiere Canadian production  – Willow Quartet Musical by Joan Burrows, Ron Cameron-Lewis and Jason Saunders. Find details on the full season here.
 
Our favorite Pine Grove Plots vignettes also return to Pine Grove Cemetery and we renew our successful partnership with the Township of Scugog for high quality summer theatre camps for youth, in addition to our own production, performance and mentorship programs. All this has been made possible through the generous support of our production & supporting sponsors – The Courts of Canterbury by Geranium, Vos’ Independent Grocers, Sunnybrae Golf Club and The Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation.
 
So come spend some time with us this summer - in the theatre, and in downtown Port Perry. Bring your family and friends. We’re close to the waterfront, restaurants, shopping and accommodations and working hard to bring you the best theatre possible, with something for everyone and great ticket packages for families and groups. Make a day or a weekend of it - our Wednesday and Saturday doubleheader deal allows you to see two plays and Port Perry all in one day!
 
The season opens on July 3rd and the Town Hall 1873 box office is open – online, by phone at 905 985-8181 or in person at 302 Queen St. Port Perry
 
From comedy to drama to Sunday concerts, 2019 is going to be a great season. Hope to see you this soon this summer!

Theatre on the Ridge launches its 5th summer festival season this July at Town Hall 1873 in Port Perry with the premiere production of a new Canadian musical.
Willow Quartet Musical has been adapted from the stage play by the same name, by Richmond Hill playwright, Joan Burrows. The original Willow Quartet was published in 2013 and is the heart warming story of the power of family roots as a rural Ontario couple recovers from grief to find their way back into each other’s heart. Theatre on the Ridge acknowledges the generous support of The Courts of Canterbury, Port Perry for making this production possible.

By 2015, positive audience response, production feedback and discussions between Ms. Burrows, Ron Cameron-Lewis and Jason Saunders, both faculty members of Sheridan College’s musical theatre program, led to extensive workshopping of the music at Sheridan College, and the development of the production now being produced by Theatre on the Ridge this summer. In the fall of 2018, Willow Quartet Musical was one of the three finalists for the Best New Musical category in the national Tom Hendry Awards, awarded annually to Canadian plays and playwrights.

For Ms. Burrows, the process of learning how to turn "script" moments into "musical lyrics" was challenging but necessary to keep the flow of the story within the constraints of a two act musical. “The workshops with the Sheridan students were thrilling, to say the least” says Ms. Burrows, “I was sitting with all these young musical talents, some of whom had already performed on Broadway…and who were so eager and invested in making this new musical work for us.”

Theatre on the Ridge Artistic Director, Carey Nicholson is also excited for the opportunity to work closely with playwrights, composer and cast to bring this new adaptation to the stage as the show’s stage director. She is joined by long time artistic collaborator, Carol Salamone as music director, who in the words of Ms. Nicholson “is the perfect artist to bring a new musical score to life.”

The cast of Willow Quartet Musical includes Lyle Corrigan from Port Perry, Chris Daniel, Roz McArthur-Keyes and Nathan Simpson from Durham Region, with guest artist Ashlie White from Toronto. Ms. White last performed in Scugog as Lily in the Port Perry Confidential’s production of Kiss Me Kate.

Production dates are July 3 @ 2 pm (Preview) and performances July 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 12 @ 7:30 pm, July 13 @ 2 pm

Tickets are now on sale at the Town Hall 1873 box office from $25 - $35 with senior/student pricing and group discount packages. Visit the box office at www.townhall1873.ca.

Pictured above, from left to right: Ashlie White, Nathan Simpson, Carey Nicholson, Carol Salamone, Roz McArthur-Keyes, Chris Daniel, Joan Burrows at the Willow Quartet Musical first readthrough. Photo by Ron Cameron-Lewis.

Theatre on the Ridge is an opportunity for….
Creation. Growth. Taking Risks
Education. Sharing. Professional Development
Magic. Play. Inspiring Imagination…
Friendship. Community. Old and new memories…
Growing artistry. Captivating audiences…
 
and the Great Canadian Giving Challenge is an opportunity for
you to make a difference to Theatre on the Ridge!
 
