Culture clash, love and tragedy

Playreaders Theater
The Drawer Boy
Tue–Wed, July 1–2, 7pm
St.Paul’s Church
Cardo 6
Donation 20 pesos

Critics have lavished so much praise on the Canadian prize-winning play The Drawer Boy, by Michael Healey, that it is difficult to choose only a few examples of reviewers’ reactions: “Amusing and sensitive,” “Touches the mind and heart in equal measure. Funny and deeply affecting,” “A wonderful play—a must see,” “Humorous and heartwarming,” “Destined to become a classic.”

After winning just about every theater award in Canada, The Drawer Boy went on to win the Helen Hayes award in the US and was included in Time magazine’s list of the 10 best plays of 2001.

Based on actual 1972 events, the play relates what happens when an ambitious young actor, looking for material to write a play, plants himself upon a farm run by two middle-aged bachelors. While his complete ineptitude at performing the most mundane farm chores provides comic relief, his presence eventually sheds light on long-buried secrets and ultimately changes the farmers’ lives forever.

A wonderful trio of actors has been assembled by director Lola Smith. Michael Gottlieb and John Wharton will portray the farmers, while the ambitious young actor will be played by new reader Martin Grapengeter. Lights and sound will be handled by Dic Simandl. Performances begin at 7:30pm or earlier if the house is full. Doors open at 7pm.