Those familiar with playwright Dan Needles’ hilarious Wingfield series may be less than enthused to hear his latest work is billed as a “drama.”
But truth be told, audiences need not fear the ‘D’ word when it comes to The Team on the Hill, which is now enjoying its world premiere at Theatre Orangeville.
Though seemingly a stark departure for Needles, when it comes to heart, a compelling story and remarkable character development, The Team on the Hill transcends the comedy series for which the writer is best known. And as an added bonus, it still contains some of the witty rural life commentary on which Needles has built his reputation.
The story is likely a familiar one for many living in rural Wellington County.
Three generations of the Ransier family, faced with dwindling profit margins and the growing influence of huge farming conglomerates, among other challenges, are at odds over the fate of the family farm.
Ray Ransier (played by Jonathan Whittaker), having struggled for decades on the land with his wife Marion (Deborah Tennant), considers selling the farm to a developer who plans to turn it into a golf course.
But his father Austin (Mairtin O’Carrigan) and his recently-graduated son Larry (Brandon Crone) are intent on keeping the farm in the family. The close relationship between Austin and Larry and his girlfriend Leanne (Perrie Olthuis), which further upsets Ray, is truly the backbone to the story.
All five actors are remarkable in their respective roles. Indeed, as a few audience members pointed out during a “talk back” session on May 9, the casting is absolutely perfect.
The set design by Sarah Scroggie is simple yet ingenious and the script by Needles is extraordinary.
Those familiar with agriculture will undoubtedly feel an instant connection to the story and the characters, but in no way do you have to be a farmer to get it.
As director David Nairn explained after the May 9 performance, there may be a farming “milieu,” but this story, which is remarkably heartfelt and sincere, is really about families – in particular fathers and sons.
One could almost hear the groans from the audience when Needles hinted last week the Wingfield series may have seen its last stage, but if future efforts from the playwright are as good as The Team on the Hill, the future seems very bright.
The Team on the Hill plays five shows a week until May 26. For tickets call 519-942-3423 or 1-800-424-1295 or visit theatreorangeville.ca.
