THUNDER BAY – Home: A Bluegrass Celebration is back by popular demand and is opening on Magnus Theatre’s Boshcoff Summer Stage on July 14.
This original music revue was conceived and written by Thunder Bay playwright and actor Jo-Ann Waytowich, who has appeared in over a dozen Magnus Theatre productions spanning over two decades, most recently in 2019 for Ivanka: Pasta, Salami and a Guy Named Pasquale.
The inspiration for the latest show came during the pandemic lockdowns when Waytowich was sequestered to her home and embraced her creative outlet to pass the time meaningfully.
The result is an original play that features bluegrass music for a hilarious and relatable look at the year in isolation from the point of view of three women at different stages of life.
Directed by Magnus Theatre Artistic Director Thom Currie, with musical direction by celebrated local musician Danny Johnson, the production features an ensemble of local actors and musicians.
“After the success of Home last season, we knew we wanted to bring this musical to the stage for those who didn’t get a chance to see it last season,” said Currie. “The new Saddlespan tent allows the cast to bring a new, open-air experience to the audience and community.”
The cast is made up of Jo-Ann Waytowich, Danny Johnson, Susie Campbell, and Jasmine Madeo, accompanied by a four-piece band including Robert Balabuck on Banjo, Martin Blanchet on Bass, Olivia Korkola on fiddle, and Dan Zadkovich on mandolin.
Tickets are available on Magnus Theatre’s website or by phone at 807-345-5552.
The show runs from July 14 until July 30, with a Pay What You Can matinee performance on Sept. 19.
