Local youth featured in Authentic Voices Productions play at Bruce County Museum

If you want to see local youth perform in the Authentic Voices Productions (AVP) play, "Letters Home," you have two more opportunities, at the Bruce County Museum and Cultural Centre in Southampton, Aug. 9 and 23.

History and drama have taken centre stage at the museum this summer, featuring in live-action exhibit scenes and in the AVP original production of “Letters Home,” a play that celebrates the contributions of area citizens throughout the last 150 years.

Working in partnership with Ontario 150, GBSusNet and the museum, the theatre company is under the direction of Veronica Davidson, former drama teacher at Sacred Heart High School in Walkerton.

Each Monday, Wednesday and Friday, the AVP ensemble performs scenes in the exhibits at the museum. You can follow in the footsteps of David Kennedy, an early pioneer, or step back in time to the War of 1812 with the tales, songs and dances of the spirited crew of the HMS General Hunter, complete with cannon firings!

Ever wondered what life was like in the trenches of the First World War, or what students experienced in a one-room schoolhouse? Wonder no longer because, according to Courtney Lair, ensemble supervisor, “Our actors have made it their business to provide museum patrons with an immersive experience that blends history with fun and interactive experiences for both the young and young-at-heart.”

It all comes together as the ensemble of AVP presents its original play, “Letters Home,” an Ontario 150 production that explores the rich history of Bruce County. The production premiered to great reviews at opening performances in July, and you can still get tickets to see it Aug. 9 and 23, as part of the museum’s “Special Guest Wednesday” series.

Using drama, comedy and song, the play takes audience members on a journey through time by exploring the societal issues embedded within the letters written home by featured historical figures. Join Dr. Margaret MacKellar or Agnes Macphail as they challenge social norms to further human and women’s rights. Laugh along with artists David Milne, Isabella Valancy Crawford and William Wilfred Campbell, as they explore the meaning of art in a lighthearted witty exchange.

And experience the heart-wrenching saga of Captain Eric Robertson, a young First World War pilot of the Walkerton area, whose gripping story provides a rare glimpse into the impact that war has on the lives of young soldiers and the families they leave behind.

“Letters Home,” carefully researched and written by the AVP steering committee, is performed by six talented area youth of Kincardine, Tiverton, Port Elgin and Walkerton.

Brontae Hunter of Kincardine, who will be attending the National Theatre School in Montreal in the fall, said it has been both intriguing and great fun to explore the history of her home through theatre. "Every day, there are moments of discovery about the dynamic people who helped to build Bruce County. I would encourage everyone to join us for a show that is playful, evocative and an informed piece of theatre.”

Likewise, Olivia De Jong, a student at Kincardine District Secondary School, said the process of mounting “Letters Home” has been “sincerely creative, fun and memorable.”

Other ensemble members include Fiona Miller of Port Elgin, Robyn Mercanti of Kincardine and Tiverton’s Dyllan Mooser, who sums up the theatrical experience by saying, “I am very proud to be part of the 'Letters Home' project because keeping local history alive for future generations is an excellent way to celebrate Canada’s 150th birthday as well as Bruce County’s 150th. And it provides a unique and informative experience for those interested in history as well as local entertainment.”

“Letters Home” can be seen two more times at the museum: Aug. 9 and 23, at 2 p.m. General admission applies; free admission for museum members. Seating is limited; please call 519-797-2080, to reserve your ticket.