After spending two weeks studying devised theatre at Hamilton Conservatory for the Arts, an ensemble of young teen artists will be bringing Connections to the Hamilton Fringe Festival from July 18-27. As a site-specific show taking place at one Hamilton’s oldest arts buildings, Connections will explore the relationship between three generations of artists and the history of 126 James Street South. Since 1904, this historic hub has housed arts activities, served as a centre for troubled youth, been abandoned, and has now been returned to a hive of creative activity. This play reflects a cast of local young people’s ties to these stories.
The show’s creation process is supported by Erica May-Wood and Stephanie Hope Lawlor – two professional actors and theatre-makers who work extensively with youth to empower them to find a voice, create stories and perform.
“Whether or not a student pursues a career as an actor is not always relevant to the work we do in the studio. The exploration and process of studying theatre (or any art), is self-discovery and uncovering your own agency as an artist and ultimately, as a person out in the world”, says Stephanie Hope Lawlor, actor, Artistic Director of Rook’s Theatre, and co-facilitator/director of this piece.
Erica May-Wood has performed in multiple Toronto Fringe festivals, as well as devised and performed in theatre pieces with groups aged 6-60 in the community with her own indie company; however, she has never put these two elements of her artistic career together. “Devising as an ensemble is so rich,” May-Wood says. “I am overjoyed to be a part of the creative process with this amazing cast of young talent.”
The cast members of Connections look forward to bringing the history of 126 James Street South to life with scenes, music, and their own special voices as young artists. “There aren’t a lot of opportunities for teens to tell their own stories, write their own plays and have a presence in these festivals,” the young cast expresses.
Connections at the 2019 Hamilton Fringe Festival
Hamilton Conservatory for the Arts, 126 James Street South
Tickets: $12 Regular, $5 Kids (with $5 required Fringe button)
Available at the door one hour before showtime or in advance at http://hamiltonfringe.ca/tickets/
No latecomers will be admitted.
July 18: 7pm
July 19: 7pm
July 20: 7pm
July 24: 7pm
July 25: 7pm
July 26: 7pm
Julu 27: 3pm
