Tag: Edmonton Theatre

Meet the Cast of A Fitting Confusion – Dustin Berube

What is your name?

Dustin Berube

What is your role in this play, or on this production team?

I play Monsieur Bassinet in the show. I would describe Bassinet as “a well-meaning friend who is an oblivious instigator of chaos.”

This show includes a number of preposterous lies. Tell us two unbelievable truths and a preposterous lie about yourself.  (Or two preposterous truths and a believable lie?)  

1. I have never seen any of The Godfather movies.

2. I used to play the tuba in a travelling, family band.

3. I have been in a Hollywood movie.

Which one was a lie? 

I have never played the tuba. However, my family have been known to bring out country/folk music instruments after a family meal. Including autoharps, banjoes, harmonicas and even spoons.

Why should audiences come see this show?

It is a high energy, laugh out loud spectacle! If you are a fan of over-the-top characters and quick-witted dialogue, then you will be a fan of the show.

Joan Heys Hawkins 20th Set Design for Walterdale Theatre

Joan Heys Hawkins is the Set Designer and Master Painter for The Realistic Joneses

What was your first show designing for Walterdale? When was it? What do you remember about the experience?

Cyrano de Bergerac (2004) This was our first — and very positive — experience with the Walterdale community, with Alex directing and me designing the set.  I especially liked the ramp — it was challenging to design an abstract set that could be used to represent five distinct locations for the play.

Of your 20 designs, can you pick out 2 or 3 highlights for you? What made them highlights?

The Skin of Our Teeth (2006)

We borrowed a large turntable from the U of A, and we had a builder who was able to weld!  I used a sundial metaphor for the painting of the turntable and the design of the metal sculpture pieces. 

The Light in the Piazza (2019)

My design concept was a piazza with local musicians playing while tourists admired the famous landmarks of Florence.  I loved the bold painting of the large panels surrounding the piazza.  Altogether, there were 19 of us who painted on that set — from total newbies to very experienced painters.

Jennie’s Story (2014)

Some plays demand total realism.  We were able to create a 1939 Southern Alberta farmhouse, with a working kitchen sink (with water coming out of a pump) and a plywood recreation of an old wood-burning stove.

Proof (2013)

I challenged the builders for the roof of the Chicago bungalow and back porch, and was very pleased with the realism of the set and how it changed the space on deck.

Red (2016)

The challenge was protecting the drapery from the actual painting of a very large canvas every night.  I painted bricks and mortar for many hours, and had fun putting together all the elements of an artist’s studio, with the help of Geri’s old gas stove.

A Doll’s House (2017)

Although it was a realistic box set, Janet and I painted the walls, woodwork, and floor in abstract swirls to represent the cold, windy, snowy Norwegian winter.  I felt this underscored the changes that transpire in the script.

There are a number of others that I are favourites for various reasons (The Lion in Winter (2008), The Mail Order Bride (2010), Rabbit Hole (2011), Next to Normal (2018) — but I’ve already exceeded the 2-3 favourites! 

  • The Lion in Winter
  • The Mail Order Bride
  • Rabbit Hole
  • Next to Normal

Were there any designs that were particularly challenging? How did you overcome the challenges? 

A Man of No Importance (2015) This show was challenging on two counts:  it was my first set design for a musical, and there was a miscommunication that resulted in the director arriving in town to start rehearsals without a production team in place.  The wonderful Walterdale community stepped up, and we all worked fast and furiously to support this show.  Yes, musicians and their instruments take up lots of space, but it’s worth the effort to accommodate them.  I loved the way the director worked with the set, and I was proud of the results. 

What about the current show? How has this one been like to work on?

The Realistic Joneses (2022) This has been such a calm and rewarding experience, largely due to the director being so prepared and open in working with cast and production team.  I’m especially fond of my velvet painting experiment for this show.

What would you say to anyone thinking about set-designing at Walterdale? Any words of advice? 

  • Read the script.  And re-read the script.  Everything you need to know is in the text.  Read it again.  And again. 
  • Work with the director.  Share your ideas and listen to the director’s ideas.  Work together to make sure you’re both on the same page of that world of the play.
  • Remember the actors.  They need space to move freely — and safely — both on the set and backstage.  The more time they have to work on set, the better your design will look.
  • Use your design to support the script and director and actors in telling the story to the audience.  Your set design is not like a painting in a gallery.  It’s a three-dimensional environment that comes alive during performance.
  • Communicate with production team members so all the design elements work together.
  • Use resources, both financial and human, wisely.  Do an inventory of materials available at Walterdale before making purchases.
  • Embrace the challenges and beauties of the Walterdale space.  Much is possible — although a higher grid often crosses my mind!
  • And remember that the audience doesn’t need realism.  They come with experience and imaginations.  They will embrace any concept as long as it’s consistent.
  • Chess
  • The Great Gadsby
  • Bottled Up
  • Summer and Smoke
  • Six Degrees of Separation
  • Quenevere
  • Portrait of a Family Dinner
  • Love of the Nightingale

Meet the Cast of The Realistic Joneses – Zack Siezmagraff

Zack Siezmagraff is playing Bob Jones!

