Way Off Broadway blockbuster

In the annals of musical theatre, Becket Players’ annual Way Off Broadway extravaganza is a West Island institution.

Now in its 35th year, the company’s blockbuster shows have raised over $4 million for children's charities.

“Our mantra is, if you want to know if we’re doing good, take a walk through hospitals like the Montreal Children’s and Ste. Justine’s. If that doesn’t inspire you nothing will,” said Ed Lareau, director of Rhythm of Time, the cabaret segment of the show.

Way Off Broadway opens Friday at the Dollard des Ormeaux Civic Centre.

“The show has an overarching theme. We wanted to span time, and explore the evolution of humanity through music and dance. We’ve gone with recognizable songs from the 20th century – there’s some Buddy Holly, Beatles, Motown numbers and others with a Latin flavour,” the Pointe Claire resident said.

“We’ll also show a video of the cultural and social evolution of North America, which ends with Barack Obama being sworn in as president,” he said, adding, “we hope it gives audiences something to chew on.”

“Our goal is to put on as professional and polished a production as possible within our budgets. The people involved are amateur in name only; the show rivals anything you’d see at the Casino.”

Each year, Way Off Broadway brings together hundreds of volunteers who rally for the cause.

“People are there as a team. Egos are set aside,” said Dan Gustafson, who makes his directorial debut with After the Ever After, the musical comedy which precedes the cabaret.

Written by Becket members David Gordon and Tracey Hunziker, the play “tells the story of famous fairy tale and Disney characters, and what happens to them after the book closes,” the Ste. Genevieve resident explained.

Snow White is still chaste and sweet, while on the other hand “Prince Charming has let himself go.”

Villains like Cruella De Ville and Captain Hook are among those who make an appearance.

Songs are primarily from well-known Broadway productions, with musical accompaniment by a full orchestra.

“A lot are professional musicians who donate their time; we’re blessed,” Gastafson said.

“And while people on stage (there are upwards of 50) get the glory, without the others behind the scenes we’d be nothing.”

Way off Broadway 2009 will be presented May, 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, and 23 at 8 p.m. at 12001 de Salaberry Blvd. For tickets call 514-465-3029 or visit www.becketplayers.ca.

Evan Provost