Courtenay Little Theatre is breaking new ground with their production of Homechild by Joan MacLeod.
For the first time, the company is opening a moderated blog so that readers can share their experiences and opinions. Personal stories and photographs related to home children will be welcome.
Between 1860 and 1948, over 80,000 children were brought to Canada from Britain to work in factories and farms. They came from orphanages under several programs, the best-known being organized by Dr. Thomas Barnardo.
Initially placed in group homes, some children were adopted and some treated well, but far too many were abused and exploited as indentured child labourers.
In MacLeod's heart-warming play, Alistair is a retired farmer who arrived in Ontario as a British home child in 1922. In his old age, with his farm no longer viable, Alistair is cared for by his sister-in-law Flora and his son Ewan.
He secretly longs for Katie, the younger sister he was forced to leave behind in Scotland. When Alistair suffers a stroke, the deeply buried knowledge of Katie’s existence is released. His daughter Lorna determines to locate this long lost member of her family.
Director Ross Stephanson has assembled a cast of talented actors who bring humour and passion to this fine and important story.
Personal family stories and photographs related to home children can be sent to info@courtenaylittletheatre.com. To review the blog, go to www.courtenaylittletheatre.com and follow the link.
Homechild runs in the Sid Williams Theatre on Sept. 30, Oct. 1, 6, 7 and 8 at 7.30 p.m., with a matinee Oct. 2 at 2 p.m.
Tickets, including the new season ticket at $50 for three productions, are available at www.sidwilliamstheatre.com or by calling 250-338-2420.
— Courtenay Little Theatre