FARNDALE AVENUE HOUSING ESTATE TOWNSWOMEN'S GUILD DRAMATIC SOCIETY PRODUCTION OF A CHRISTMAS CAROL - THEATRE WEST VAN

Farndale Avenue… “Christmas Carol” at the Kay Meek Centre in West Vancouver was directed by Angie McLeod. The conceit of this play within a play is upheld comprehensively with even the publicity materials in the lobby displaying the "in world" casting, so as soon as you enter the theatre you are already in the  play!

We have to commend the company for taking on such a difficult task. As the old saying goes, Dying is easy, Comedy is hard! They could have made a dreadful hash of it. The stumbling, bumbling of the Farndale Dramatic Society could lead one to think that they could waltz through without precision. They would be wrong! Comedy requires precise timing while seeming effortless.

The cast has a range of experience, from neophytes to old hands with resumes as long as your arm. It’s nice to see young talent getting an opportunity to perform alongside well-seasoned performers. It truly is an ensemble piece, with each of the actors balancing the dynamic so that no one character steals the show. 

We were surprised that the show didn’t have better attendance. For $22 a seat, this show is a steal! We would recommend it as a must see in this Christmas theatre season.

Farndale Avenue... "Christmas Carol" is playing at the Kay Meek Centre until 10 November 2018.
Tickets at: kaymeek.com/events/farndale-9

Personal aside from Ian regarding the location:
​Linda and I use an evening out at the theatre to have a nice meal as well as a fun time at the theatre. An hour’s drive from Langley (where we live) to West Van wasn’t daunting. I am sure many people who live in Vancouver wouldn’t think of making the trip. For us it was worth it.

Surprisingly, we had a bit of a hunt for a restaurant in that part of West Van. When we did find one, we were seated without a reservation only to be told our seat was booked for a party due a half hour later. We were asked to leave the Amici Restaurant. I was so shocked, I missed the opportunity to use the line, “I will have you know I’ve been thrown out of better places than this!”

~ reviewed by Ian and Linda Harrison