Real Living Winter 2024

Capturing Local History through One-Act Plays On April 19th and 20th, the Keystone Complex in Shedden will once again host a premier of a new and captivating piece of historical fiction, SNAPSHOTS: One Act Plays about WW2 & the RCAF Station Fingal. Snapshots is a collection of formal short plays penned by local writer, Len Cuthbert. With a unique focus on World War Two and the RCAF Station Fingal, this production brings history to life and celebrates the 100th anniversary since April 1, 1924, of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). “They’re tied to either World War Two or Fingal,” Len explains. “We started out with the idea of writing a book about the Bombing and Gunnery school N0. 4 in Fingal, so it is very local.” The production aims to shed light on the experiences of local veterans who trained or worked at the RCAF Bombing and Gunnery School in Fingal during WW2, providing a glimpse into their unexpected adventures. The cast members include Fynn Cuthbert (Actor, Singer, Musician, Composer), Haley Kriz (Actor, Singer), and Brittany Miranda (Actor, Singer), who bring these stories to life. Fynn Cuthbert contributes to the unique aspect of the play by incorporating an original song titled “The Other Side,” which encapsulates the lives of three RCAF veterans. The four plays in SNAPSHOTS offer diverse narratives, each bringing a different perspective on the historical events including the RCAF and Station Fingal. They are: Aces Don’t Lie : This play promises to take the audience on a journey through the challenges and triumphs faced by several local veterans who trained or worked at the RCAF Bombing and Gunnery School in Fingal during WW2. Last Dance : Two youths discover each other during a last dance. Originally staged in 2017 at the InspiraTO Festival in Toronto, Last Dance has found a new home in Len Cuthbert’s collection of short plays, Reunited Shorts published by Dramatic Publishing in 2020. Life is the Train, Not the Station Two people from different generations ride the VIA and discover their unique connection to the Fingal Bombing and Gunnery School. This play explores the enduring impact of historical events on individuals across time. Stolperstein : Two distinctive girls uncover their parallel lives. Originally staged at the Stillwater Short Play Festival in Oklahoma2, Stolperstein won the People’s Choice Award.

SNAPSHOTS not only serves as a poignant reflection on the local history of Fingal but also as a tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of the RCAF veterans. As the production takes the stage, it invites the audience to step back in time and appreciate the rich tapestry of stories woven into the fabric of their community. Len Cuthbert’s creation is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling in preserving the legacy of those who came before us. The show will be performed at 2 pm and 7 pm at the Keystone Complex (35921 Talbot Line, Shedden) on the 19th and 20th before moving on to the Wright Family Performing Arts & Entertainment Centre (13 Front Street West, Strathroy) for two shows on April 21st. To purchase tickets go to the Township Office (35663 Fingal Line, Fingal) or online at www.onstagedirect.com.

www.salusmutual.ca 866.931.2809

Page 8 Real Living • Winter 2024

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