The Sankofa Trilogy

Blood Claat is the first part of the trilogy, and certainly made me feel I should see the other two parts. Unfortunately, I will not be able to do so this time around.
D'bi.young Anitafrika is the writer and performer and does a fabuous job of both. The range of parts she plays in this one woman show is astonishing, as is the way in which she manages to make each character distinct and recognisable, not just by changing her voice, but by changing her posture, her movement and in effect her whole persona. It was absolutely wonderful to watch. Stamp, turn and the young teenager becomes her grandmother. Swirl and become the auntie. Jump into the boyfriend. Lurch into the uncle. Fast and flawless.
The stage design was terrific - a series of ropes that were at various times a tree, a house, a room. Stark and simple as I am coming to expect from Camellia Koo.

Ghosts

Soulpepper excells at moody plays, so Ibsen is right up their alley. This production of Ghosts is no exception - it was just excellent. The acting and direction made sure that the dialogue and plot were clear. Nothing prevented you from hearing and paying attention to every word. the costumes, set and lighting provided the mood.
Nancy Palk was superb as Mrs Alving; Diego Matamoros and Joseph Zeigler were equally good.
This was a Morris Panych adaptation, so I must give him some credit, too.

Love lies bleeding

A new ballet from the Alberta Ballet company, with music by Elton John and BernienTaupin. This is a great production to introduce a new generation to ballet but is not likely to become part of the classic repertoire. It was flashy and colorful, as expected. The principal dancer was fantastic. There was a beautiful romantic pas de deux performed by two men - not a usual thing in classical ballet.

Private Lives

Paul Gross at Elyot? what could be better? Unfortunately, he was sick and the understudy played the part. He was very good - smooth, sophisticated and line perfect. Gareth clarke is his name, and he is generally a London, west end actor. Worth looking out for when we are nextt in England.
Kim Cattrall was very good as Amanda as were Anna Madeley as Sybil and Simon Paisley Day as Victor. the latter two are also west end actors.
But I wanted to see Paul Gross, since the play is certainly dated and definitely "fluff", so the evening was a ibt of a disappointment.