Murder mystery tour: A dark tale haunts the historic Campbell House Museum
Presented by Yabu No Naka Theatre Co-op/Red One Theatre Collective
Based on Yabu No Naka by Ryunosuke Akutagawa
Directed by Brenhan McKibben and Benjamin Blais
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Toronto’s Campbell House Museum was built by the Upper Canada Chief of Justice Sir William Campbell in 1822. The Georgian-style mansion is the oldest remaining house from the original site of the Town of York, and an apt setting for a spooky historical drama.
This Halloween, Yabu No Naka Theatre Co-op/Red One Theatre Collective has adopted the museum space to stage Into The Pines, a Canadian adaptation of classic Japanese Rashomon tales. The story of love, honour and betrayal begins when the body of a murdered captain is discovered in the woods.
The audience is led back in time through the rooms of the 19th century house to hear the testimonies of several witnesses: The Woodcutter (Tim Walker), The Jesuit (Anthony Ulc), The Sister Bereft (Kate Ziegler), The Constable (David Christo), The Shiner (Sebastian Pigott), The Young Widow (Lorna Wright) and The Medium (Tim Walker).
Guided by lanterns, The Singers (Hayley Toane, Kate Ziegler, Lauren Williams and Nicole Strawbridge) take us through each scene, until we reach a final room in the basement, where we meet the dead captain himself (David Tompa). Ultimately, the verdict is left for us to decide. And after the show we are invited to stay for ginger cookies and hot apple cider. How perfectly Canadian!
In The Pines is a wonderful experiment in theatre: a rich historical experience, full of intrigue and suspense. The top-notch cast and authentic backdrop really make this a special adventure for visitors. Highly recommended!
In The Pines runs until October 31, 2011 at the Campbell House Museum (160 Queen St. West). Visit redonetheatre.com for more information and to buy tickets.
