Immigration challenges explored in Bumbershoot’s ‘New Canadian Kid’

One of Canada’s most widely produced plays for young audiences will go on stage at Bumbershoot Theatre, May 18-28.

New Canadian Kid explores the challenges faced by a young boy as he adapts to life in a new country. The production will be directed by Jennifer Furlong, who is completing her master’s degree in interdisciplinary studies at UBC Okanagan. Furlong brings a wealth of theatre and performance experience from all over Atlantic Canada. The lead roles will be performed by the mother-and-son team of Kim and Thomas Fournier.

Thomas plays the role of Nick, a young boy from an imaginary country called Homeland, and Kim will play the mother of the family that moves to Canada.

In his new surroundings, Nick is forced to grapple with his fears of a new culture and language, as well as hostile classmates who taunt him for being different.

Thomas will be remembered for his appearance in Willy Wonka in Bumbershoot’s earlier days, while Kim directed 2B WUT UR last November. Rounding out the cast will be Alyssa Quigley as Mench and Hawk Mendoza as Mug.

Quigley’s earlier Bumbershoot appearance was in The Railway Children, while Mendozak appeared in the recent Animals production.

New Canadian Kid will be presented on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings at 6:30 p.m., with Saturday and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m., May 18-21 and 25-28. The theatre is located at No. 125, 1295 Cannery Lane. Tickets are available at the Bumbershoot Box Office, online or by calling 778-478-0142. As usual, a pizza night will be featured on the first Saturday evening performance on May 20 with free pizza in co-operation with Murray’s Pizza in Westbank. The popular pajamas, milk and cookie night will be offered on the opening Thursday show on May 18.