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2 Friday, June 30, 2016 www.brooklintowncrier.com Brooklin Takes Centre Stage - Godspell By Cady Dreger As summer commences, there is no better time than now to go out and support local theatre - and no better show than Godspell! This timeless musical is brought to you by Cadenza Productions, a company formed in 2004 by music director Carol Salamone that performs a new show every summer. They perform exclusively at Town Hall 1873 - Centre for the Performing Arts located in Port Perry. Their mission is simple: to engage and transport audiences to keep them coming back for more, and to help increase tourism in the lovely Township of Scugog. Among the many talented cast members is fellow Brooklin native, Liam Lynch, who has taken on the role of Jesus. Liam, who made his theatre debut nearly seven years ago (under the direction of Carey Nicholson, the director of Godspell), has now completed his second year of Sheridan College's Bachelor of Musical Theatre Performance - one of the most prestigious theatre programs in Canada. He claims that he comes from "a very creative, imaginative family (who) always had a big tickle trunk full of costumes on hand" which inspired him to write and perform his own plays with his younger brother, Kieran, from the comfort of their backyard. As for turning his passion into a career, Liam says: "I remember doing a show when I was about 17, and we were singing the final number. I remember being onstage as an ensemble, and, before the last note even came out of our mouths, the crowd jumped to its feet and the entire theatre gave the cast a standing-ovation. I can remember that moment really clearly because I'm pretty sure I booked my audition for school the next day." Above all, Liam is thankful for his "super supportive parents who were totally behind (him) chasing (his) dreams!" As for the show itself, Godspell highlights parables from the gospel according to Matthew through energetic song and dance. In the words of Liam, "Godspell is a beautiful, open show. It's a show with religious components. However, it is written with universal truths. All the lessons, morals, and teachings are genuinely human, and can be accepted by any member of any faith (or lack thereof)." While the show was written in the 1970s, director Carey Nicholson has decided to modernize the show in order to make it more accessible to audiences today. Attendees are sure to leave the theatre with composer Stephen Schwartz's beautiful melodies stuck in their heads and the passion of the performers engraved on their hearts. For anyone beginning in community theatre, young or old, Liam has but one piece of advice: "Take time to remember just how much you enjoy it. Everyone enters theatre through different circumstances, but everyone enters with a united passion. You have to remind yourself that you're doing it to tell stories, share messages, and incite change! Don't let nerves or self-doubt affect an experience. Do what you love doing and, most importantly, share that love with others!" Godspell runs from July 6 to 9 with four evening shows and one matinee. Tickets may be purchased at the door or at the Town Hall website (www.townhall1873.ca). Editor's Note: Cady Dreger is a Grade 11 student in the Performing Arts Program at O'Neill C.V.I. Her love of theatre is infectious, and we're de- lighted to share her thoughts about the offerings of local theatre companies with our readers. Residents Warned of Fox Sightings in Whitby The Town of Whitby is advising residents of sightings of foxes in north Whitby. Foxes are common in this area, and there are a num- ber of precautions people can take to minimize conflict with these animals. The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry suggests that anyone who sees a fox should keep their distance. The animal will most likely humans. If you encounter an aggressive fox: never approach or touch the animal do not turn your back or run from the animal back away from the animal while remaining calm stand tall, wave your hands, and make lots of noise carry a flashlight at night and, if a wild animal poses an immediate threat or danger to public safety, call 911 In addition to the above, residents are encouraged to minimize food sources on their properties. Foxes are fond of fruits, vegetables, eggs, berries, seeds, and dog and cat food. Enclose food compost in secure, animal-resistant containers. Ensure bird feeders are out of reach of foxes and clean up spilled bird seed on a regular basis. Foxes are omnivores. In addition to fruits and vegetables, they eat small animals such as mice and rabbits. To prevent conflict with pets, keep cats and dogs on a leash when outdoors. More information is available online from the Ministry of Natural Resources. Residents with questions can also contact Whitby Animal Services by phone at 905.655.0283 or via email at paw@whitby.ca.