‘Beautiful to see’: Montreal’s I Can Dream Theatre is back
Posted February 2, 2024 9:33 am.
Last Updated February 2, 2024 8:38 pm.
The magic of the I Can Dream Theatre began in 2011.
It grew from being a program at Summit School – a school for the neurodiverse – to reaching thousands of audience members through the years.
Now, the non-profit is preparing for its big return to the stage in February — their first show back since the pandemic halted cast and crew from coming together.
“The Godfather’s Wonderful Life,” the title of their new production.
“We’re all doing a really good job,” said Joseph Hunt, actor with the theatre group. “It’s hard to remember a lot of stuff without a script.”
“It’s obviously impressive that we’re able to do what we can do.”
The non-profit’s primary purpose: to provide the development for neurodiverse adults in the performing arts, specifically through acting, singing and dancing.
“It’s so incredible to watch the growth and the development of each of our cast members as individuals,” said Tricia Bartley, co-founder and assistant director of the I Can Dream Theatre.
“How they can come together,” she added. “And bring something so beautiful together, and be so comfortable with who they are.”
Hunt – a part of the cast since 2018.
His role in this production — inspired by the character Clarence Odbody, a guardian angel in the 1946 classic, It’s a Wonderful Life.
“I get to do things that I wouldn’t normally do,” said Hunt. “I’m not an angel in real life, my mom might think I am.”
“It’s a lot of fun,” said Shannon Davis, actress at the I Can Dream Theatre. “It’s such a great experience.”
“It’s fun doing it with my friends,” she added. “It’s just crazy.”
“I’m extremely proud,” said Bartley, with tears in her eyes. “I’m proud of this organization.”
“I’m proud of every single cast member, volunteer.”
Get ready for laughs, tears, songs and dances Montreal.
Tickets are available online for their 7:30 p.m. shows on Feb. 9 and 10 at NDG’s Eric J. Maclean S.J. Center For Performing Arts.
“When I was younger,” said Hunt. “I used to stutter almost a lot.”
“I’m doing a lot better.”
“20 years ago,” he added. “I don’t think I could have done this.”
