Parks Canada Summer Heritage Theatre Program

Stephanie HainesTheatre Programs Manager

Parks Canada

Outline• Parks Canada Players (blending Theatre with Interpretation)

• Challenges / The Good Side

• Lessons Learned

• Things to Consider

Theatre and Interpretation• Summer Heritage Theatre Program (2005-2010)• “Parks Canada Players” – group of actors/directors/singers/dancers • Perform interactive plays on 5 of Parks Canada’s heritage sites: Fort Wellington Bellevue House Laurier House Rideau Canal

St. Lawrence Islands

Rideau Canal, Ottawa, ON “Ghosts and Echoes of the Rideau”

This collection of ghost stories, legends, folklore and re-enactments is performed interactively with the audience, and gives a one-of-a-kind Rideau Canal Experience. You're never sure who might appear!

Laurier House, Ottawa, ON “Confliction”

Enjoy an insider's point of view of the political personalities that lived here during the first half of the 20th century. Two of Canada's most celebrated prime ministers make appearances throughout this one-hour interactive experience. Enjoy tea and theatre on the veranda. Includes a guided tour of the house.

Bellevue House, Kingston, ON

“John A.”Sir John A. Macdonald reflects on his life over a glass of scotch. He recalls his father, whom he could never please, his wives, the son he lost and the friends with whom he caroused. Finally, he recalls Louis Riel, and a difficult and somewhat regrettable decision, as he wonders what kind of lasting effect this decision will have on the rest of Canada. Includes afternoon tea.

Fort Wellington Prescott, ON

“Treasures Lost and Found” – Fort WellingtonEncounter characters from the past as you relive Fort Wellington’s fascinating history as the Parks Canada Players present “Treasures Lost and Found”. Characters from the Fort emerge from the shadows, reliving exciting moments from their past.

St. Lawrence Islands“Stepping Stones”

This fast-paced show takes the audience on an historical and ecological journey through the islands. Have you ever wondered why the turtle crossed the road? Find out this summer!

Summer Heritage Theatre Program Objectives

1. To increase visitation to the sites

3. To increase Parks Canada Agency’s visibility within Eastern Ontario

5. To offer personal interpretive programming by continuing the tradition of excellence through continuous improvement

7. To engage visitor experience while educating audiences with regard to the messages of significance of Canada’s national treasures

Summer Schedule• May / June – Rehearsal Period (including workshop of new plays)• July / August – Show period (on 5 of Parks Canada’s sites + festivals)

Show Schedule (July/August)WEEKDAY TIME Show LOCATION

Wednesdays 12pm “Ghosts & Echoes” Ottawa LocksThursdays 8pm “Treasures Lost & Found” Fort WellingtonFridays 2pm “John A.” Bellevue HouseFridays 8pm “Stepping Stones” various Saturdays (July)8pm “Ghosts & Echoes” festivalsSaturdays (Aug) 8pm “Ghosts & Echoes” Ottawa LocksSundays 1&3pm “Confliction” Laurier House

The Good Side• Entertaining way to learn about Canadian history• Engaging way to experience National Historic Sites• Nature of venues = opportunity for interactivity / creativity• Employing the youth of today to be the professionals of tomorrow• Creative artists are employed (professionally) in Ottawa• Audience appreciation

Challenges• Finding the optimal balance (between education and entertainment)• Degree of accuracy / relevancy to Canadian history• Pleasing a mass audience (wide variety of ages, educational background, etc.)• Finding costumes (i.e. ensuring historical accuracy)• Finding specific props (historic)• Seating arrangements• Passersby • Wind / rain / noise / birds• Lack of technology• Repetition (on part of actors – keeping it fresh)• FSWEP

Lessons Learned / Things to Consider

• Can’t have enough hours dedicated to publicity / marketing• Don’t underestimate the value of research (i.e. stats on audiences)• Interactivity• Singing / dancing (+++)• Autonomy• Hide your stress (as a director)

Comments / Questions?