By Vern Thiessen

Theatre on the Ridge

July 2025

After stepping away from Theatre by the Bay, I was fortunate to be approached by a good friend, and Artistic Director of Theatre on the Ridge in Port Perry, Carey Nicholson. She was keen to collaborate after many years of supporting each other’s work from afar.

Over a lunch, lots of ideas were thrown around and the subject came up of how great Vern Thiessen’s work is. Theatre on the Ridge had presented Vimy many years ago and, of course, I had commissioned and directed Icemen in 2023. 

After a little time, I suggested directing Bluebirds. Knowing the general hiring ages of the company, the fact that it was 90 mins and three actors, and it is a fabulous script, it felt like a perfect fit. Carey agreed and we were off! 

During that lunch visit, Carey graciously drove me around to all the sites, including the Scugog Museum where the show will be held. It is a great little site - nestled next to old trees and historic buildings. I have loved working outside in the past, but this feels particularly poignant and exciting. Plus, it facilitates the show working in the round, which is my favourite way to work. 

Plus, it feels very full-circle that I started my true professional career in Port Perry with R&J  in 2015, and now, I am back, a different person and director. 

It is early days, but I see it as a very physical play with as much of the music and other elements performed live by the three actors as possible. It should be quite evocative. And for those in the audience that saw my work in the Old Flame Brewery back in the day, should capture the feeling of the ensemble-y, ‘nothing hidden from the audience’ shows I presented there. 

It should be very special and definitely worth the trip!

More information available HERE