Each dollar donated to Theatre on the Ridge in the month of June is a chance for us to win a $10,000 donation from Canada Helps. That’s right! For as little as $3, you could be the donor who brings $10,000 to Theatre on the Ridge.
 
It’s easy. Just click here and make your donation directly through Canada Helps. You’ll receive a charitable tax receipt and your gift will automatically be included in the Great Canadian Giving Challenge – one entry for each dollar  – and your donation becomes an opportunity for:

-    professional development programs for emerging artists
-    development of new theatrical works
-    community engagement projects
-    more access to productions for schools
-    youth opportunities for performance, playmaking and technical skills
-    greater access to theatre for marginalized communities
-    improved rehearsal, storage and office space for the company
 
Now celebrating its 5th year, Theatre On The Ridge continues to be Durham’s entertaining and innovative professional theatre company that captivates on and offstage. Since 2013, we have provided opportunities for artistic excellence, accessibility, education and audience engagement while nurturing new artists and theatre works. Now that we are a registered charity, we invite you to join us in captivating audiences and growing new artists with your support.
 
A few moments of your time and a few dollars is all it takes!  June has only 30 days, so click here and make your donation now.

Theatre 3x60 (operating as Theatre on the Ridge) is a Registered Charity - #824606172RR0001

The box office is now open for Festival 2019!
July 3 – August 16
Town Hall 1873, Port Perry, Ontario
 
Once again, we captivate audiences this July and August with a diverse slate of entertaining and compelling plays – including four Canadian works, a world premiere musical, a beloved children’s classic, the quintessential Victorian comedy of manners, and a provocative look at power and sexuality.
 
This summer, Theatre on the Ridge welcomes a new director and new company members to Port Perry and brings six productions to the stage, engaging and entertaining our audiences with classic, Canadian and international plays, including a world premiere Canadian production  – Willow Quartet Musical by Joan Burrows, Ron Cameron-Lewis and Jason Saunders.
 
Also playing on the Town Hall Theatre stage are The Wind in the Willows adapted by Michael Shamata from the classic story by Kenneth Grahame, Tempting Providence by Robert Chafe with guest director Jeannette Lambermont-Morey, The Valley by Joan MacLeod, The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde and Venus in Fur by David Ives.
 
Our favorite Pine Grove Plots vignettes will return to Pine Grove Cemetery and we renew our successful partnership with the Township of Scugog for high quality summer theatre camps for youth, in addition to our own production, performance and mentorship programs.
 
The box office is now open at www.townhall1873.ca for all productions. For full production and program information visit www.theatreontheridge.ca.

Shake off the winter chill and join Theatre on the Ridge with an evening of naughty and nice songs at Old Flame Brewery on Friday, April 26. We’ve gathered some incredibly talented friends and guests together under the music direction of Carol Salamone to deliver an entertaining evening of fun and risqué musical numbers that are definitely for mature audiences only. Warning! This show will contain mature subject matter and possible offensive language! But in the spirit of all the best cabarets, emcee Stephanie Herrera of Durham Improv and music director Carol Salamone, will keep the energy playful and fun with performances by Lyle Corrigan, Chris Daniel, Nicole Daniel, Ryan Hancock, Donna Lajeunesse, Liam Lynch, Lexi MacRae, and Sara Rorabeck.
 
Many of these performers are well known to audiences in Durham and beyond, and they are appearing together for this one night only in support of Theatre on the Ridge, Durham Region’s only not for profit professional theatre company and Festival 2019, our annual summer theatre festival. In addition to great songs and entertainment, enjoy snacks, desserts and Old Flame’s famous brew. There’ll even be some great draw prizes up for grabs as well, including a pair of season passes to Festival 2019, with all proceeds to benefit Theatre on the Ridge and Festival 2019.
 
