Barkerville Historic Town's renowned Theatre Royal opens its 2014 season with a gala event and dance party on June 21.
The event begins with the annual general meeting of the Barkerville Heritage Trust at 11 a.m. and ends with a boot-stomping shindig from 9 p.m. onwards at the House Hotel Saloon.
Between 4 and 7 p.m., the cast and crew of Newman & Wright Theatre Company will manage to squeeze in the premieres of two brand-new musical shows, as well as raise some much-appreciated funds in a hilarious charity auction in support of their authentic theatrical endeavours.
"Rehearsals are over, and once again they've been well worth the effort," says Theatre Royal producer Richard Wright.
"We are very excited to present The Return of Lafont & Ward's Musical Revue, and our newest musical drama, Campfires & Trails: the Captain Jack Crawford Story."
Every summer season since Barkerville was first declared a provincial heritage site more than 50 years ago, a passionate troupe of actors, singers, dancers and musicians assemble in the historic town to re‐create the joy and creativity of the original Theatre Royal, which was built in 1868 to provide much-needed respite to generations of Cariboo miners, businesspeople, and families throughout the late-19th and early-20th centuries.
"Barkerville has always been fortunate to attract creative and talented people from all over the world who come together each season to help us celebrate the opening of the Theatre Royal," says James Douglas, Barkerville's manager of Visitor Experiences.
"The Barkerville Heritage Trust is proud to support this tradition, and we are thankful to those members of our local and provincial governments, businesses, and the community at large who support us year after year."
For more information about Barkerville's Theatre Royal Gala, or any of this season's special events, please visit www.barkerville.ca/events.htm.