The kick-off show for the Many Hats Theatre Co. 11th season is a comedic gem that brings to life something everyone can relate to — the complexities of relationships.
“It’s two couples. It’s a comedy, and when I first read it I saw it as very reminiscent of an I Love Lucy episode,” director Jane Pilkey said. “It’s very he said/she said and shows the angst that happens between husband and wife and how it gets out of control.”
Buying the Moose, written by Canadian playwright Michael G. Wilmot, is about the ways couples communicate — or rather, miscommunicate.
When Betty (Shannon French) returns early from a business trip, she comes home to find her husband Rob (Jason Lane) neck deep in an awkward situation involving a blow up doll and a tube top. Fleeing from the house, Betty is left wondering just what sort of deviant she’s been married to, while Rob insists that it’s not as bad as it seems.
The next morning Rob’s brother Greg (Tony Collins) comes over to find out just what happened the night before, while Betty goes to cry on the shoulder of her sister-in-law Cheryl (Christa Phillips). As Greg and Cheryl probe for answers about what happened, the truth starts to come out and nothing really is what it seems.
“It’s a fantastic cast. They’re great to work with. Tony Collins is working really hard and has great comedic timing,” said Pilkey. “Christa and Shannon are longtime players. They’re hillarious to watch in this. Jason Lane, this is his very first time with Many Hats. It’s his first time as an actor in a play. He’s part of an improv group in town. He’s able to direction really well and has great natural instincts.”
Pilkey said the play is perfect this time of year to break up the winter doldrums.
“It’s side-splitting, a laugh a minute. It truly is a fun play. Everyone can relate if you’re married or not. It’s a fun production, nothing very heavy profound or anything, a really fun comedy,” she said.
The production involves adult themes and language.
The 11th season kicks off Feb. 8 on the Cannery Stage in the Cannery Trade Centre. Adult tickets are $25 (including GST), seniors and students are $22. The two-act show runs until March 3 on Thursday, Friday, Saturday starting at 8 p.m. and Sunday matinees are 2 p.m.
Tickets can be bought at the box office at the Next and Nectar. Call 250-493-07275 for more information.