The evening starts at 7:30 pm, with the show starting at 8 pm. There’s a $25/person cover charge at the door (cash bar, snacks & desserts available), but we’re sure this event is going to be popular, so guarantee your seat by purchasing tickets in advance!

Tickets available online here.
or by phone 905 431-0977 or in person at the Scugog Council for the Arts (cash/cheque only), 181 Perry St., Unit G-1, Port Perry, 905 982-2121.
 

 

Festival 2019 Volunteer and Job Fair
February 21, 1 – 8 pm
Scugog Council for the Arts
181 Perry St. Port Perry
 
Our annual summer theatre festival is quickly becoming one of the most exciting cultural summer events in Scugog and we are actively seeking volunteers, co-op and intern placements and summer production personnel to be part of our Festival 2019 team.  

Meet with our creative, production and administrative leaders on February 21 and learn how you can get behind the scenes with Durham’s only not for profit, professional theatre company. Getting involved with Festival 2019 is a perfect way to expand your theatre knowledge, build your creative, production and management skills, and meet other like minded theatre lovers and community supporters. High school students can also earn valuable community service hours!

The Festival 2019 Volunteer and Job Fair will be held at the Scugog Council for the Arts from 1 – 8 pm, Thursday February 21st. Click here for positions available and more information on our Volunteer Program.

Get Ready to Grab Your Summer Seat!
 
Performance Dates Announced For Our Festival 2019 Summer Season
July 3 – August 16
Town Hall 1873, Port Perry, Ontario
 
Once again, we captivate audiences this July and August with a diverse slate of entertaining and compelling plays – including four Canadian works, a world premiere musical, a beloved children’s classic, the quintessential Victorian comedy and a provocative look at power and sexuality. Click here to learn more about each production!
 
There's still time to get your preferred dates and save 25% on tickets!
We've extended our pre-season gift certificate sale to February 14th! Buy here now!

FESTIVAL 2019 Performance Dates
Willow Quartet Musical
(world premiere)
book and lyrics by Joan Burrows and Ron Cameron-Lewis, music and lyrics by Jason Saunders
Preview July 3 @ 2 pm
Performances July 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 12 @ 7:30 pm, July 13 @ 2 pm

The Wind in the Willows
Adapted by Michael Shamata, from the book by Kenneth Grahame
Preview July 10 @ 2 pm
Performances July 11, 13, 19 @ 7:30 pm, July 11, 16, 18, 20 @ 2 pm

Tempting Providence
By Robert Chafe
Preview July 17 @ 7:30 pm
Performances July 18, 20, 23, 24, 26 @ 7:30 pm, July 27 @ 2 pm

The Valley
By Joan MacLeod
Preview July 24 @ 2 pm
Performances July 25, 27, 30, 31, August 2 @ 7:30 pm, August 3 @ 2 pm

The Importance of Being Earnest
By Oscar Wilde
Preview July 31 @ 2 pm
Performances August 1, 3, 6, 7, 9 @ 7:30 pm, August 10 @ 2 pm

Venus in Fur
By David Ives
Preview August 7 @ 2 pm
Performances August 8, 10, 13, 14, 15, 16 @ 7:30 pm

*productions and performance dates subject to change due to unforseen circumstances.

Looking for great gift ideas that do more than put presents under the tree?
Here’s a few suggestions that let you shop …and support the growth of live Canadian theatre and artists at Theatre on the Ridge!
 
Festival 2019 Gift Certificates
Save 25%!
Give the gift of live theatre this season and save 25% on Festival 2019 Gift Certificates!
​Only $50/pair for a single show and $300/pair of season subscription for all 6 productions.
Find season details  here and purchase online here!
 
Fill The Fridge for Theatre on the Ridge Raffle Draw
Draw Date: February 7th, 2019
At only $5 each, these tickets make great stocking stuffers! Grand Prize is a 35 bottle wine cooler fridge filled with wine (35 bottles) and 2 season subscriptions for Festival 2019. Available at the Scugog Council for the Arts (181 Perry St. Unit G1, Port Perry, 905 982-2121) or contact us at info@theatre3x60.ca
 
The Bourbon Benefit
February 7th, 2019
The Port Social, Port Perry
A perfect midwinter date night or night out! Join us at The Port Social as we sample bourbons, learn some mixology tips and enjoy a delicious buffet by Marwan’s Global Bistro. Proceeds to benefit Theatre on the Ridge. Limited tickets available. $100/person (plus $30 for gratuities and taxes).
Purchase online here!
 
