For the second edition in a row, the Nelson Star is pleased to bring readers behind the scenes of local theatre on our cover and inside pages. With such a huge November at the Capitol Theatre, it’s hard not to shine a spotlight on Victoria Street.
Today’s front page photo features Lisel Forst fully into her character as she prepares for the annual Christmas pantomime, which will stage Sherlock Holmes: The Hounds of Buskerville. On Page 2 you can see more action from the Sunday rehearsal that features 50 local actors of all ages.
The annual pantomime is a fundraiser for the Capitol. It brings together stage veterans and first-timers in a highly entertaining and energetic late-November romp. For more than two decades it has become a pre-Christmas staple of the local entertainment calendar. This year’s show will once again be a triumph of great local talent and is not to be missed.
On Page 12 you can read about this week’s main event at the Capitol: Jesus Christ Superstar. In the works since last spring, the Kevin Armstrong-directed production of the rock opera classic features a cast of more than 50, a 16-piece orchestra and an incredible set design. It brings together some of the best talent this community has to offer and some undiscovered gems that will not soon be forgotten.
Two huge shows in the span of a month is nothing new for the Capitol Theatre, but it’s been a while since there has been this much local talent on stage in such a short stretch.
Other than great entertainment, this November once again asserts the importance of the theatre itself. Not many rural Canadian communities can boast such a vibrant local theatre scene and without a proper venue none of it would be possible.
This is your theatre Nelson and this month is a time to celebrate it. With more than 100 locals taking the stage over the next couple weeks, there’s never been a better time to get your ticket to a show.