When I learned that Shipyard Kitchen Party was returning to Port Hope’s Capitol Theatre for a limited run, I was eager to see their latest production.
Set two years after Group of Seven painter Tom Thomson’s mysterious death, this unique blend of theatre and concert gently tells a touching story. Tom’s friend (played by Dean Hollin), mentor A. Y. Jackson (played by Craig Ashton), and lover Winnie Trainor (played by Julie LeBlanc) have all responded to a letter written by the painter’s sibling, seeking to learn more about Tom’s impact on others. The actors are clothed in realistic garments from the turn of the 20th century during World War 1. That’s a nice touch to the storytelling.
The staging is simple. Guest artists Victoria Yeh and Jason Redman, along with Kitchen Party performers Sacha Law, John Eaton and Jason Murphy, appear in a line-up upstage. Stage right features Tom’s mentor, the centre his friend, and stage left his lover. High-definition imagery of Thomson’s and the Group of Seven’s artwork is projected above the singers.
What’s appealing about Tom Thomson’s Wake is its East Coast charm, both in song and storytelling. This opening-night production exemplifies a true artistic ensemble effort in telling a story that remains genuinely Canadian. I had my notebook ready to take notes, but decided not to. Instead, I closed it, put it away and simply listened, absorbing what was being told and sung to us.
I even learned a bit more about Thomson and now want to venture up north to Owen Sound to see his grave. Cousin Gary, make room for me — you may have an overnight visitor.
What was also touching about opening night?
Once the artists took their curtain call, they rushed offstage to greet the audience and thank them for coming.
That’s bona fide class.
And that’s something Canadians would do.
Go and see Shipyard Kitchen Party’s Tom Thomson’s Wake.
Performances continue March 7 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, March 8 at 2 p.m. at the Capitol Theatre, 20 Queen Street, Port Hope. For tickets, visit capitoltheatre.com, purchase at the door, or call (905) 885-1071.