The Scugog Council for the Arts Sparkle Sale
Spice Up Your Life with Theatre until December 22nd
Let us spice up your life with our rediscovered handmade Canadian pottery mugs and pots filled with spiced cocoa mix, mulling spices or seasonings, priced from $10 - $30. These perfect party host gifts are available at the SCA’s annual Sparkle Sale along with other fabulous original art and fine craft. Proceeds to benefit Theatre on the Ridge and the SCA. Visit www.scugogarts.ca for details and hours.

Get Ready to Grab Your Summer Seat and stuff some stockings!

“…Theatre On The Ridge have pulled together a cast of up-and-coming actors-on-the-cusp, and the results … are utterly spectacular”
 
Gift certificates are now available for Festival 2019 season subscription packages and patrons can take advantage of our holiday gift pricing to save 25% on either a pair of tickets for a single show or a full season.
 
Packages purchased before December 20th will also receive an added holiday bonus - purchasers will be automatically entered into a draw to win a private, in-home performance by Theatre on the Ridge artists. 
 
Our Festival 2019 Season*
Willow Quartet Musical (world premiere) book and lyrics by Joan Burrows & Ron Cameron Lewis, music and lyrics by Jason Saunders
The Wind in the Willows by John Morley (from the book by Kenneth Grahame)
Tempting Providence by Robert Chafe
The Valley by Joan MacLeod
The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde
Venus In Fur by David Ives
 
Gift Certificates may be purchased in the following amounts:
 
$50 one pair of tickets to any one production
$150 one season subscription to all six productions
$300 two season subscriptions to all six productions
 
NOTE: Gift certificates may be redeemed after March 1st and before June 1st, 2019. Gift Certificate holders may exchange their voucher during that time for specific performances and seats, which will be assigned based on availability at time of redemption. For best performance and seat selection, it is recommended that gift certificate vouchers are redeemed prior to April 1st, 2019, when general box office sales begin.
 
Click here for more season details and gift certificate link to get your summer seats now!

Follow Theatre on the Ridge on Facebook @theatreontheridgeportperry to stay informed on all the details yet to come, including news on more Festival 2019 events and programs, such as Pine Grove Plots, summer camps and a playwright in residence workshop.
*productions subject to change
 

Get Ready to Grab Your Summer Seat!
July 3 – August 16, Port Perry, Ontario
 
We will once again captivate audiences next July and August with another diverse slate of entertaining and compelling plays - three Canadian works (including a world premiere musical), a beloved children’s classic, the quintessential Victorian comedy and a provocative look at power and sexuality.

Our Festival 2019 Season*
Willow Quartet (musical world premiere)
book by Joan Burrows & Ron Cameron Lewis, music by Jason Saunders
The Wind in the Willows by John Morley (from the book by Kenneth Grahame)
Tempting Providence by Robert Chafe
The Valley by Joan MacLeod
The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde
Venus In Fur by David Ives

Click here for more details and to learn how you can save 25% on tickets with our Pre Season Holiday Gift Certificates!

Follow Theatre on the Ridge on Facebook @theatreontheridgeportperry to stay informed on all the details yet to come, including news on more Festival 2019 events and programs, such as Pine Grove Plots, summer camps and a playwright in residence workshop.
*productions subject to change

We are pleased to welcome Valerie Lecomte to the TOTR roster and are looking forward to 2 great acting skills workshops that Valerie is bringing to Utica Hall.
​Read on to learn more!

Meet Valerie
Valerie Lecomte is French and Canadian and has been acting for twenty years. She has taken part in feature films and short films, in France and Canada. She loves to play on stage too and has also directed and acted in her own short film: À Coeur Ouvert (Paris, France). She is now in the process of producing a new short film.

