One of the things that I love about my work is the tremendous amount of music, art and theatre that I am exposed to.  In many ways it makes me feel as though I am honouring my grandfather, who brought us kids up in the theatre from a very young age and who was a huge supporter of the theatre, specifically local theatre.  Last weekend had me in two of Vancouver’s older theatres, the ones where stories scream from the walls, the Rio Theatre at Commercial and Broadway and the Metro Theatre in Marpole.  And what a treat it was!  Ron Sexsmith, a Canadian Music Legend, in the intimate setting of the Rio, and 42nd Street at the Metro Theatre.  For the music fans in the crowd, you’ll understand what I mean when I say that I felt like I was taken back in time both nights, and in a good way.  Ron Sexsmith is a real class act, reminiscent of musicians from days gone by and 42nd Street is a heartwarming musical that is perfectly set in a theatre with a bit of history of it’s own.  Really takes you back.

The Cast of 42nd Street at the Metro Theatre (Photographer: Brian Campbell)

A friend recently told me that he was glad he was finally on the list of reviewers invited to the BIG Acts in town.  Some people might have felt jealous of him.  I didn’t.  I much prefer writing about the artists and musicians that are a little more indie and much more this countries heart and sole.  And I love writing about the smaller theatres, the community theatres, and up and coming theatre companies that are really the heart and sole of every community across Canada.  It is these theatres that I grew up in, feel at home in and feel a sense of community, connectivity and protectiveness for – UVic’s Phoenix Theatre, the Belfry, Theatre Aquarius, Oakville Centre, Kaleidescope, McPherson Playhouse … I love the stories in these spaces and the hopes and dreams of their performers.  Magic!

And magic is what was had last weekend at the Metro Theatre from the get go.  I took a friend that neighbours the theatre, allowing us to enjoy a home cooked meal, some wine and walk over to the show.  How great is that!  It was her first time in the theatre and I must say that we were both impressed with the scene that was set before us.  Loved how it spiraled us back in time and on to the streets of New York.  Being Opening Night, the dance and the music were not always perfect, but that almost added to the ambiance and the storyline (42nd Street is about the struggles of a theatre company as they attempt to pull off a hit Broadway Show).

Celia Reid (as Peggy Sawyer), Darryl Hol (as Pat Denning) and Susan Skemp (as Dorothy Parker) in 42nd Street at the Metro Theatre (Photographer: Brian Campbell)

Very much enjoyed the story, dance and music of the Metro Theatre’s production of 42nd Street.  My toe was a-tapping in my seat and it hit us how incredibly hard the performers were working in what seemed like an effortless fashion on stage.  And what a treat it was to see one of our favourite Vancouver funny gals, Cathy Wilmot playing Maggie Jones.  Love how Cathy transforms with her various roles and had no idea she could dance as she did.

To top the whole evening off, it was a delight to chat with one of the Metro Theatre’s Board Member, on the balcony, purveying the theatre, about his love for the theatre and his days as a director.  Very much reminded me of my grandfather, albeit a younger version.

Thanks Metro Theatre!

It’s not too late for tickets to 42nd Street.  The Musical is playing at the Metro Theatre now until April 30th, 2011 on Thursday – Saturday Nights at 8 pm, along with a 2 pm matinée on Sunday April 24th, 2011. Would make a great Date Night!

Kisses,

Emme xoxo