The Bank Theatre is set to host Cheesy Valentine, a play written by local playwright Barry Bergen and adapted as a radio play, directed by Leanne Hayes. Space is limited for this special Valentine weekend treat, with theatre seating retracted to create a bistro-like setting for the two-day event.
Cheesy Valentine will transport you from Leamington, Ontario, to the European cheese mecca of Kaskaval for a contest that puts the ease back in cheese making, the oil back in the Royal stiff upper lip and the rad back in radio. Add to the fun, the cheesy storyline, the beautiful accompaniment of live music on piano, along with charcuterie and wine served to patrons, and you are in for a fun, cheesy, romantic evening with your Valentine or your friend.
Director Leanne Hayes said, “What’s a radio play?! You get to be part of our live studio audience, enjoy a little wine and charcuterie in a bistro setting, while we put on our best voices and tell you a love story. Don’t dis a brie, come and see for yourself! Are you ready to ride the airwaves with us? We’re ready to take you away!”
“Although this is Leanne’s directorial debut at The Bank Theatre, we are all really excited about this fun comedy on Valentine’s weekend,” said President Katherine Albuquerque. “Leanne is working very hard to bring you a quality, fun show, and it gives us a chance to showcase what The Bank Theatre is capable of doing, including showcasing veteran actors and welcoming newbies to the stage.”
Along with mentor Renata Solski and producer of the show Katherine Albuquerque’s assistance, Leanne (director and narrator) auditioned and brought on recently retired Cirque du Soleil composer and pianist Roger Hewett. Veteran actors include Corey Robertson, Melissa Scott, Ruth Owens, Chris Harkness and Mike Ross. New to the stage are Randy Sleiman and Jana Blair.
A cameo by original author Barry Bergen is also a nice touch.
The show takes place Friday, February 14 and Saturday, February 15 at 7:00 pm. Doors open at 6:30 pm. Tickets are $25 plus HST, and includes charcuterie and a drink.
Tickets can be purchased during Box Office hours Thursday-Saturday 11:00 am to 1:00 pm, at the door if not sold out, or online at banktheatre.com.
Cheesy Valentine is sponsored by the Municipality of Leamington and Chances Gaming Lounge in Leamington.
All are reminded that The Bank Theatre accepts warming goods (hats, mitts, scarves), and goods for our continuous food bank drive at any of their shows.
For more information about The Bank Theatre shows please visit www.banktheatre.com.
The cast of Cheesy Valentine, which opens Friday at The Bank Theatre, are, back row, from left, playwright Barry Bergen, music director Roger Hewett, Corey Robertson (Prince Emmental), Chris Harkness (Chévre), Jana Blair (Princess Rennet), Melissa Scott (Ricotta Stilton). Sitting from left are Randy Sleiman (Monterey Jack), Ruth Owens (Queen Gorgonzola), Mike Ross (Roquefort). In front is Director and narrator Leanne Hayes.
SUN photo
