This year’s Spring All Ages Play was always going to be a big deal, but we never could have imagined it would be as monumental as it became. To celebrate the 20th anniversary of these productions, former Artistic Director and the founder of the All Ages Plays, Kathi Langston, was invited back to direct. She decided to revisit her adaptation of the beloved Canadian classic, Anne of Green Gables. This production also marked OST’s return to the grand Harold Shenkman Hall.
Like I said, it was always going to be an All Ages celebration for the books. How could it get better? Enter OST Board Member Chantal Gregoire.
“[Artistic Director Megan Piercey Monafu and I] saw a great opportunity to not only mark the milestone but also promote the play in a big way,” says Chantal. “That’s when the idea of collaborating with the wider Orléans community came up. By partnering with local businesses, we could expand our reach and build excitement.”
OST partnered with Heart of Orléans BIA for the event. This was a key part in making Chantal and Megan’s vision a reality. Not only was Heart of Orléans BIA a major sponsor, but they played a vital role in helping build relationships with local businesses. This was especially important when it came to organizing the Amazing Race Orléans.
“What made this initiative especially rewarding was the enthusiastic response we received from the business community,” says Chantal. “They were genuinely excited to take part in an event that not only supported our theatre fundraiser but also gave them a creative way to spotlight their own businesses…Their enthusiasm really helped bring the event to life.”
Local donors and businesses also donated items towards a silent auction.
With a variety of offerings, the FUNdraiser stayed true to the spirit of Anne. It was important to Chantal to select vendors and activities that reflected the era of the story, such as handmade soaps, hand sewn aprons and specialty teas. As a playful nod to one of the book’s most iconic scenes (the raspberry cordial incident), OST partnered with Stray Dog Brewery to create a custom raspberry beer, which was cheekily named Mrs. Barry’s Nightmare. It was delicious.
Inspired by Anne’s love of books, a community book sale was also organized. Chantal explains, “I began collecting donations back in September, and before long, my basement was overflowing with generous contributions from our neighbors. It was heartwarming to see how much people wanted to support the event.”
After raising $4000 with the Anne of Green Gables FUNdraiser, Chantal couldn’t be happier with how everything turned out.
“It was an absolute blast, and the feedback from the community has been overwhelmingly positive,” she explains. “At OST, we are committed to making theatre education accessible and affordable for everyone. That’s why a portion of the funds raised from the event will go towards the student subsidy program, which helps cover tuition costs for families who may not otherwise be able to participate. Supporting this initiative ensures that more young people in our community can experience the joy and growth that theatre education offers.”
Fast-forward to June. Anne of Green Gables sold out as the sets were being built on the stage of Harold Shenkman Hall. With the remarkable performances, and beautiful sets and costumes, audiences were left enthralled. You could feel the love and care every single person involved in this All Ages Play put into the show.
Now, the theatre is dark, the sets taken down, the celebration has come to a close. Memories from rehearsals, the sold out run, and the FUNdraiser will live on. And the legacy of Anne lives on, thanks to the generosity of the community who supported us along the way.