A cracking Christmas comedy
Feast leaves a lasting impression on a couple who came to celebrate a birthday
Denis and Sharon Dunne intended only to celebrate Sharon's birthday, but they got more than they bargained for at a recent Feast Dinner Theatre production at the Rodd Charlottetown.
“I’m celebrating my birthday (early) here, thanks to our son for getting us tickets,” said Sharon who, like the rest of the audience at the sold-out event, enjoyed a night that featured plenty of laughs, top-notch entertainment and a Christmas buffet.
The couple said the last time they were at a Feast Dinner Theatre show was in the 1980s when they saw "The Governor’s Feast".
"The Governor's Feast" was an original production that ran in Summerside for three consecutive years.
Since then, Feast Dinner Theatre has featured productions that reflect of current events. These have included productions from the 1930s ("The Prohibition Feast"), 1940s ("The Flyer’s Feast") and in the last number of years, everything from the 1950s and '60s to the present day.
Feast Dinner Theatre is the longest running production in Canada, celebrating 41 seasons this year. Part of the uniqueness of the shows is the interaction between the cast and the audience.
“Gerard (Ben Aitken) was amazing. He was serving our table and never – not once – did he step out of character. We were also surprised to see the reporter Jen Arsenault (Morgan Wagner) play the fiddle. She was very talented that lady, but all the cast are incredible,” said Denis.
“The catchy songs are brilliant, but the wordplay on P.E.I. themes and jokes stood out the most for us.”
The evening incorporated a full-Christmas buffet with all the trimmings.
When asked if they would return to see the summer production, "In a Rustico Minute", which is written by Warren Bain and Matt Bernard, the couple didn't hesitate and gave a resounding yes.
“We found this show very lively, entertaining, a lot of fun, and we will return,” said Denis.