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.
I’m a big fan of black box theatre. It is basically a style that encompasses a largely bare performance area and temporary seating. It puts an emphasis on writing and performing. It also helps to open up theatre to more people. It embraces the independent and DIY spirit.
Young American activist’s life, ancient disputes, revisited at historic Toronto theatre
My Name is Rachel Corrie is a controversial play that recently played at Toronto’s Hart House Theatre. It is a one-woman show with Amelia Sargisson starring as Rachel Corrie.
Theatre Passe Muraille hosts fun, modern and inclusive Toronto town hall meeting
This Must Be the Place: The CN Tower Story is an inclusive, engaging “event”. It is a hyper-intense multimedia event and very modern. The audience is even invited to Tweet and text early in the show, to “be real people” early on.
To create the show, the young team of creators interviewed scores of Torontonians. From former mayors to the homeless, virtually all segments of our city are represented.
Powerful, important confession launches Buddies’ 34th theater season in Toronto.
Buddies in Bad Times Theatre, a real-life oasis in Toronto, has been turned into a prison for the play Obaaberima. Sometimes being in jail is a good thing.
Obaaberima was created and performed by Tawiah M’carthy. The one-man play saw its genesis more than three years ago. Working with director/dramaturge Evalyn Parry, this labour of love is now paying huge dividends.
There’s an old truism that “you can’t really understand another person’s experience until you’ve walked a mile in their shoes”. Feral Child, now onstage at Berkeley Street Theatre, is about walking in another person’s shoes. I think.
I arrived really early and walked around the neighbourhood, exploring. George Brown College is a huge part of the community and the school year had just started. Young people, new to Toronto, were walking around, finding their bearings as well.