Valerie has been teaching acting techniques since 2009 (Vancouver and Toronto). For the last four years, she has embraced the Michael Chekhov Technique as an actor and a teacher, attending international workshops offered by the Michael Chekhov Association (MICHA, USA).

On Camera with Valerie Lecomte
Saturday November 10 & 17
1 – 4 pm
(2 days)
 Pre-registration is required by November 6th.
In this On-camera workshop, participants become familiar with on-camera work, learning how to prepare a scene and to play it with in directions that can be used in the room or on set. Participants will gain confidence through exercises in front of the camera.
More details and program fees at www.theatreontheridge.ca/utica-hall.html

Coming in January!
An Introduction to Michael Chekov Technique
With Valerie Lecomte
January 12 & 13, 2019
1 – 4 pm
(2 days)
 Pre-registration is required by January 6th, 2019
Through a prepared monologue learn the important tools of the Michael Chekov technique including qualities of movement, centers, psychological gestures and more. More details coming soon!
 More details and program fees at www.theatreontheridge.ca/utica-hall.html

Get ready for Hallowe’en with two great events happening at Utica Hall on October 20th!
Costume Sale
Saturday, October 20
9:30 – 4 pm,
Utica Hall
Find the perfect costume and accessories at our costume sale. We’ve gone through our costume collection and are parting with many great pieces for youth, men and women, including unique one of a kind items, prom and formal wear, wigs, hats and other accessories. All items reasonably priced and all proceeds to benefit the programs of Theatre on the Ridge.
 

Specialty & SFX Make-Up Workshop with Shannon Fennell
Saturday, October 20
10 am – 4 pm
Utica Hall
Pre-registration required by October 13!
Join Shannon for this 2 part workshop and learn a variety of specialty stage and costume special effects make-up looks. From animals and fantasy characters to zombies, Shannon can help you create your Hallowe’en look.
The morning will feature Shannon demonstrating several classic specialty and special effects looks and in the afternoon, it’s hands on as she helps you build your own specific make-up look. Participants will be able to indicate in advance which make up looks they are most interested in.
Click here for full details and to register!

​Photo by D. Zwicker

Mondays & Fridays, 10:00 to 11:30 am
Single Drop In Class - only $10
 
Everyone needs to rebalance and re-energize their body after the demands of specialized or repetitive activity and too much time spent behind a computer. Discover the benefits of moving well and realizing your full movement potential, including the value of incorporating stretch, strength and breathing into your body maintenance philosophy.
 
This non-aerobic class works with gravity, body weight, breath and relaxation to improve overall strength, flexibility, muscle tone, posture and alignment. The class structure is built on proven stretch and strength sequences, as taught and developed by Carey, while on faculty with The School of the Toronto Dance Theatre for over 15 years. These sequences have their roots in Nicklaus, Feldenkreis, and yoga techniques and are supplemented with additional sequences drawn from the work of neuromuscular therapist Irene Dowd. It is particularly helpful with pre-season sports conditioning, injury prevention and recovery, stress reduction and counters the negative impact of extensive sitting, now being recognized as a major contributor to poor physical wellbeing.
 
Toronto’s The Globe and Mail has quoted Carey as saying “Healthy posture is natural and relaxed (and) alignment is a collaboration of all body parts working together. It’s a matter of feet that are well aligned, legs that are strong enough to allow the pelvis to sit naturally and abdominals that support the spine. Your body has to work as a whole to stand together. The whole process (of Moving Well) is designed so that when you stand up at the end of the class, you’re bringing everything together in one motion. It’s about having a body that’s capable of supporting itself in an energy-efficient way.”
 
Carey has an extensive background in dance and movement and received her professional training at both George Brown College and The School of the Toronto Dance Theatre. She has taught in the general and professional training programs at both schools and also in Durham, with the Davis Studio of Dance, Island Dance Studio and independently. She is currently the artistic director of Theatre on the Ridge and has personally practiced Moving Well for over 30 years. She believes physical self-awareness and mobility are essential to the art of performance and of living well.
 
