Soulpepper Theatre and VideoCabaret present a new installment of the history plays series by Michael Hollingsworth. Wilfred Laurier meets the rebel Louis Riel while John A. Macdonald masterminds the deal that leads to fireworks on July 1, 1867. Previews from Jun 9, opens Jun 17 and runs to Aug 19, see website for schedule and tickets. $25-$96.
MINI REVIEW
As a critical counterpoint to Canada 150 celebrations, VideoCab revives its two instalments dealing with Confederation and the immediate aftermath. Presented in their signature visually dazzling, fast-paced, Brechtian comedy-of-manners style, Part I follows John A. Macdonalds (Richard Clarkin) whiskey-fuelled backroom dealings to align diverse provincial interests around the idea of a unified Canada, while staving off threats of Irish Republican Fenian raids. Interspersed throughout is the Catholic education and political radicalization of Metis rebel leader and father of Manitoba Louis Riel (Michaela Washburn), culminating in his first post-Confederation showdown with the newly minted nation.
NNNN Jordan Bimm
Phone: 416-866-8666
Location - Young Centre for the Performing Arts
