The Last Romance mixes humour, heartbreak and opera
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Coming off a multi-award-winning season in 2022-23 and receiving recognition from the Western Ontario Drama League, Theatre Tillsonburg begins its 2023-24 season this week.
The Last Romance by Joe DiPietro mixes humour, heartbreak, and opera, offering a glimpse into golden age romance and a commentary on the importance of companionship and connection. Director Karen Tripp and Producer Craig Covey use their considerable years of experience and lifelong love of the theatre to bring this play to the Tillsonburg stage at the Otter Valley Playhouse on Potters Road, Nov. 2-5 and Nov. 9-12.
Building on many years of acting experience, Pete Matthews offers a warm portrayal of a lovable, gregarious Ralph Bellini who stumbles upon love when looking for nothing more than a different route home.
Tina Hurley debuted in Stag and Doe last spring. Acting in The Last Romance, she presents a woman searching for purpose in the eyes of a furry companion but, in the course of a regular day at the park, she stumbles upon something much more.
In the course of a growing friendship, Ralph looks back at his life and the missed opportunities of his younger self, portrayed in a poignant vocal display by Rendall Lackenbauer, a local Glendale High School student.
New to the Tillsonburg stage, Rendall comes from the STAGES youth musical theatre program in Woodstock. His musical talents underscore the emotional evolution of the characters throughout the play with touching sentiment.
Firmly in Ralph’s present is his sister Rose, who has spent her life “taking care of men.” Full of purpose, she has no room for romantic nonsense. Angela Carvalho, a frequent player on the Tillsonburg stage last season, brings to life a strong woman grappling with her own challenges and insecurities.
Looking ahead in the 2023-24 season, Nunsense is coming to the stage Feb. 8-11 and Feb. 15-18, 2024, followed by Gloria’s Guy on May 2-5 and May 9-12, 2024.
There’s still time to get your tickets for The Last Romance, and season subscribers can purchase tickets for all three of this season’s productions. Tickets can be purchased from the box office at 519-688-3026 or online at https://www.theatretillsonburg.com/ .
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