This article by Jill Hayward was published in the Oct. 4, 2004, issue of the North Thompson Star/Journal. We’re sharing it with our readers once again in the hopes that in the near future we can all get back to enjoying these events again.
Humour was on the menu and laughter came as dessert at the recent presentation of “Jugs” presented by the Thompson Valley Players in Barriere.
Stuart Caulfield stole the show playing Sean, a not-so-bright Irish lad with a fancy for the fairer sex. Caulfield’s interpretation of this character, including facial expressions and eye rolling required no verbal explanation as to his thoughts and intent. Caulfield presented a strong stage presence and always managed to keep the audience watching his every move.
Brittanya Beddington, no stranger to Barriere residents, played the role of Janet, a bar maid lacking in public relations and work ethic, but well endowed with other attributes. Beddington took this role and ran with it, playing a character that the audience enjoyed at all levels.
Barmaid Ursula, played by Megan Ewart of McLure, provided a character that everyone could relate to. A hard-working woman with a good work ethic and a commitment to keeping her employment. Ewart carried this role comfortably and with enthusiasm.
Darfield’s Mickey Kinloch portrayed the character of Mickey, a bar regular, as though the part had been written for him. Kinloch’s quiet presence supported the plot and brought many laughs from the audience.
Charlotte Murray molded the character of Grace, Sean’s girlfriend, into the perfect match for Sean’s mistakes and misjudgements.
Anna Schlingermann and Bill Medland also took their turn on stage, adding to the overall quality and good presentation of this play written by former Barriere resident Mike Porter.
Cabaret seating for the audience, a cash bar and huge appetizer trays brought the set off the stage and the audience into the play.
Producer and director Beverly Murphy was well pleased with the results, stating she had been a little concerned that due to time constraints rehearsals had only taken place since the Labour Day weekend.
However, the cast pulled together and presented three nights of quality entertainment for valley residents.