Gallery 7 Theatre presents its production of William Golding’s classic Lord of the Flies, starting Friday, Nov. 7.
The production, which opens Gallery 7’s 2014/2015 Refined by Fire season, has been adapted for the stage by Nigel Williams and runs at the Abbotsford Arts Centre, 2329 Crescent Way.
In the midst of nuclear war, an airplane carrying English school boys crashes on a deserted island.
Forced to fend for themselves, the survivors attempt to scrape together a civilized society governed by simple rules and regulations.
Afflicted by fear of an evil beast lurking on the island, and as the lust for power and control takes over, the cadre’s fragile paradise quickly disintegrates into savage and violent anarchy.
“Though the play is dark, it does have moments of humour, and we’re looking forward to maximizing the technical resources available at the Abbotsford Arts Centre to create a dynamic and exciting experience,” says Gallery 7 executive director Ken Hildebrandt, the play’s director.
Playing the central character of Ralph is Philip Dyck, whose other performances with Gallery 7 Theatre include The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Having Hope at Home.
Ralph’s archrival and nemesis, Jack, is played by Matt Veenbaas, who last appeared in The Hiding Place.
Piggy, the long-suffering advocate for societal law and order, is played by Michael McIntyre, while the brooding and dangerous Roger is played by newcomer Attila Davalovsky.
Nathan Unger and Dylan Schroeder play Samneric (Sam and Eric) respectively, while Bailey Tonn takes on the role of Simon.
Rounding out the cast are Andrew Dyck, Mark Hammer, Evan Rachwalski and Michael Witmer. The role of the naval officer is played by veteran performer Ruth Kult.
Set design is by Rafaella Rabinovich, costume design is by Dani DeJong, lighting design is by Phil Miguel and sound design is by Ron Jackson.
Stage manager is Kenzie Hall and production photographer is Dianna Lewis of Creative Memory Studios.
Lord of the Flies runs Nov. 7 and 8 and 13-15 at 7:30 p.m. with discount matinees on Nov. 8 and 15 at 2 p.m.
Tickets range from $15 to $23. They are available at House of James (2743 Emerson St.), online at gallery7theatre.com or by calling 1-800-665-8828 or 604-852-3701. Lord of the Flies comes with an audience advisory that there is occasional violence and minimal crude language.