| NIAGARA THIS WEEK By: JAMES CULIC December 15, 2011 History buffs and theatre aficionados can both look forward to next month when the Fort Erie 1812 Bicentennial Committee host its first event: a stage production of The Lion and the Eagle performed by the Dominion Repertory Theatre (DRT). The play will be performed at the Old Fort’s new Welcome Centre and will mark the launch of three years of events planed by the committee to celebrate the 200 years of peace that have stood between Canada and the U.S. since the war ended. The committee commissioned DRT’s artistic director Brian Coatsworth to write the play, with help from award-winning Canadian playwright Sharon Pollock. On performance nights, the Welcome Centre will warp through space-time into Moody’s Tavern, circa 1811. Performers in the play will mingle with the audience sharing stories, food, and drink. |
Antonietta Petrella, chair of the 1812 bicentennial committee, said the play came together after they received a $5,000 donation from the Fort Erie branch of the TD Canada Trust. “Heritage and community involvement are a big part of TD Canada Trust,” said branch manager Gerry Brisson in a news release for the play. “We recognize the significance of the War of 1812 bicentennial and wanted to be a part of the excitement and the legacy.” The play will run every Saturday and Sunday in January for a total of eight performances. Tickets are now on sale at Benjamin Moore Paints on 401-B Garrison Road, in Fort Erie. Tickets are $15 in advance, $18 at the door, student tickets are $13 and $10 respectively. The group rate is $10 per ticket for 10 or more. Cider and old-time hors d’oeuvres will also be provided, compliments of The Niagara Parks Commission. Along with the play, bicentennial celebrations continue throughout the year including the Grand Parade on Jun. 23, which will consist of over 50 military marching bands, re-enactors and floats, the siege of Fort Erie on Aug. 11-12, and DRT’s original play, Sparks, performed campfire-side at the Old Fort in August. For more information about the Lion and the Eagle play and for a full list of calendar events happening in Fort Erie to celebrate the War of 1812, visit www.forterie1812.ca. View the article source |
Traveling back to 1811:Bicentennial celebrations launch in Jan. with play (Fort Erie)
