Stunning triumph in Guelph!
2003 October 02
The play referred to on the TERA website (www.tera.ca) (September 15) was premiered tonight in Guelph, Ontario, to a standing ovation. And so deserved it was! The Strong Breast Revolution, directed by Vicki Hambley and co-written by her and the actors, is the kind of artistic creation TERA has been looking for throughout its existence.
The play consists of several linked skits that shout out (sometimes literally) respect for women, their breasts, and topfreedom. They deal with body image, breastfeeding, breast disease, and much more, including reactions to breasts and to topfreedom from family, friends, and strangers. Some of the lines and actions are uproariously funny, some are piercingly poignant.
All four actors are current or recent students at the University of Guelph. The play includes stories that come from their lives. So not only do they expose their breasts (the entire play is done topfree), but their problems and insecurities too. It is brilliant theatre, and very moving.
Speaking of moving in a different sense, the women do a fair bit of jumping and dancing on stage. Their energy infected the audience, as did their complete understanding, devotion, and communication. After the performance, they came back on stage, still topfree, for half an hour's discussion with the audience.
Beaming throughout was Sue Richards, creator of the Breast of Canada calendar, whose 2004 launch occurs with the week of performances of the play. Sue herself, with natural stage presence, chatted with the audience before the play began.
The four women acting are Laurel Atkinson, Melannie Gayle, Christine Lafazanos, and Meagan Timms; and Jessica Strothard is the stage manager.
TERA urges everyone who possibly can to see this play and calendar launch. This is potentially a world-changing event -- and it would be just that if only the troupe could go to hundreds of towns around North America.
Details about both calendar and play (in Guelph, Ontario until October 9) are at the Breast of Canada website. For tickets, phone 519 763 3000.
TERA