Raising money and awareness for victims of violence through theatre
A Fredericton theatre company that raises money for local non-profits is taking on the subject of intimate partner violence through its newest production.
“The Spitfire Grill” follows three women escaping abusive relationships and their unique healing journeys, says Jill Pelkey, co-founder of Harmony Productions.
“It’s been a huge undertaking, in terms of discussion, where the content of the show is so heavy,” says Pelkey.
The production will donate a portion of the money raised by ticket sales to Transition House -- a shelter for women and children fleeing abuse in Fredericton.
Fellow Harmony Productions co-founder Katie Hazzard says her company tries to align the messages of its shows with community support groups in Fredericton.
“I’m looking forward to being able to tell this important story to our community,” said Hazzard.
The actors say playing the role of a woman escaping violence has given them a new understanding of the community to which they will be donating.
“The fact that some funds are going to Transition House, and that we are instrumental in helping make that donation means so much to me,” said lead actor Karen Frampton. “I love getting involved in different activities that give back to the community.”
Pelkey says, over the course of rehearsing, the company has scheduled time with each cast member to discuss the emotional weight of the show.
“And how you're really portraying real stories throughout this production, and how important it is to get that right,” said Pelkey.
The production of "The Spitfire Grill" will take place at Fredericton High School’s Tom Morrison Theatre from Sept. 29 to Oct. 1.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
What to know about avian influenza in dairy cows and the risk to humans
Why is H5N1, or bird flu, a concern, how does it spread, and is there a vaccine? Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about avian influenza.
'I was scared': Ontario man's car repossessed after missing two repair loan payments
An Ontario man who took out a loan to pay for auto repairs said his car was repossessed after he missed two payments.
opinion The special relationship between King Charles and the Princess of Wales
Royal commentator Afua Hagan writes that when King Charles recently admitted Catherine to the Order of the Companions of Honour, it not only made history, but it reinforced the strong bond between the King and his beloved daughter-in-law.
New Norad commander calls Canada's defence policy update 'very encouraging'
American troops will be spending more time training in the Far North, the new commander of Norad says, a strategy that fits 'hand-in-glove' with Canada's renewed focus on Arctic defence.
$70M Lotto Max winners kept prize a secret from family for 2 months
During a special winner celebration near their hometown, Doug and Enid shared the story of how they discovered they were holding a Lotto Max ticket worth $70 million and how they kept this huge secret for so long.
Are Canadians getting sick from expired food?
A new survey by Dalhousie University's Agri-Food Analytics Lab asked Canadians about their food consumption habits amid rising prices.
Documents reveal Ottawa's efforts to get Loblaw, Walmart on board with grocery code
It was evident to the federal government as early as last fall that Loblaw and Walmart might be holdouts to the grocery code of conduct, jeopardizing the project's success.
Charlie Woods, son of Tiger, shoots 81 in U.S. Open qualifier
Charlie Woods failed to advance in a U.S. Open local qualifying event Thursday, shooting a 9-over 81 at Legacy Golf & Tennis Club.
Improve balance and build core strength with this exercise
When it comes to cardiovascular fitness, you may tend to focus on activities that move you forward, such as walking, running and cycling.