Theatre company 'looks to the past for post-pandemic future'

Sault Theatre Workshop (STW) is looking to the past in an effort to raise money for its post-pandemic future.

On Saturday night, it’s hosting a drive-in theatre showing of two vintage classics.

The shows start at 8:30 p.m. in the STW parking lot on 121 Pittsburgh Ave. The featured films are Phantom of the Opera starring Lon Chaney, and Cyrano de Bergarac with Jose Ferrer.

“There are a lot of great classic movies out there that are still very enjoyable,” said STW's Leah Frost.

Frost said STW needs to maintain contact with members and the public. The group must also raise funds while adhering to COVID social distancing rules.

“We can’t do shows to the bigger audiences we were used to,” she said.

“Why not a drive-in?” said Frost. “We have a big parking lot, let’s do something.”

Those attending will be asked to stay in their cars, but servers will come to the windows and ask if they’d like some refreshments. Popcorn is $1, while a soda, hotdog or chocolate bar is $2 each. 

Admission is by donation.

STW has an FM transmitter so you can tune in to get the audio.

A similar drive-in event was held a few weeks ago, but Frost said a lack of advertising and technical glitches were a problem. 

She hopes this weekend’s COVID-safe event will attract people itching to get out of the house.

The drive-in isn’t the only idea STW has to get through the COVID situation.

They have been renting out space in the theatre and there will be some upcoming events.

On Sept. 25 and 26, STW is hosting an evening with author George Houston who will be reading from his book The Deliverance of Maria. There will be a question and answer period, light refreshments and a book signing. Singer and STW actor, Taylor Emlaw, will also provide entertainment.

Tickets are $10 and the seating is limited to 25 people each night.

Putting on future shows during COVID is possible with some juggling. 

Instead of a normal run which may last a week, the performances could be extended over time by adding more showings with fewer people in attendance in compliance with regulations.

STW is also looking at the possibility of livestreaming performances.

“It’s not that difficult a process,” said Frost.

Perhaps the most important strategy STW has is listening.

Frost said she wants to hear from the public about what they want.

“We do want them to know we are still here and we are still trying to pump out arts and theatre for you.”

EDITOR'S NOTE: This story has been edited to attribute quotes to Leah Frost, and not Randi Houston Jones