St. Thomas Talent Takes Centre Stage

by Kara Doiron, BA IV

"Fathers and Sons" with Robbie O'Neill (top) and STU graduate Ryan Griffith

St. Thomas talent was at the forefront of Fredericton's first ever summer theatre festival.

The Black Box Theatre was home to the nearly sold-out NotaBle Acts Summer Theatre festival. NbActs was conceived by STU drama coordinator Ilkay Silk, her UNB counterpart, Len Falkenstein, and Colleen Wagner, a professor at York University. The three came together to strengthen their resources and give students a chance to work with professional actors and playwrights.

Silk's production of ‘Fathers and Sons,' written by Shediac native Don Hannah, kicked off the festival. It continued with ‘The Morning Bird,' by Governor General Award winner Wagner and capped off with ‘Happy City,' the latest work by Falkenstein.

St. Thomas students were central to the festival. ‘Fathers and Sons' co-starred STU graduate Ryan Griffith, who is known for writing and directing the Theatre St. Thomas productions ‘Left' and ‘Tug.' ‘Happy City' also showcased the talents of students. STU student, Sarah Jeffries, and UNB students, Hasef Addleman, Marissa Alison, and Devin Luke were among the performers.

Plans for next year are already underway. Silk says she plans to continue to work to give students the opportunity to participate in professional theatre.