Dunfield Theatre Cambridge Stages ANNE OF GREEN GABLES, Starring Danielle Wade, thru Nov 8

The Dunfield Theatre Cambridge continues its 2015 Season with one of Canada's most popular and longest running musicals. ANNE OF GREEN GABLES, the irresistible tale about life, love, and yes, ice cream, is on stage now through November 8th.

Based on the world-famous novel by Lucy Maud Montgomery, ANNE OF GREEN GABLES tells the story of mischievous red-haired orphan Anne Shirley, who arrives at Green Gables in Avonlea P.E.I. full of hope for a new life. Upon arrival, she is dismayed to discover that her new guardians, elderly siblings Matthew and Marilla Cuthbert, had specifically asked for a boy. Despite her fiery temper, love of melodrama, and proclivity for mischief, Anne manages to charm her way into their hearts, as well as the hearts of the villagers of Avonlea. In doing so, she finds the happiness and sense of belonging that she has searched for her entire life.

This high-spirited, lighthearted musical features an unforgettable score filled with moving and memorable melodies such as "Kindred Spirits," "Gee, I'm Glad I'm No One Else But Me," and "Ice Cream." It captures a period of Canadian history that was filled with youthful exuberance, innocence, and a sense of wonder. As a result, ANNE OF GREEN GABLES is certain to warm your heart and put a smile on your face. It's a wholesome musical that the entire family can enjoy.

"ANNE OF GREEN GABLES is an enduring favourite of theatregoers, and brings back such fond memories for me personally," says Alex Mustakas, Artistic Director of Drayton Entertainment. "I am delighted to present this Canadian classic to our audiences in Cambridge."

The production is close to Mustakas' heart, as he performed the role of Mr. Phillips in Charlottetown back in the 1980s under the direction of legendary theatre director Alan Lund. A great friendship was formed between the two, with Lund later assisting Mustakas with the launch of the Drayton Festival Theatre by directing the inaugural 1991 production, Vaudeville!.

Max Reimer leads the Creative Team to direct the production. Reimer brings extensive experience to the job, having directed 11 different productions of ANNE OF GREEN GABLES around the world, including command performances for Dukes Andrew and Edward and two touring productions to Japan.

Danielle Wade, winner of CBC's hit reality TV series Over The Rainbow, is perfectly winsome and wild in the title role of this beloved musical. As the idealistic and precocious Anne Shirley, Wade carries the entire production with ease -- seamlessly blending humour and spunk, longing and vulnerability, along with exceptional vocals into her nuanced performance. In so doing, she captures the youthful heart and imaginative spirit of this well-loved character.

Veteran actor Ted Simonett has just the right combination of shy tenderness and lovable humour in his role as elderly Matthew Cuthbert, who forms a special bond with Anne. Famed Canadian actress Susan Gilmour casts a formidable presence on stage masterfully portraying Matthew's strict sister Marilla, who objects to Anne at first, but grows to love her immensely.

Colin Sheen is the perfect nuisance and love interest as the teasing Gilbert Blythe. His enticing portrayal is a delight to watch as Gilbert's admiration and antics towards Anne intensify, spurring Anne's red-blooded temper to sometimes get the best of her.

Jade Repeta is thoroughly delightful as Anne's best friend and kindred spirit, the guileless young Diana Barry, and Kaleigh Gorka is perfectly petulant as Anne's nemesis Josie Pye, who fights for Gilbert's affections.

Susan JohnstonCollins is exceedingly funny as the nosy neighbor, Mrs. Lynde. David Cotton offers great support as stern school teacher Mr. Phillips, while Anwyn Musico is appropriately warm and endearing as Anne's favourite teacher and mentor, Miss Stacy. J. Sean Elliott and Kevin Etherington have a few comic moments as Cecil, the farmer and Earl, the mailman.

The talented cast also includes Rachel Clark as Gertie Pie, June Crowley as Lucilla/Mrs. MacPherson, JJ Gerber as Willy Boulter, Graeme Goodhall as Moody MacPherson, Larry Herbert as the minister, Anna Hurshman as Prissy Andrews, Patty Jamieson as Mrs. Barry/Mrs. Blewett, Amanda Leigh is Mrs. Spencer/Mrs. Sloane, Sandra Mantini as Mrs. Pye, Lily McEvenue as Ruby Gillis, Luke Opdahl as Charlie Sloane, Conor Scully as Tommy Sloane and Christine Watson as Tillie Boulter.

Music Director Nico Rhodes brilliantly leads this terrific ensemble through a musical score filled with unforgettable melodies. Lisa Stevens, who earlier this season choreographed Dunfield Theatre Cambridge's production of Monty Python's Spamalot, helps bring the show to life with exuberant choreography befitting the era. Those who know the show well will love the picnic scene which incorporates elements of Alan Lund's original choreography.

Jean-Claude Olivier has designed a noteworthy set that places the audience in Avonlea. Rachel Berchtold provides period costumes to perfectly reflect the Maritime tradition, while Kevin Fraser's lighting design complements the bright and breezy mood of the production.

The Dunfield Theatre Cambridge has also engaged 30 of the best and brightest local young people to perform in this production. Kaitlyn Banton, Kate Barry, Olivia Bluhm, Logan Brideau, Ty Campbell, Jessica Cholette, Chase Corbett, Madelynn Doering, Katie Drew, Natalie Harrison, Lauren Hastings, Clare Healy, Charlie Hensel, Shelby Hickey, Linden Imeson Jorna, Connor Johannes, Madison Kuehl, Claire MacKinnon, Abigail McDonald, Cole O'Donnell, Ryan O'Donnell, Noranda Marie Rose, Logan Savoie-Hvorup, Liza Semiwolos, Melissa Sindle, Meg Starra, Katie Stehlik, Samantha Tavares, Loralei Trafford, and Rylie Welds make up the Children's Chorus. The young performers will be split into three teams performing on a rotating basis.

Now an integral part of Canadian culture, the novel ANNE OF GREEN GABLES has been translated into 17 languages and adapted for television and theatre. The musical adaptation has entertained over 3.3 million people worldwide including a run at Expo '70 in Osaka, Japan and Broadway in 1971.

"ANNE OF GREEN GABLES is sure to be one of the biggest hits of the season," says Mustakas. "I advise theatregoers to get tickets as soon as possible to avoid disappointment."

Don't miss your chance to see ANNE OF GREEN GABLES on stage now through November 8th. Tickets are $42 for adults and $25 for Youth under 20 years of age. HST is applicable to all ticket prices. Tickets may be purchased online at www.dunfieldtheatrecambridge.com, in person at the Box Office, or by calling (519) 621-8000 or toll free 1-855-372-9866.

Pictured: Danielle Wade and Company in ANNE OF GREEN GABLES. Photo by Hilary Gauld Camilleri.

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