United We Stand!
Ever wonder what was going through their minds as the Fathers of Confederation struggled to cobble together this great nation of ours? United We Stand, the new musical by Roger de la Mare, gives us a rare glimpse into the hearts and minds of these zany characters.
Seen through the eyes of “The Narrator,” who strives to find connection between herself and the long ago events that created Canada, the story unfolds with twists and turns that bring history to life.
De la Mare wrote the outdoor play to be performed at this place and time. So it is perfectly suited to its venue on the Brome County Historical Society grounds. It takes real events out of the history books, dusts them off and literally brings them out into the sunshine.
The play is produced by Knowlton Players, especially for the Arts Alive! festival now in its third year in Knowlton. Arts Alive! is a two-week festival bringing together the finest talents of the Townships
for concerts and workshops. Do yourself a favour and take a look at their website and then get involved!
United We Stand stars a terrific cast of Knowlton Players’ finest, and is full of witty banter, silly characters, and farcical tunes. Her Royal Highness, Queen Victoria even makes an appearance!
In a play that is about politicians from 150 years ago, it is amazing how the issues resonate right now in today’s
political climate. There are laugh-outloud moments when actual quotes from 150 years ago are spoken and we can’t help thinking...plus ca change, plus c’est
la meme chose! Director Vesta Jorgenson is delighted… “Who could resist the opportunity to direct a musical with Knowlton Players? I am thrilled to be collaborating with Roger de la Mare again, on this celebratory play for Canada’s birthday. Thanks to a fine cast for bringing the words to life, for valiant singing, and for some good laughs!”
When asked what inspired him to take on the writing of this play, Roger de la Mare explains, “This retrospective of Canadian Confederation was inspired by a suggestion from Peter White. As we celebrate the 150th anniversary of this important event, it is hoped that we may all reflect on the determination and foresight of the Founding Fathers as they laid the foundation for our beautiful nation. Although we have taken the liberty of adding songs and comedy, and have condensed many details in the interest of time, it is an opportunity for us to recognize how fortunate and blessed we are to be Canadian.”
United We Stand runs July 1 at 11 a.m., July 2, 7, 8 at 7 p.m. on the museum grounds at 130 Lakeside in Knowlton. In case of rain, the show will be performed inside the old courthouse. Admission is by free will offering. Proceeds from the July 1 show will go to support the historical society.
July 7 and 8, bring a chair or blanket or even a picnic if you like!
Information on the play and the Arts Alive Knowlton! festival is available at Brome Lake Books, 450-242-2242 or by visiting the website at Arts Alive Quebec and clicking on Knowlton.