MainLine Gala for Student Drama: Love, Friendship and On-Stage Drinking

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I recently sat down to talk with some of the gifted minds behind this year’s MainLine Gala for Student Drama. Once again coordinated by Laurent Pitre and Kenny Streule, two up-and-coming talents in Montreal’s theatre circuit, this event showcases some of the most spirited student talent in the city.

The first of the plays, “The Day God Planted a Tree”, is a religious satire taking place at a bar. Written and directed by Julie Foster, a playwright student at Concordia, the play promises the audience many laughs and absurd moments between a priest and a rabbi. The cast consists entirely of performance majors at Concordia, and Julie said that she’ll be using her experience in stage management and clowning to make the audience have a great time.

I also spoke with Laurence Perron-Girard about her role at “Lève le Son”, the Gala’s French-language offering. Written by Gabrielle Cadot, this is the story of a young couple who invite friends over to their apartment for a rather self-centered evening. Laurence is enthusiastic about starring in this comedy shortly after completing her degree from the École Supérieure de Théâtre and her successful run at the Homerun Festival in Villeray.

The next play, “Thank You for the Time”, is an absurdist piece combining comedy and sadness in a bittersweet story about love. It stars Ally Caruso and Patrick Ryan, directed by Emelia Hellman, and Lizzie Chuprun, a student at the Dawson theatre program, will be in charge of stage managing this production.

Last but not least is “One Too Many”. Co-written and starring Evan Harvey and Calla Wright, the play deals with substance abuse and failure and will offer several perspectives on these touchy themes. Evan and Calla told me about their plans to be drinking on stage and interacting with the audience. They also emphasized the safeguards and structure put in place to make sure that this results in an enjoyable experience for everybody at the theatre.

The MainLine Gala for Student Drama offers quality entertainment for those of us looking for a memorable experience. It also offers students valuable opportunities in terms of putting their work out there and refining their art. So what are you waiting for? Grab your coat and make sure to catch some great theatre this week.

The MainLine Gala for Student Drama takes place at the Main Line Theatre (3997 St Laurent) on Febraury 11-13 at 8 p.m., and February 14 at 4 p.m. $15/13. Click HERE for tickets and info.