Entertainment of colonial times subject of presentation

Entertainment during Halifax’s early years, from theatre to floggings, will be the subject of a presentation at the Colchester Historeum on April 27 at 7: 30 p. m.

Alex D. Boutilier, author of ‘ The Citadel on Stage, Entertainment & Sport in Halifax to the Time of Confederation,’ will bring photos and information on recreation from1749 to 1867.

“I did my masters in Atlantic Canadian studies and when I searched through the journals of the Nova Scotia Historical Society I came across an article about the garrison theatrical tradition in Halifax,” he said. “It was only 10 pages but it spoke volumes to me.”

He found most people knew little or nothing about plays staged during that period but he kept searching until he found more information, including a diary that covered about 40 years.

He learned the British military built theatres in Halifax and staged plays that were being seen in London. At that time all acting was done by men, but women were able to take on behind- the- scenes jobs such as painting canvas backdrops.

“They performed mostly comedy and farce, and the second and third nights were for poorer people so they paid less,” said Boutilier. “What is really interesting is that all profits went to charity.”

The military also brought sporting events such as regattas to the area.

Members of the public were also drawn to gruesome events, such as hangings and floggings, for entertainment.

“Most of those who were beaten were deserters from the army,” Boutilier explained. “Some went insane they were lashed so many times, but people came from miles around to watch. They often brought picnics.”

It was about 20 years after defending his thesis that Boutilier sat down and wrote his book. His presentation at the historeum will include stories and pictures from the book, along with a little information on Adams Archibald, who was Colchester’s representative in the Nova Scotia House of Assembly.