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iPhoto caption: Scott Wentworth and Walter Borden in 'An Orchid and Other Such Lilies and Lies.' Photo by Seamus Easton.
Playing at the Red Sandcastle Theatre, Dandelion Theatre's An Orchid and Other Such Lilies and Lies is an existential rumination on life, death, and friendship — and for me, a gentle reminder to tell people you love them while you still can.
iPhoto caption: Danté Prince and Savion Roach in 'The Christmas Market.' Photo by Kenya Parsa.
Among softly falling snowflakes, dense rum cake, a tree that twirls of its own accord, and a lively soca rendition of classic carol “My Favourite Things,” The Christmas Market unfolds, gradually steering away from familiar festive comforts toward a sharper story of labour and exploitation.
iPhoto caption: Nicholas Eddie (R) with Michael Gordon Spence and Heather Marie Annis in 'Dissonant Species.' Photo by Michael Cooper.
For the first half of the show, you can’t help but focus on director Jacquie P.A. Thomas' thoughtful scenic choices.
iPhoto caption: Iestyn Davies as Orfeo (right, facing away) in the Canadian Opera Company's production of Orfeo ed Euridice, 2025. Photo by Michael Cooper.
REVIEW: The COC’s Orfeo ed Euridice plunges starkly into its mythical dilemma
Though I won’t spoil it here, I will note that the twist subverts narrative and thematic expectations and reveals the production’s true emphasis: its desire to underscore the fact that, despite mortal weakness, love triumphs all.