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Anne of Green Gables - Classic Theatre

Anne of Green Gables - Classic Theatre

Youth Theatreworks is a brand new Auckland theatre trust for young people that is about to take to the stage with a timeless and heart warming classic.

Its inaugural production of the play Anne of Green Gables captures the charm and excitement of L.M. Montgomery's enduring tale about a red haired and spirited orphan girl, Anne Shirley,

Anne of Green Gables is set in Canada in 1908 and tells the story of Anne’s misadventures, from her first encounter with her austere guardian to her thrilling graduation at the Queen's Academy.

All the tragedies and triumphs that mark Anne's growth from adolescence to early adulthood are here: her friendship with Diana, her feuds with Gilbert, her adoration of Matthew, the mistaken wine bottle, the cake disaster, the broken leg, the scholastic achievements, and the saving of Green Gables.
The original book is dramatised by Joseph Robinette and faithfully recreates the memorable events and characters from the novel that sold more than 50 million books.
Canadian author, Lucy Maud Montgomery, found her inspiration for the book on an old piece of paper that she had written at a young age, describing a couple that were mistakenly sent an orphan girl instead of a boy, yet decided to keep her.
She also drew upon her own childhood experiences in rural Prince Edward Island in Canada.
The quaint, white painted, green shuttered, turn-of-the century house nestled in the lush fields of Prince Edward Island is the life-long home of unmarried brother and sister Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert.

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Anne, a disadvantaged child, arrives at this simple house, furnished with only the bare essentials. She has no-one in the world to care for her and the charming Green Gables and its spinster couple loom like a refuge on a far-away cloud.

Anne of Green Gables is directed by highly respected Auckland actor, stage director and acting coach, Jan Saussey.

“Green Gables speaks volumes about the importance of home and strong relationships,” says Jan. “This special place signifies security, family and a sense of community for Anne. All of the essentials that bind humans together in happiness. It’s wonderful! ”.


Jan Saussey is passionate about theatre for young people and is very excited about the newly formed trust, Youth Theatreworks, which she says is simply about bringing to the stage classic tales, for young actors and audiences to appreciate and enjoy.

“There is a bountiful supply of enduring stories, whether from 50 or 500 years ago, and these fables, histories, and legends, are timeless through all generations.” says Jan. “They provide a rich tapestry of characters, often with noble heroes and heroines, and storylines that carry us to times gone by”.

Jan is inspired by the excitement of the cast in Anne of Green Gables.

“I am amazed just how many teenage fans of L.M Montgomery there are,” she says. “One girl had read all 8 sequels, and many auditioning had a favourite “Anne” story.”

The play has a 30-strong cast of talented young people from throughout Auckland who are devoting their entire school holidays to the full 12-day workshop as they prepare for the Gala Opening Night and 5 performances.
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Anne of Green Gables is on at the Raye Freedman Arts Centre at the end of the school holidays on October 8,9,10.

Book through www.iticket.co.nz or click on the link below

http://www.iticket.co.nz/events/2009/oct/anne%2Dof%2Dgreen%2Dgables/

Shows & Pricing:
Thursday 8 October - Gala Night 6:30pm - Adults$35 & Children$20
Friday & Saturday - 2:30pm & 7:30pm - Adults$25, Students/Seniors/$20,
Children (5-12 years)/$15


ENDS

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