'Miracle on South Division Street' marks return to live theatre for local company (9 photos)

With the resurgence of theatre after the pandemic, Sault Theatre Workshop is eager to bring you, Miracle on South Division Street.

Director George Houston, 69, laughs out loud at the mocking interactions between the four actors rehearsing on stage before him.

“It's a comedy about a family living in Buffalo, New York... where Clara and her three kids have grown up knowing they were special. It's part mystery, part comedy so, there's a lot of snappy dialogue to it and good rapport between the family,” said Houston enthusiastically.

Houston's brother, Harry is the producer of this production. He has been involved in theatre with his brother for over 30 years, and selecting this production was a joint effort.

“It's a family piece. I've always been attracted to the inter-workings of that dynamic, with all the traditions and cultural clashes,” said Harry.

The talented crew has transformed the Sault Studio stage into a modern-day setting taking place in a 70s-style kitchen, where a family has come together and is about to have a life-altering conversation.

One filled with praise, familial taunting, laughter and utter disbelief.

“The dynamics are typical children that come home. All the same mannerisms and pushing of buttons,” Harry said while adjusting his bolo tie, with a gleam in his eye.

The company typically produces four shows a year, according to Sault Theatre Workshop board member Wendylynn Corrigan, who also plays the eldest daughter Beverly Nowak.

However, things have changed drastically.

“We did a show at this time last year, but we had to cancel. We were set to go on the next week and they just shut everything down. SO! This is the first production we've done since,” said director George Houston. And he couldn't be more thrilled with this cast and crew.

Corrigan is performing alongside Carol MacLean who plays Clara Nowak, Jennifer Ramsay who plays Ruth the middle child, and Jake Huckson who plays the youngest Jimmy.

For them, theatre is their happy place. Where they can escape the mundane or chaos of their everyday. It's a place where they feel at home and alive.

“There's something special about theatre – you're telling stories that are powerful, people on stage with real emotions, and you're performing to a live community audience. There's really nothing like it,” said Harry.

An exclusive preview performance of the show will be taking place Tuesday, Nov. 30, where half of the proceeds from tickets purchased will go to the Sault Ste. Marie Lion's Club.

There will be five official showings of this production starting at 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 1 – Saturday, Dec. 4 and the matinee show, Sunday, Dec. 5 at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $30 for adults and $20 for students and seniors.

To purchase tickets and reserve seating, contact the box office at 705-946-4081.

Sault Theatre Workshop Studio theatre has a general capacity of 108 people, half capacity of 54, as per updated Algoma Public Health restrictions. However, for additional safety precautions, the Sault Theatre Workshop board of directors has decided to limit attendance to 30 patrons per performance. All attendees must show proof of double vaccination and provide contact information.