Friday 30 March 2012

CSL Dramatic Society to put on new show, youth classes, summer camp

CSL Dramatic Society to put on new show, youth classes, summer camp
Isaac Olson, The Free Press
March 27, 2012

Those lucky enough to get tickets to the Côte St. Luc Dramatic Society’s sold-out production of Grease know it was an exceptionally professional compilation of local, all-age actors singing and dancing across the stage with a undeniable passion for the performance arts. “The response for Grease was overwhelming and it kind of proves that people really want theatre in their community,” said director Anisa Cameron, noting the city’s help and continued support have allowed the group to flourish. “Actually, it was a bit of a surprise. I didn’t anticipate that much of response as it was our first production.”



Now, with one major production under its belt, plans are now in the making for another play and Councillor Mitchell Brownstein reported theatre classes for youth are planned for this coming spring. There will even, he said, be a two-week drama summer camp trial this coming July that, if popular, could expand with time.

The upcoming play will, in an effort to produce one drama and one musical a year, be Norm Foster’s Office Hours. The cast is still being chosen for the Canadian-penned comedy that is, the director admits, more mature in nature than Grease. The play will be performed on May 24 through the 26, again in city hall’s Harold Greenspon Auditorium. The classes, said Cameron, will be hosted by her and her colleagues within the performance art field, giving kids, ages 7 to 16, a chance to learn more about theatre productions from stage design and costumes to acting and directing. While these classes are slated to start in mid-April and run through June at the Aquatic and Community Centre, the summer camp would likely be for youth ages 10 to 16, giving kids a chance to learn even more about production. From there, she said the hope is that these kids will be interested in joining the CSL Dramatic Society.

“There really is a strong demand for this, not just among the actors who want a chance to express themselves, but also among the public that wants to come out and enjoy a professional show,” said Brownstein. “I’m very happy to be part of an organization that is helping young people excel in life. Maybe they won’t become Hollywood actors, but that’s not necessarily the goal. The objective here is that, while having a good time, they learn certain skills that help them become the best they can be at no matter what they do in life.” For more information about the CSL Dramatic Society, email: csldramaticsociety@ gmail.com To show support for the summer camp idea or inquire about any other activities, call the Parks and Recreation department at 514.485.6806.

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