It was 20 years ago on Pender Island when Grace Jordan first thrilled audiences with her embracing of the role of Shirley Valentine in an outdoor summer venue.
For people unfamiliar with the award-winning play by Willy Russell, it centres on a middle-aged woman who is discontented with her housewife role in life, and who transforms as a result of taking a trip to Greece with a friend. While the theme is a serious one, the play is full of humour.
After performing as Shirley Valentine a number of times in a variety of venues since her Pender debut, Jordan is mounting the show one last time, from Thursday, Aug. 1 through Monday, Aug. 5, at her family’s beautiful Stonewell Farm property at 1852 Fulford-Ganges Rd. on Lee’s Hill. (Parking and the gate entrance is at the top of the driveway next door at 1860 Fulford-Ganges Rd. Follow the signs.) The gate opens at 5:30 p.m. and people can get into the spirit of the play by purchasing Greek tapas, desserts, wine and other beverages, with the show beginning at 7:30 p.m.
The Jordan production is unique in its intimacy and charm: put on by a family-run theatre company hosted outside on their own farm property and with homemade treats as well.
Tickets are available online through eventbrite or at the door. People should bring lawnchairs, blankets and cushions, although some bench seating with cushions is also available.
The event is also a benefit for Islanders Working Against Violence.