Norman Davenport thinks of himself as a man living out-of-time in the early 21st century.
He yearns for a simpler existence in the Victorian age, when people were well-dressed, “culture flourished” and manners and politeness were in vogue.
The next Central Alberta Theatre comedy, The Gentleman Clothier which opens on Feb. 9 and runs to Feb. 17 at Festival Hall, gives Davenport a chance to explore his wistful desire — and to ultimately question whether he’s as old-fashioned as he thinks he is.
This time-travelling two-act play by Norm Foster starts with the opening of a men’s clothing store.
Davenport, a bachelor tailor, has long wanted to hang out his shingle and operate his own retail outlet. But no sooner has he unlocked the shop doors than he’s beset by job seekers — including persuasive Sophie, whose enthusiasm outstrips her sewing experience, and Patrick who’s desperate for employment so he can support his sick daughter.
The tangled plot of The Gentleman Clothier also eventually encompasses Alisha, a customer who comes browsing for a suit for her husband. Davenport is immediately smitten with this attractive, married woman, further complicating his life.
Described as providing “timeless laughter and high fashion,” this nostalgic comedy is directed by Aaron Vanderweg. The Sylvan Lake resident, who was a double winner (for acting and new play) at last year’s regional Heartland One-Act Play Festival, urged “Don’t miss this captivating journey into time, bridging Victorian England ideals with modern sensibilities.”
Assistant director Ronen Eagles considers this play to be a dram-edy. “It’s got great moments of characters and relationships that are authentic and beautiful, and also some really fun comedic moments sprinkled throughout.”
The Gentleman Clothier, with an ever-timely message about living in the here and now and forsaking wishful longings for the past, features local actors Richard Doran, Ashley Del Carmen, Zoe Smibert, and Brock Beal.
Play-only performances at 7:30 p.m. will be held on Feb. 8, 10, 15, and 16 (doors open at 7:00 p.m.)
Dinner theatre shows are on Feb. 9 and 17 at 6:00 p.m. (doors open at 5:30 p.m.) And a brunch matinee will be held on Feb. 11 (doors open at 10:30 a.m). Tickets are available online at www.showpass.com/o/central-alberta-theatre/, or by calling the Central Alberta Theatre Box Office 403-967-1769.