Since its inception in 1977, Pine Tree Players has offered community theatre while creating an outlet for creativity.
The theatre group’s latest offering, Mending Fences, by playwright Norm Foster, runs weekends beginning tonight (Nov. 11) and running through Nov. 21 at the Canmore Miners’ Union Hall.
“Mending Fences is another great celebration of creativity and relationships,” said director Jon Bjorgum. “We create a live environment where an audience experiences emotions and ideas in real time.
“There’s nothing like live theatre; the logic, emotion and conviction is right in front of you. The spoken word is wonderful and you have argument, romance and comedy from real people who are being someone else – and we allow ourselves to laugh, cry, pity or hope.
“They call it the ‘suspension of disbelief’ and I love it when I experience it, or when I can help create it for others.”
With Mending Fences, about 50 volunteers are involved and once the performances wrap up on Nov. 21, Bjorgum estimates about 175 hours will have been put into the production.
Mending Fences offers something different for Pine Tree in that the stage will be located in centre of the Canmore Miners’ Union Hall and live music by Doon Wilkin’s band, Something’s Fishy, will play a prominent role.
Originally founded by Bob Snape, Pat Doyle and friends, Pine Tree Players has provided an artistic outlet for decades.
Marsha Wright, for example, currently front of house manager, said she took over for Carol Hannesson when she stepped down.
“I keep doing it because I love to see people challenge themselves and grow. Over the years, I’ve seen many actors and volunteers do just that.
“Since my skill set is organizing, running front of house is my way of supporting the success of productions that give people the opportunity to take on new challenges.
“I also love the creativity involved in putting together all the parts of a play.”
Grant Hilts, who plays Harry at 45 in Mending Fences, is a first-timer with PTP.
“I became aware of Mending Fences in July, when my friend Jessie, who plays Lori, auditioned. She told me they need a Harry at 45 and that I should meet Jon and Doon to do a reading.
“Before I knew it, I was in a play for the first time since high school. So far, it’s been really fun, a great learning experience.”
