Skip to content

Sudburian writes play about 1974 disappearance of AY Jackson originals from Sudbury High

Tickets for April 5 production are now on sale at STC
031219_AY_Jackson
AY Jackson is seen here painting in his studio. (Supplied/Wikipedia)

Just in time for gift giving, tickets are now on sale at the Sudbury Theatre Centre for a play about one of Sudbury’s most fascinating mysteries, the theft of two AY Jackson originals in 1974.

The Group of Seven artist had visited Sheridan Technical School (a predecessor of Sudbury Secondary School) in the 1950s, accompanying Jack Smith’s art students to Onaping Falls to sketch. 

A few years later, they purchased his painting “Spring on the Onaping River,” which was begun on that day.

Students with Sudbury High School (also a Sudbury Sec predecessor school) purchased another Jackson painting, “A Windy Day — Lake Superior,” a few years later to commemorate a tragically murdered beloved teacher.

In 1974, both paintings disappeared in an overnight break-in.

The who-done-it mystery, written by Sudburian Judi Straughan, is reminiscent of her 2017 stage play, “The Case of the Missing Mayor,” which chronicled the disappearance of Mayor Biggar — yes, that was really his name — in 1895. 

Both plays present captivating Sudbury stories. “One thing about this play is that many of the individuals are still alive,” Straughan said. “You might be surprised who you’ll recognize on stage."

Tickets, which cost $30 each, are now on sale at the Sudbury Theatre Centre for this April 5 production in support of CKLU Radio. 

Phone STC at 705-674-8381, ext. 21 or visit sudburytheatre.ca under extra offerings. 


Comments

Verified reader

If you would like to apply to become a verified commenter, please fill out this form.