Hi Zack, tell us about your character in The Realistic Joneses:

Bob is in his late 30s, coping with a rare neurological disorder and the effect it is having on his life, his marriage, and his relationship with his neighbours. 

What is your background in theatre?

This is my 4th show at the Walterdale. Previous Walterdale credits: A Day in Hollywood/A Night in the Ukraine, Anything Goes!, and Boeing-Boeing. I have also appeared with East of Sixty, Foote in the Door, Blackout Sketch Comedy, ELOPE, Two One Way Tickets to Broadway, and the Citadel Theatre. 

What brought you out for The Realistic Joneses?

I normally like to do comedy or farce; I was drawn to this show by the writing of Will Eno, who is both absurd and incredibly realistic at the same time. Playing Bob has been a rewarding and challenging experience. 

What are you enjoying the most about working on this show so far?

This play has so many textual levels. The more we dive into it together, the more I appreciate how great this show is.

Why do you think people should come see The Realistic Joneses at the Walterdale?

This is a play unlike any I’ve seen in a long time; the writing is relatable and done in a very innovative and refreshing way. Audiences will be both challenged and entertained.

Who’s your favourite Celebrity Jones and why? 

Carolyn Jones! She was the TV Morticia Addams and also camped it up as Marsha, Queen of Diamonds on the 60s Batman.

Meet the Cast of The Realistic Joneses – Colleen Allen

Colleen Allen is playing Jennifer Jones!

Hi Colleen, tell us about your character in The Realistic Joneses:

Jennifer is a caregiver, a bookkeeper and a dreamer. Wearing a facade of smiles and sarcasm, she wonders what else might have become of her life and how she ended up in this small mountain town.

What is your background in theatre?

It’s been three decades since I’ve been on stage in Edmonton – or anywhere for that matter! In my youth, I was in theatre school and productions at the Citadel, ITV (now Global) commercials, and played Mary Lennox in the Stage Polaris production of The Secret Garden. Since that time, I studied to become a Registered Nurse with a Masters in Public Health. I’ve worked in research and clinical practice with refugees, harm reduction programs and low-risk obstetrics in Canada and Australia, and started a family. 

What brought you out for The Realistic Joneses?

It was 1:34 AM on a random night when I found myself searching for auditions. I thought to myself, “Well, I’ll start auditioning, take some acting classes and see what happens.” Next thing I know, I’ve signed up for The Realistic Joneses audition thinking it will be fun to stretch those tired ol’ acting chops again. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d be working with this amazing team on an actual stage bringing this strange, quirky, beautiful script to life. 

What are you enjoying the most about working on this show so far?

Learning from the much more experienced cast and discovering the many layers of the script with the whole team.

Why do you think people should come see The Realistic Joneses at the Walterdale?

The Realistic Joneses is funny, weird, comforting, tragic and cryptic in all the best ways possible. It will take you out of the real world and plunk you down into a realistic world that has you laughing, questioning, and empathizing with four characters doing the best they can to get through the day, fix lamps, and say goodbye to dead squirrels.

Who’s your favourite Celebrity Jones and why? 

Jessica Jones in the Marvel Universe. She kicks ass with no apologies and a whiskey in her hand. And she can fly.

Meet the Cast of The Realistic Joneses – Brooke Hodgson

Brooke Hodgson is playing Pony Jones!

Hi Brooke, tell us about your character in The Realistic Joneses:

Pony is a young married woman who just moved to a small town with her husband to start a new life together. With a bubbly energy about her, she also struggles to find balance and handle the very real and difficult relationships and events within her life. Pony has a strong dependence on her husband John, and yet has difficulty communicating her needs, and let alone understand his. However, she contains an air of desperate cheeriness about her as a way to face her day to day life.

What is your background in theatre?

I have been involved in theatre since I was a young girl. From my first role as Dorothy Gale in The Wizard of Oz, I knew that performing is where my passion lies. I have been in many plays and musicals since then, stemming from Mel Brooks to Victor Hugo to Shakespeare. I have a Bachelor of Arts in Drama from the University of Alberta, and since then have been teaching theatre at Lillian Osborne High School in Edmonton. Coming back from a five year hiatus from acting, as I have been primarily directing for the past five years, I am overjoyed to be back continuing my passion. This is my first Walterdale production, and I am absolutely delighted to create art alongside such a great team!

What brought you out for The Realistic Joneses?

