New West Theatre’s “Hootenanny” returns to Galt Gardens this month.
This annual theatre for young audiences will feature “Scout and the Rarest Badge Ever,” written and directed by Ahona Sanyal.
“Hootenanny” was always designed to be a platform for emerging artists, says Artistic Director Kelly Reay. “Those individuals who are in the early stages of a career.”
“Ahona is a good example of someone who started as an actor. The next year she became assistant director and the year after that she became the writer and director. It was kind of always designed to be that stepping stone platform for these young, talented artists and give them their opportunity,” adds Reay.
Designer Autumn Adrian, Reay notes, is also an emerging artist. “Who recently graduated from the University of Lethbridge. She created all the puppets.”
According to Reay, 2024 marks the third year New West has presented “Hootenanny.”
“The project has existed for about six years. It was a slow build-up at first, but now I feel the community has embraced it. We regularly get 40 or 50 people to performances. Young families, children and sometimes people with no children. Just folks interested in coming to check out some outdoor theatre,” says Reay.
People, Reay adds, seem to also value being able to visit Galt Gardens to activate it in a positive way.
The production is free to attend and runs until July 26 from Tuesday to Friday at 10:30 a.m. in the northwest corner of Galt Gardens, weather permitting.
