Lots of laughs in The Long Weekend

BY DAVID DUCHARME

Norm Foster's The Long Weekend has been described as, "so funny you'll be doubled over until the curtain falls."

Theatre Cambrian presents this biting comedy by one of Canada's most acclaimed playwrights Nov. 30, Dec. 1, 7 and 8 at the Jubilee Centre.

The production marks the directorial debut of Dale Pepin. Pepin has been involved in theatre for over 40 years. And since 1992, he has performed in and produced several projects with Theatre Cambrian.  

But things have been far different in preparation for this show.

"It's obviously been more intense because you have to be concerned with everybody, not just your own role," Pepin said.

Pepin has been preparing for his directorial debut since last spring. That has included conceptualizing the entire production, scene by scene. Pepin constructed a model stage, complete with props, to help his cause.

"It's pretty much like playing with a doll house," he joked.

The scaled replica has been a great way to deal with the intricacies of the play. 

"There have been some issues along the way. Especially with blocking…considering how tall Michael is and how tall Shirley isn't," he said.

Newcomers Michael Bellhorn and Shirley Harasym (Max and Wynn Trueman) join Theatre Cambrian vets Shawn Sullivan and Pamela Cramer (Roger and Abby Nash) in the cast.

A "relaxing" weekend at the cottage goes bad when the couples realize each has been having an affair with the other.
Hamilton Spectator columnist Gary Smith recently said of the show:

"The only problem with The Long Weekend, Norm Foster's hilarious look at love and marriage disposable-style, is its sheer volume of laughs. You're so busy doubled-up most of the time, you're in danger of missing the next great one-liner."

Pepin said he tried to take a collective approach to putting the show together.  

"There are those directors who approach things as 'my way or the highway.' And there are those who are pretty laissez-faire. I think I've been in the middle somewhere. If the actors have had suggestions they've been willing to try…I have been more than willing to give it a try."

With just a couple days until the curtain rises, Pepin is anxious, but confident.

 "I'm silly if I'm not nervous. But at the same time, I think the cast I have put into the show are going to do it justice."

Tickets for this dinner theatre production are $40 and are available at Records on Wheels. Reserve tickets with a credit card by phoning the box office at 524-7317.