It’s a little late to be doing the “that’s a wrap!” blog but as a producer, the work for Rope just ended for me the other day. Now that I’ve finally got the time to take a break and reflect I thought I’d give a little summary of how the show went.
We were very lucky to sell out 5 of our 7 performances, and all were loved by our audiences. We got a lot of positive feedback; here are some of the review highlights:
“The story’s best known in its film adaptation by Alfred Hitchcock, but there’s some point in seeing the theatrical original, especially in Bygone Theatre’s site-specific staging at North York’s Gibson House Museum…Under director and costume designer Emily Dix, the visual details, including millinery by David Dunkley, are generally understated but impressive. She’s also given the action a local flavour with mentions of Upper Canada College, Yonge Street and Rosedale. Most importantly, she generally keeps the tension taut: will someone discover what’s in the trunk?…Stetson brings an increasingly frenetic fervour to the murderer that nicely balances Child’s cold, analytical surmises…Matthew McGrath has charm as another party guest, while Chelsey MacLean adds a touch of flapper raciness to the production.” – Jon Kaplan, NOW Magazine
“The supporting cast are excellent: Matthew McGrath’s dandyish Kenneth is the perfect partner for Chelsey MacLean’s note-perfect Lelia, a bubbling and coquetteish flapper gal with lips for days and eyeliner to match. Ian McGarrett, as the victim’s father, has an interesting presence which detaches him from the rest of the company — a not-unpleasant effect. David Dunkley’s millinery is also a highlight: there are only two ladies’ hats, but where this company dug up such marvellous and contrasting costumes is beyond me…the character work is outstanding, particularly MacLean’s high-spirited modern bohemian, Stetson’s sinister schoolboy, and a few blink-and-you’ll-miss-‘em flourishes from Elizabeth R. Morriss’ Miss Kentley.”
– Mike Anderson, Mooney on Theatre
I’m very happy with how the show went and couldn’t be prouder of the cast & crew. I had the chance to work with some amazing people and can’t wait for our next production – stay tuned for details on that.
If you want to see more Rope footage check out our facebook page for photos by Danielle Son, or see our mini montage of footage here:
-E.
Bygone Theatre 