George has always been passionate about theatre, but didn’t know it. As a young boy he was mesmerized by professional wrestling. “Rowdy” Roddy Piper was an early role model. Shortly thereafter, the explosive histrionics of Pete Townshend would supersede this Canadian icon. George’s attention later turned to American theatre. Jello Biafra became a seminal influence. The “Do It Yourself” ethic was firmly embraced by Perry, and he ventured into the vast repetoire of artists like Paul Westerberg and Steve Albini. As a young adult, he was re-introduced to the works of Townshend. His then girlfriend, Michelle, was hugely impressed by the theatrical production of The Who’s “Tommy”. He meandered through factories, schools, border towns and Michigan for a very long time afterwards. He eventually landed in Toronto. All these influences were brought together in one kettle when George discovered Mooney on Theatre. He understands and personifies that theatre is indeed for everyone. To further this end goal, he contributes.
The Hearing of Jeremy Hinzman is a verbatim play currently on stage as part of SummerWorks. It is the story of a US soldier’s attempt to claim refugee status in Canada as an objector to the war in Iraq.
A verbatim play uses “real life” words and transcripts. It is an excellent device for recounting historical events. Creators Josh Bloch and Oonagh Duncan do a remarkable job of condensing 7 years of transcripts, interviews and media coverage into 60 compelling minutes. It is fantastic courtroom drama. Continue reading The Hearing of Jeremy Hinzman (Foundry Theatre) 2012 SummerWorks Review→
The play was inspired by photographs taken of prisoners at a Khmer Rouge prison in Cambodia. At the prison where the photos were taken, 14,000 entered. 7 survived.
Sarah Grochala won Amnesty International’s Protect The Human Playwriting Award in 2007 for S-27. This mounting marks the play’s North American premier.
Greg is a great entertainer. He sings and he dances and he educates. He knows his bread.
He’s a rare breed too. Greg makes Twitter jokes while talking about ancient grains. He also sings and dances. Greg is a person you want as a real life friend.
The Contract is a site specific play being mounted at The Cameron House as part of Toronto Fringe 2012. It is experimental, provocative, sketchy, edgy and not necessarily for everyone. I consider it a must-see.
The Cameron is a legendary watering hole. It has nurtured artists since before most people reading this were born. Being somewhat acquainted with this proud history, I anticipated The Contract to be something special. I was not disappointed.
The Hearing of Jeremy Hinzman is a verbatim play currently on stage as part of SummerWorks. It is the story of a US soldier’s attempt to claim refugee status in Canada as an objector to the war in Iraq.
Beirut explores 1980’s disease hysteria, loyalty.
