Stone Fence Theatre closed out its most recent production, ‘Miss Pringle’s Mini-Skirt,’ in the most desirable way – audience members on their feet.
The play goers graciously gave the cast a standing ovation but also enthusiastically joined in the demonstrations of some of the most popular dance moves of the 1960s, during which the play was set.
Sarah Wright, who co-directed the play with Shirley Hill, also played Miss Pringle for the fall shows after lead Kate MacGregor returned to school.
The production’s final weekend consisted of two full sold-out shows at the Rankin Culture and Recreation Centre, including a Friday night gala dinner theatre that kicked off with musical performances from a number of special guests.
The play, a comedy musical from written by Johanna Zomers, casts a look back at the final days of rural schoolhouses as the Ottawa Valley discovered the Beatles, the Cold War, and Hockey Night in Canada.
As such, a number of children and youth were part of the production, something Wright enjoyed.
Wright said it was great to see their confidence build and their bonds with each other strengthen as the season went on.
And the improvement in their performances was evident, also, said Wright.
Something else Wright enjoyed about the play was the feedback from the community.
She heard from a number of people that they identified with the characters in the play, or the setting, or one of the many messages or issues that were broached.
Wright is grateful for the support of all those who made Miss Pringle’s Mini-Skirt such a success.
What’s next for Stone Fence Theatre?
Wright says they are considering a number of options right now, including reviving a previous production – High Times at the Heart Institute and possibly travelling around the Valley with Miss Pringle’s Mini-Skirt in the new year.
(Written by Sherry Haaima)