Classes are held Monday and Fridays from 10 am to 11:30 pm at Utica Hall 13990 Marsh Hill Rd, Port Perry, ON L9L 1Z5. (Southwest corner of Goodwood Rd (Durham 21) and Marsh Hill Rd, Utica).
 
Moving Well sequences are moderate to almost intense and are suitable for adults and young adults of all ages and occupations. We recommend you consult a health care practitioner before undertaking any new form of physical activity. Visit us at ​http://www.theatreontheridge.ca/utica-hall.html for full program fees, details and requirements.
 

Take 2 Minutes of your time and you may win 2 Seasons Passes for Festival 2019
 
Captivating live theatre doesn’t exist without an audience and we have a special thanks for our Festival 2018 patrons. Your generosity of support by attending multiple performances, purchasing tickets for the art auction and spreading the word to friends and associates helped to make this summer’s Festival so successful!
 
You are an essential part of our Festival and, as we begin to plan for next year, we would like to hear from you. Take a moment before September 15 to follow the link below and complete a short survey (approx. 2 - 5 minutes of your time). Your answers will be kept confidential, unless you wish to accept our thanks for your time, by entering your email for a draw for 2 seasons passes to Festival 2019.
 
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/FP9NZHF
 
Please complete the survey by September 15th to be eligible for the seasons pass draw.

We would like to acknowledge the overwhelming support for Festival 2018 (July 5 to August 18) at Town Hall 1873 and other locations in Port Perry. It was a season of powerful and captivating theatre to be proud of and we would like to thank our patrons, supporters, venues, volunteers, sponsors, partners, funders, and believers for making this season so successful!
 
Special thanks to Vos’ Independent Grocers, Town Hall 1873, Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation, Scugog Council for the Arts, Township of Scugog, Utica Community Hall, Church of the Ascension, Prince Albert Community Hall, Pine Grove Cemetery, Scugog Memorial Public Library, M. Meyers & R. Henderson, Heather Chapman, Canadian Tire Port Perry, North Durham EcoWater, Hark Nijjar Photography, Puckrin & Latreille Real Estate, HandtoHeart Healing, Legacy Vintage, Framer’s Gallery, Domino's Pizza, Willowtree Farm, META4 Contemporary Craft Gallery, Pamela Meacher, Libby Burns, Grant Lucas, anonymous and the golden girls of Perry St.
 
We would have not been able to accomplish so much without the support of the above or without the commitment and enthusiasm of our actors, artistic, production, marketing and front of house teams, and the staff and board of directors, not to mention the word of mouth provided by so many patrons.
 
Festival 2018 brought us new insights, new experiences, new friends and great theatre in a great community. Thanks again to all and we look forward to Festival 2019!
 
Sincerely,
 
Carey Nicholson, Artistic Director
Ruth Spearing, President
 

​Volunteer Opportunities #2 – Theatre on the Ridge   
Festival 2018
 
Production Support
Festival 2018 is just around the corner and we’re now looking for production support. Help keep our Festival 2018 productions running smoothly during each performance by volunteering for props or wardrobe supervision, or technical operator. If you are a theatre lover and have experience backstage with either props or wardrobe, we have lots of dates available with several shows requiring your support!
 
We’re looking for:
Props Supervision 
Wardrobe Supervision
Technical Operators
 
Props supervision: Be available before, during and after performances. Assist with keeping props organized and in place backstage, and prepare and restock live props (food) and serving containers.
Must have previous properties experience. 
A commitment to an entire production is preferred but ad hoc/show by show support is also welcome. Approx. 4 hrs/day.
 
