From press release

A new musical drama – that explores the fear, complications and realities of living with HIV/AIDS in our society today. The narrative revolves around Michael – a gay man who comes to realize the pain of “dis-ease” and is forced to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges to gain a much deeper understanding of self and the complex world around him. 

LIVING WITH HENRY features some of Toronto’s best professional musical theatre talents including: Dora Award winning performer Ryan Kelly (Mamma Mia, Real JT LeRoy), Dale Miller (Les Mis, CATS, Forever Plaid), Lizzie Kurtz (CATS, Forever Swing), Vince Staltari (Evita, Kiss Me Kate), Mary Kelly (Napolean) and Christian Bellsmith (Evil Dead – The Musical, The Buddy Holly Story). LIVING WITH HENRY is written by performer Christopher Wilson (book, music & lyrics), directed and choreographed by Donna Marie Baratta, musically directed by Dan Rutzen and stage managed by Steve Minnie.

Very few dramatic works currently frame HIV as a chronic illness rather than a death sentence, following the stigma created by the epidemic that ravaged the gay community in the 1980’s and 90’s. Despite abundant resources and incredible medical advancements, there is still a great deal of fear, ignorance and misunderstanding associated with living with HIV – and these issues continue to confront the gay community today.

Though this theatrical piece is specific to HIV/AIDS, it strives to present a universal theme in terms of overcoming seemingly insurmountable challenges – to arrive at a place of peace and deeper understanding. This engaging, entertaining and thought-provoking musical will ideally inspire and challenge others to do the work necessary to overcome their personal obstacles.

 

Beyond Boundaries

with The Toronto Fringe Festival

presents

 

LIVING WITH HENRY

written and composed by Christopher Wilson

direction and choreography by Donna Marie Baratta

musical direction by Dan Rutzen

 

featuring Ryan Kelly, Dale Miller, Lizzie Kurtz, Vince Staltari, Mary Kelly and Christian Bellsmith

 

stage managed by Steve Minnie

lighting design by Michael Kruse

set and costume design by Laura Gardner

opens July 7th and runs to July 17th

@ The George Ignatieff Theatre – 15 Devonshire Place, Toronto, Ontario

 

performances:

Thursday, July 7, 2011 @ 8:15 PM

Friday, July 8, 2011 @ 3:00 PM

Sunday, July 10, 2011 @ 10:00 PM

Tuesday, July 12, 2011 @ 10:30 PM

Wednesday, July 13, 2011 @ 12:00 PM

Thursday, July 14, 2011 @ 7:30 PM

Sunday, July 17, 2011 @ 5:15 PM

 

Please note this is a 90-minute show with no intermission.

 

ticket prices: $11 in advance, $10 at the door

 

tickets go on sale on June 15th and are available by phoning the Fringe Box Office at (416) 966-1062 or at www.fringetoronto.com