If you’re a theatre enthusiast or have just been meaning to give it a try, look no further!
The Canadian College of Performing Arts (CCPA) is thrilled to present Besse’s Will – Lovin’ Shakespeare by Christina Penhale and Jeffrey Renn, which opened this Thursday, October 26th and will play until Saturday, October 28th.
Described as an “unforgettable evening of song, sonnet, and Shakespeare”, you’re invited to witness a production dripping with classic tales of romance, tragedy, and betrayal.
Jam packed into one incredible play includes sections from more than 20 of Shakespeare’s plays, as well as Elizabeth I’s speeches to parliament, selections from the bible, and original writing by Jeffrey Renn!
This special production is a part of their 25th anniversary celebration, which will bring two special alumni co-presentations from Penhale and Renn, supported by the Canadian Heritage Arts Society.
Both alumni have an exceptional level of theatrical experience under their belt!
Penhale is an actor, producer, and director with over 20 productions to her name. She is also the current Artistic Director of StageCoach Theatre School—a performing arts school for youth.
Additionally, she’s the Co-Artistic Director of ExitStageLeft Productions, a semi-professional theatre company producing musicals and classics on Salt Spring Island.
Renn is faculty at the College and has over 20 years of experience as an actor, teacher, director, and storyteller!
He is well traveled too, and has been associated with theatre companies and institutions around the world.
This alumni co-presentation exemplifies the Canadian Heritage Arts Society’s mission to extend operations beyond the college, and create meaningful connections between the artists and the community.
“It’s a mark of an institution’s impact when exceptional alumni can return in leadership roles as directors, choreographers, and writers,” said Caleb Marshall, CCPA Managing Artistic Director.
“We honour the past with the largest alumni presence on creative teams in the College’s history. We develop the future by increasing new work creation and co-productions.”
Joining Penhale and Renn are musicians Jim Shultz playing the Guitar and Lute, and Joanne Whitehead playing the Renaissance Recorder.
They all invite you to attend and fall in love with Shakespeare all over again!
General admission tickets are $25 and can be purchased here.
Besse’s Will – Lovin’ Shakespeare
- Where: The Canadian College of Performing Arts, 1701 Elgin Road
- When: Thursday, October 26th to Saturday, October 28th—showtimes vary
