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Theatre soliciting funds to stage rock opera

Some 23 Central Alberta artists want to stage an original rock opera to further enrich Red Deer’s cultural scene.

Some 23 Central Alberta artists want to stage an original rock opera to further enrich Red Deer’s cultural scene.

But they need some financial help to do it.

Against the Wall Theatre is seeking public donations to help mount Dead Lover’s Day, a 10-actor production written by former Red Deer College student Alexandra Mihill.

The two-hour musical is being produced and directed, respectively, by Amy Erlandson and Jenna Goldade, who spent “many a day growing up in the lovely city of Red Deer with nothing to do.”

Having graduated from theatre school, they are now intent on bringing some culture and entertainment to this city’s vastly growing population by putting on thought-provoking productions — such as the critically praised Choke, through their Against the Wall Theatre group.

The group also stages monthly Bull Skit! comedy nights.

Goldade said $800 has already been raised towards the $2,000 needed to stage the rock opera about two lovers who are separated by death. It runs March 31 to April 9 at the Scott Block downtown, with tickets for $18 ($15 students)

“Any donation counts. We would gladly receive $3, $10, $100 — whatever you can afford,” said Goldade, who added every donor’s name will be entered into a draw to receive a pair of free tickets for the opening night performance.

Go to the group’s website, www.atwtheatre.com, scroll to the bottom, and click on the “Donate” icon. Goldade promises it will feel good.

“By donating to Dead Lover’s Day, you are not only supporting a local theatre company, you are also supporting 23 artists from Red Deer and Central Alberta.”

Against the Wall Theatre also intends to put on a fundraising gala on March 19 at the Scott Block, with more details to follow.

For more information, the group can be emailed at againstthewalltheatre@gmail.com

lmichelin@www.reddeeradvocate.com