Shaw Festival’s Main Stage Lights Up with The Amen Corner and The Clearing

Prepare to be enthralled! The Shaw Festival’s main stage is about to burst into action with not one, but two captivating productions that promise to keep you glued to your seats. It’s a double treat as The Amen Corner and The Clearing step into the spotlight, bringing drama, emotion, and sheer brilliance to the stage.

First up is the powerful “The Amen Corner,” a masterpiece by James Baldwin that delves into the intricate web of human and sacred love. Under the skilled direction of Kimberley Rampersad, the Festival Theatre will resonate with soul-stirring songs performed by a gospel choir, elevating the experience to a whole new level.

Follow the journey of Margaret Alexander (Janelle Cooper), a devoted pastor of a Harlem church, as she grapples with her estranged husband’s return and her son’s rebellion. The play takes you through a rollercoaster of identity, redemption, and the clash between personal beliefs and societal expectations. With an ensemble cast that includes Allan Louis, Andrew Broderick, and more, “The Amen Corner” is poised to deliver an unforgettable performance.

But the theatrical treat doesn’t stop there. Right across the courtyard at the Jackie Maxwell Studio Theatre, “The Clearing” awaits. In this gripping production directed by Jessica Carmichael, you’ll be transported to 17th-century Ireland, a land under the oppressive thumb of British colonial rule.

Meet Robert (Kelly Wong) and Madeleine (Bahareh Yaraghi), an Englishman and his Irish wife, whose lives are torn apart by a heart-wrenching decision. As they grapple with love, loyalty, and the quest for freedom, their struggles come to life in a tale that promises to tug at your heartstrings.

Both productions boast incredible design and talent. “The Amen Corner” features awe-inspiring set design by Anahita Dehbonehie and evocative lighting by Mikael Kangas. The gospel choir’s music direction by Jeremiah Sparks adds a melodious touch that’ll resonate in your soul. As for “The Clearing,” Michelle Tracey’s set design and Asa Benally’s costume design transport you back in time, while Kevin Lamotte’s lighting design and Chris Ross-Ewart’s music and sound design create an immersive experience.

These shows aren’t just about entertainment; they’re about thought-provoking storytelling that reflects the complexities of human life. So, whether you’re a theatre aficionado or just looking for a remarkable night out, “The Amen Corner” and “The Clearing” are here to deliver an unforgettable dose of drama, emotion, and artistry.

Don’t miss your chance to witness these captivating productions. “The Amen Corner” runs from July 30 to October 8 at the Festival Theatre, while “The Clearing” takes the stage from August 3 to October 6 at the Jackie Maxwell Studio Theatre. Get ready to be moved, inspired, and thoroughly entertained!

Shaw Festival’s Main Stage Lights Up with The Amen Corner and The Clearing

Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON (July 27, 2023) — Prepare to be enthralled! The Shaw Festival’s main stage is about to burst into action with not one, but two captivating productions that promise to keep you glued to your seats. It’s a double treat as The Amen Corner and The Clearing step into the spotlight, bringing drama, emotion, and sheer brilliance to the stage.

First up is the powerful “The Amen Corner,” a masterpiece by James Baldwin that delves into the intricate web of human and sacred love. Under the skilled direction of Kimberley Rampersad, the Festival Theatre will resonate with soul-stirring songs performed by a gospel choir, elevating the experience to a whole new level.

Follow the journey of Margaret Alexander (Janelle Cooper), a devoted pastor of a Harlem church, as she grapples with her estranged husband’s return and her son’s rebellion. The play takes you through a rollercoaster of identity, redemption, and the clash between personal beliefs and societal expectations. With an ensemble cast that includes Allan Louis, Andrew Broderick, and more, “The Amen Corner” is poised to deliver an unforgettable performance.

But the theatrical treat doesn’t stop there. Right across the courtyard at the Jackie Maxwell Studio Theatre, “The Clearing” awaits. In this gripping production directed by Jessica Carmichael, you’ll be transported to 17th-century Ireland, a land under the oppressive thumb of British colonial rule.

Meet Robert (Kelly Wong) and Madeleine (Bahareh Yaraghi), an Englishman and his Irish wife, whose lives are torn apart by a heart-wrenching decision. As they grapple with love, loyalty, and the quest for freedom, their struggles come to life in a tale that promises to tug at your heartstrings.

Both productions boast incredible design and talent. “The Amen Corner” features awe-inspiring set design by Anahita Dehbonehie and evocative lighting by Mikael Kangas. The gospel choir’s music direction by Jeremiah Sparks adds a melodious touch that’ll resonate in your soul. As for “The Clearing,” Michelle Tracey’s set design and Asa Benally’s costume design transport you back in time, while Kevin Lamotte’s lighting design and Chris Ross-Ewart’s music and sound design create an immersive experience.

These shows aren’t just about entertainment; they’re about thought-provoking storytelling that reflects the complexities of human life. So, whether you’re a theatre aficionado or just looking for a remarkable night out, “The Amen Corner” and “The Clearing” are here to deliver an unforgettable dose of drama, emotion, and artistry.

Don’t miss your chance to witness these captivating productions. “The Amen Corner” runs from July 30 to October 8 at the Festival Theatre, while “The Clearing” takes the stage from August 3 to October 6 at the Jackie Maxwell Studio Theatre. Get ready to be moved, inspired, and thoroughly entertained!