I read a Will Eno play rather recently called Middletown, and I absolutely fell in love with his writing. The way that his characters interact with each other is so natural and real, and there is complex subtext that lies behind every single line. As an actor, I get really excited to dive deeper into what’s hidden, what’s indirectly referred to, or what’s not said at all. This play is not just a comedy; it’s about finding the comedy within the tragedy – and I think that’s beautiful. There are so many golden moments and lessons to take from the dialogue that really changed my own perspective on things. While there are moments of laughter and pure hilarity, there are also times that reflect the existential nature of life. This is definitely the type of play that will have you cracking up, while also leaving you with something to think about or be inspired by. 

What are you enjoying the most about working on this show so far?

We have such a talented cast and dedicated crew. There are so many things that happen behind the scenes that are just absolutely incredible. Every time I come into rehearsal, there is always something new in the space to admire. We have a bunch of dedicated people both on and off the stage. Also, working with our director John has been a great experience. His passion and deep knowledge of the play and its characters has been such a great help making each scene come to life. My fellow cast members have also been incredible to work with, and I leave every rehearsal with a smile.

Why do you think people should come see The Realistic Joneses at the Walterdale?

There is something for everyone in this show. There is light-hearted humour, and a guaranteed good laugh. However, there is also this great sense of community in sharing the intimacy of the human experience that is so thrilling to experience in a live show. You’re guaranteed to see a bit of yourself in the play at some point, and it might even teach you a little bit about the way we are as people. I think living in 2022, and the state of the world being quite dismal at times, the play provides that bit of escapism but also that bit of community and relatability in how each character deals with their world, and the conflicts that weigh on them. Though the characters have drastic problems with communication, Will Eno masterfully crafts each and every line, and the poetic nature of the words alone is enough of a reason to come check it out!

Who’s your favourite Celebrity Jones and why? Given that I just directed Chicago with my students, I am going to have to go with Catherine Zeta-Jones. Beyond her work as Velma in Chicago, her versatility as an actress is something I look up to.

Meet the Production Team of The Realistic Joneses – Justine Makowecki

Justine Makowecki is the Stage Manager!

Hi Justine, tell us about your role on The Realistic Joneses:

As a stage manager, I call the show and make sure information is communicated to the necessary people. I am responsible for taking notes at rehearsals to keep track of what we have done. I also keep track of time to make sure everything goes smoothly. 

What is your background in theatre?

I graduated last year from the Technical Theatre diploma at Vancouver Island University (VIU) in Nanaimo, BC. Until now, I have only stage managed shows as a part of school. This is my first time stage managing in Edmonton and first time at the Walterdale Theatre. While at VIU, I also co-directed Rocky Horror Picture Show in 2019 with a classmate. 

What brought you out for The Realistic Joneses?

The director’s brother reached out to my partner, Yuri, and asked if either Yuri or I have stage management experience. Yuri mentioned I had, then the next thing I knew, I was on the team as the stage manager! I wanted to work on the show because I wanted to get involved in the theatre community within Edmonton.

What are you enjoying the most about working on this show so far?

Meeting new people. making connections, and building my skills as a stage manager.

Why do you think people should come see The Realistic Joneses at Walterdale?

Since the pandemic has halted live theatre and it’s now back, I think this is the perfect time for people to support community theatre.

Who’s your favourite Celebrity Jones and why? 

Hard to say, but I’ll go with Richard T. Jones. I’ve watched him in Criminal Minds and Grey’s Anatomy.

Meet the Production Team of The Realistic Joneses – Megan Reti

Megan Reti is the Costume Designer!

Hi Megan, tell us about your role on The Realistic Joneses:

I basically determine how the characters look (with direction from the director, of course). I think about who each character is and how that might translate into how they dress and style themselves. I do everything from putting together a costume mood board for each character to purchasing pieces to fittings to alterations to planning who wears what when, not to mention also considering hair and make-up!

What is your background in theatre?

This is my third show with Walterdale as costume designer.

What brought you out for The Realistic Joneses?

I’m a full-time university student in the fall and winter, so a summer show fits perfectly in my summer break.

What are you enjoying the most about working on this show so far?

The characters are complex  and constructing a look for each character based on the script and what each actor brings to the role has been interesting.

Why do you think people should come see The Realistic Joneses at Walterdale?

Because it’s funny and thought-provoking at the same time. Plus the costumes are pretty cool 😉

Who’s your favourite Celebrity Jones and why? 

Tommy Lee Jones – He reminds me of hanging out with my dad and older brothers as a kid watching Lonesome Dove. Plus MIB is a classic!

Meet the Production Team of The Realistic Joneses – John Anderson

John Anderson is the Director!

