Writer debuts new play at Blackhorse

Playwight L.E. Hines (front row left) and director Deb Robertson (back row centre) with cast members of The Trouble With Richard, which will be making its premiere stage debut at the Blackhorse Theatre Jan. 16.

Blackhorse Village Players (BVP) will debut a new comedy, The Trouble with Richard, by L.E. Hines this month.

Hines was born in Southampton, Ontario, grew up in Chesley, and went to high school in Walkerton. As a kid, he made up stories to amuse his younger brother.

"I've always had an active imagination, and have a multitude of stories in the works at any given time," he said. "I write things that I find interesting. I think it's the only way to come up with good stories. One of my biggest thrills is laughter from an appreciative audience."

Hines' interest in theatre began in high school, where he and a friend wrote a threeact comedy, The Private Eye, which was well received. He auditioned for and was accepted at Ryerson School of Theatre, but lacking finances he never went. Instead, he went to work, and continued to write stories. His introduction to community theatre ultimately brought him to Blackhorse, where he has appeared in a number of productions.

"I found a kinship I never realized I was missing, and a community I wanted to be a part of," he commented. "I began to imagine a few stories that I thought would make good plays. The Trouble With Richard was the one I selected as my first to complete, since I thought it would translate to the BVP stage. Blackhorse is where I wanted to debut my first solo work."

Hines' career currently has him living and working quite a distance away. His growing artistic reputation and many friends in the Blackhorse community keep him traveling to BVP. This involvement brings him a tremendous sense of satisfaction.

The Trouble with Richard opens Jan. 16 and runs through to Feb. 2. For tickets, call the box office at (905) 880-5002.

The Blackhorse Theatre is at 17272 Mount Wolfe Rd.