George has always been passionate about theatre, but didn’t know it. As a young boy he was mesmerized by professional wrestling. “Rowdy” Roddy Piper was an early role model. Shortly thereafter, the explosive histrionics of Pete Townshend would supersede this Canadian icon. George’s attention later turned to American theatre. Jello Biafra became a seminal influence. The “Do It Yourself” ethic was firmly embraced by Perry, and he ventured into the vast repetoire of artists like Paul Westerberg and Steve Albini. As a young adult, he was re-introduced to the works of Townshend. His then girlfriend, Michelle, was hugely impressed by the theatrical production of The Who’s “Tommy”. He meandered through factories, schools, border towns and Michigan for a very long time afterwards. He eventually landed in Toronto. All these influences were brought together in one kettle when George discovered Mooney on Theatre. He understands and personifies that theatre is indeed for everyone. To further this end goal, he contributes.
Toronto’s Nextstage Theatre Festival is more than just another theatre festival. Likewise, Tom’s a-cold is more than just another play about Canada, or even Toronto. The Factory Theatre hosts this gem, and of course The Factory is more than just another theatre.
My journey to see Eating With Lola (Sulong Theatre Company) began by trudging through the slush of a half-clean Toronto. My mood improved dramatically as my streetcar approached The Factory Theatre. Seeing the outdoor rinks made me feel like a kid driving into the exciting city from Dullsville.
Tea at the Palace (Puppetmongers) is currently onstage in Toronto at The Tarragon Theatre Extra Space. It is great fun for parents, children, families and single people wishing they had a family. The play retells two old Russian fables using puppets.
I was really looking forward to seeing Mojo. It is played in a rented warehouse in Toronto’s east end. The company is Ezra’s Atlantic Co-op. It is really hard not to be a fan of these folks. They have been mounting plays in unconventional locations throughout Toronto for years.
The play was written by Jez Butterworth in 1995 and premiered at The Royal Court Theatre in London, England. It is billed as a dark comedy that looks at the backrooms of the British rock scene in the late 1950s.
In Toronto, Asiansploitation ages better at Factory Studio Theatre
Asiansploitation Spanks The Tiger returned to a Toronto stage after an acclaimed Fringe run. The most recent production is billed as the “Director’s Cut.” Factory Studio Theatre hosted three sold out performances December 02-04.