Blackhorse takes The Dover Road to success
By Anne Ritchie

A distinguished butler greets the couple seeking shelter and more so, a change in their future when they travel The Dover Road, Blackhorse Village Players' finale of the theatre season.

They have saved the best for last: it includes memorable actors, fine and favorite talents in a most interesting setting with surprising events. For haven't we all found ourselves on a quest at some time or other, without quite knowing what will come of it, and been glad when it turned out other than we'd planned?

The stage setting containing the talents of The Dover Road is a work of art: with entry halls, dining and sitting area; it's as versatile as the characters that reside therein. Dominic the butler, keeping everything, (and everyone) in order, for he knows all is not as it seems. John Milne, one of the most beloved and memorable talents that graced the stage, plays the role with dignity, decorum and a smile that says he knows there is more than what meets the eye in store for the guests.

The servants, played by Lisa Casagrande, Kierston Drier, David Lightwood and Mark Rogowski, offer silent and proper respect befitting the manor and the future of its guests.

Mr. Latimer, owner and master in the grand scheme, (Peter Shipston) seems quite nice to some of his impetuous guests. Indeed, with a grin that fairly overflows the room, he is a powerful force to be reckoned with, and his guests who thought they were there accidentally will soon reckon otherwise. His considerable charm overwhelms the slightest protest as he puts everything, and everyone, in their place. Shipston rose to the heights as a celestial visitor in Greetings years ago.

His talents shine again in The Dover Road.

The slightest protest offered Mr. Latimer came from the gushing Eustasia. Though two couples arrived, in turn, through alleged accident, Eustasia took to the home like a mother hen to chicks.

Annette Derraugh plays Eustasia like a Queen Mother hen, intent on curing every discomfort, pain, and suspect illness in sight. She flutters and hovers, clucking sympathy with intense compassion 'till the audience is helpless in laughter.

Watching Nicholas and Leonard duck Derraugh's ministrations is a scene not to be missed.

Protests also came from Leonard, Eustasia's husband. Leonard never quite seems to know what's happening, or why, and it's the perfect role for the chosen actor. Considering Greg Cebelak can act with his face and demeanor as expressively as his voice, his indignation, helplessness, bewilderment, and hopelessness met with triple the laughter from the audience.

As much as Leonard protests, Anne (Kim Slesarczyk) calms. Slesarczyk finds voice in a character who is at once worldly and naive, innocent and honest. Slesarcyck evokes strength and serenity in a role that balances the flutters of Eustasia, Leonard's stuffiness, and the sophisticated Mr. Latimer.

Anne's closest match is Nicholas (Larry Hines), caught in the undertow of impulsive emotions. Attracted to Eustasia, then to Anne, and then to a decidedly different future, Hines convincingly gives us a character who is true blue to his ideals, until those ideals change.

With such a complexity of characters and plot, director Ann Smith and producer Chandra Mulder have created a masterpiece, thoroughly enjoyable, much appreciated, and a wonderful contribution to Blackhorse Village Players season. They have truly saved the best for last. Find out for yourself by calling the box office at 905- 880-5002 for ticket information.