Hi John, tell us about your role on The Realistic Joneses:

The Director does a lot of work on a show that they don’t get any credit for. However, the Director also gets a lot of credit for the hard work done by others. In this show, the credit is all due to the strong team around me, so I would suggest you read all the other bios, if you want to read about the real talent and hard work behind this show. This is my first time Directing and my Mentor, Production team, cast, and Artistic Director have all made it a wonderful and satisfying experience through their knowledge, talents, and collaborative spirits.

What is your background in theatre?

Most of my theatre experience comes from Walterdale. All the mentors and peers that have taught me the tricks of the trade are either past or current members of this important theatre. My first show at Walterdale was about eight years ago, and I have been behind the scenes in many Walterdale productions between then and now.

What brought you out for The Realistic Joneses?

As the one that pitched the show for the season, I’m just so pleased that this script was able to convince all the talented people on this team to join the production. One of the hardest parts of this process was sending out the rejection letters after Auditions, because so many talented actors came out to be in this show. Some day, I hope to work with all of the ones that didn’t make it, this time.

What are you enjoying the most about working on this show so far?

Everyone on this team is open to taking chances, so the collaboration process has been a blast. We’ve been able to make unique discoveries, because of how willing the cast and crew have been to suggestion and adaptation. An inspiring group.

Why do you think people should come see The Realistic Joneses at the Walterdale?

The talent on and offstage is tremendous. The script is I think one of the best modern plays from the last couple decades, because of how clear the psychology of the characters is, how realistic the dialogue is, and how funny the characters can be. Furthermore, the story explores modern and relatable issues in relationship dynamics, such as how we can hide behind humour to avoid honest and difficult conversations.

Who’s your favourite Celebrity Jones and why? 

Spike Jonze, if that counts (that pesky Z). One of the best current film directors. If he’s disqualified, then probably Tommy Lee Jones. However, Quincy Jones is a major film composer, and Daisy Edgar-Jones was fantastic in Normal People. Tough question!

Meet the Production Team of The 39 Steps – Matthew Baker

Matthew Baker is our Sound Op!

Hi Matthew! Tell us about your role on The 39 Steps?

I have the pleasure to be working as the Sound Operator for this amazing production! I assist in telling the story through sound.

What is your background in theatre?

I have been acting for a number of years throughout school as well as some community theatre companies. I have also been part of production teams on some shows as well working Sound, Runner, and Assistance to Lights. This is my first Walterdale show and I am very excited to work with these amazingly talented people.

What brought you out for The 39 Steps?

I have seen some great shows come out of Walterdale and I wanted to be a part of one, so when the notice came out – I eagerly jumped at it.

What are you enjoying the most about working on this show so far?

I absolutely love working with the amazing cast and crew and watching this show come to life. Can’t wait for the world to see it!

Why do you think people should come see The 39 Steps at Walterdale?

I have never seen a Walterdale show I didn’t want to see twice. On top of that, seeing this amazing show first-hand and watching it come together, how this fantastic cast and crew have brought this story to life, I can say with complete certainty, it’s something no one will want to miss!

The 39 Steps is based on the Hitchcock film (which is based on the John Buchan novel)… do you have a favourite Hitchcock film? OR a favourite 1930s-40s film?

Strangers on a Train

Meet the Production Team of The 39 Steps – Laura Eschak

Hi Laura! Tell us about your role on The 39 Steps?

I assist the Stage Manager and performers in the story telling by helping assure the set, props, costumes and the characters are where they are needed at the right time. I support both performers and the Stage Manager in whatever way is needed (including finding an inner animal when needed). Dealing with missing beards, broken lights, waving like the wind, finding dark coloured spike marks in black scene changes is all part of the fun.

What is your background in theatre?

I have been involved in 40 productions in Edmonton, Red Deer and Sherwood Park. From performing onstage, crewing behind the blacks, painting, sewing, playing in the pit and FOH. Production favourite – The 39 Steps (Honestly!); Performing favourites include West Side Story, A Child’s Christmas in Wales, Jesus Christ Superstar, Fiddler on the Roof and Spamalot. I have also been blessed that my three daughters have also performed with me in several productions.

What brought you out for The 39 Steps?

In expanding my involvement with Walterdale I was looking for an opportunity to join the technical/stage crews. The 39 Steps is an enormous opportunity to learn A LOT from talented people and share in a fantastic story of mayhem, mystery and comedy.

What are you enjoying the most about working on this show so far?

The talented people who are sharing their experiences, knowledge and joy of performing. Each rehearsal has brought new things to learn and share with the audience.

Why do you think people should come see The 39 Steps at Walterdale?

The 39 Steps is an opportunity to step away from today’s challenges and enjoy a side splitting barrel of laughs that will keep you guessing ‘What are the 39 Steps?” and how will Hannay save the British Island.