Performance Dates & Productions for Props Supervision
Melville Boys 
July 5/6/7/12/13/14 @7:30 pm
July 8/11 @2pm
 
Peter Pan
July 11/19/20/21/26/27 @ 7:30 pm
July 14/15/18/28 @2pm
 
The Glass Menagerie
August 1/3/4/15/17 @7:30 pm
August 11/12 @2pm
 
Wardrobe Supervision: Be available before, during and after performances.  On hand backstage in the need of emergency costume maintenance and repairs, sort and reorganize costumes as required pre and post show.
Must have previous wardrobe and costume construction experience. 
A commitment to an entire production is preferred but ad hoc/show by show support is also welcome. Approx. 4 hrs/day.
 
Performance Dates & Productions for Wardrobe Supervision
Melville Boys 
July 5/6/7/12/13/14 @7:30 pm
July 8/11 @2pm
 
Peter Pan
July 11/19/20/21/26/27 @ 7:30 pm
July 14/15/18/28 @2pm
 
Armstrong’s War
July 24/28/31, Aug. 2/8.9 @7:30 pm
August 4 @ 2 pm
 
The Glass Menagerie
August 1/3/4/15/17 @7:30 pm
August 11/12 @2pm
 
The Drowning Girls
August 7, 10, 11, 14, 16 @ 7:30 pm
August 8 @ 2pm
 
Technical Operators – Lighting:
Be available before, during and after performances. Lighting board and/or spotlight operator positions available. 
Previous experience preferred but an aptitude for technical equipment and computers is essential. 
A commitment to an entire production is preferred. Approx. 4 hrs/day.
 
Performance Dates & Productions for Technical Operators - Lighting
Melville Boys – lighting board
July 5/6/7/12/13/14 @7:30 pm
July 8/11 @2pm
 
Peter Pan – lighting board and spotlight
July 11/19/20/21/26/27 @ 7:30 pm
July 14/15/18/28 @2pm
 
The Glass Menagerie - lighting board & spotlight
August 1/3/4/15/17 @7:30 pm
August 11/12 @2pm
 
The Drowning Girls - lighting board & spotlight
August 7, 10, 11, 14, 16 @ 7:30 pm
August 8 @ 2pm
 
Location:  Town Hall 1873, Port Perry
 
Volunteers will have the opportunity to see dress rehearsals of all productions
 
Time commitment: 
Roughly 4 hours per performance. You may sign on for as many days as you want. NOTE: high school students may use hours towards required community service contribution.
 
If interested in volunteering for one or more performances, please email:
info@theatre3x60.ca
 
Show details available at www.theatreontherridge.ca

One of Port Perry’s best events is happening July 1st in Palmer Park and we’ll be there! Look for our booth alongside the Scugog Council for the Arts from noon to 6 pm to fish for great ticket deals and sample the entries in our Bake The Best Turnip Cake on the Lake contest. At 5 pm, stop by the gazebo sneak peek performances of some of our festival 2018 summer shows!
​
Can you bake a better turnip cake than Mary?
​If you think you can, enter our Best Turnip Cake on the Lake contest!

In The Melville Boys, our opening play of Festival 2018, one of the characters bakes a turnip cake for the dance. She is not a cook and the cake comes back to the cottage relatively intact as “everyone was too full after all the other food”. We’re now on the hunt for a turnip cake that will have people licking their plates clean!

​Turnip cake entries can be brought to our promotion booth in Palmer Park, Port Perry on Canada Day by 12 noon and we’ll be invite visitors to have their say on the tastiest cake. Entries must be accompanied by a list of all ingredients to be eligible.

The most popular entry will be selected based on tasters’ choice and we’ll be in touch with the baker for the recipe so that we can serve it up at our opening performance of The Melville Boys on July 5. The baker will also be presented with 2 tickets to the show. Questions? Contact us at info@theatre3x60.ca!

This Canada Day - Go Fishing with Lee and Owen Melville!

​We've got a classic fish pond game at our Canada Day booth in Palmer Park and it's filled with great ticket deals! For a small donation, cast your line and see what you catch! From a $5 discount coupon to a season’s pass, we’ve got fish of all sizes for all our productions of Festival 2018. Proceeds will support Theatre on the Ridge education and community programs.