鈥淚t鈥檚 a gift to be young,鈥� says the mother in As Little Children, a new play premiering at Trinity Western University this month. The play, a commissioned work by TWU alumna M.J. Eden, explores the power of faith in the face of tragic circumstances. The inspiring journey of a young girl鈥檚 belief in miracles is the heart of this poignant family drama.
When 12-year-old Aline loses her father, she refuses to believe he鈥檚 really gone.
Then one night, in her sleepy New Brunswick village, Aline sees a vision of a glowing apple tree. As the whispers of the forest propel her into a courageous quest, she encounters a force more powerful than even a child could imagine.
Even though her mother can鈥檛 bring herself to believe in miracles, Aline steps into a world aglow with innocence and hope. But is Aline鈥檚 faith strong enough to reunite her with what they have lost?
Directed by 91原创鈥檚 Kate Muchmore, As Little Children premieres at SAMC Theatre on Jan. 27.
鈥淭his script explores very real and relatable family dynamics,鈥� said Muchmore.
鈥淭he characters need help to move forward, and God reaches out to communicate with them in surprising ways. He opens their eyes to a fantastical and possibly more real world than this one. His choice to break into our world is why I love the story. There is humour, food for thought 鈥� everything you鈥檇 want from theatre.鈥�
Playwright Eden lives and works in New York City, and will be in 91原创 for the premiere. She will also host a Q&A talkback and reception with the audience after the Saturday matinee.
鈥淚鈥檓 finding that the pain in our lives can also hold joy,鈥� said Eden. 鈥淭hat鈥檚 one of the mysteries I explored as I wrote this play.
鈥淲ithin each of us there is a quiet place, a place where we can meet with God and with ourselves, and there鈥檚 peace there 鈥� in the midst of any circumstance.鈥�
Sponsored by Great-West Life, As Little Children stars Maple Ridge鈥檚 Elizabeth Drummond, Abbotsford鈥檚 Cody Friesen and Sharra Ganzeveld, and 91原创鈥檚 Shelby Wyminga. The show is assistant-directed by Charissa Hurt and stage managed by Teagan Plett.
Playing for one week only, Jan. 27 to 31, at 7:30 p.m. with a special playwright talkback after the 2 p.m. Saturday matinee.
For tickets and information, visit www.twu.ca/theatre or call 604-513-2121 extension 3872.
