by Lorraine Payette, written October 20, 2013
(GANANOQUE, ONTARIO) Jacob Mercer is about ready to admit he’s a fool. Maybe a bit of a heel, a jerk, perhaps even a rogue. But he’s returned to Coley’s Point, Newfoundland, after a whole year away to win back the love of his life and start over in perfect, newfound happiness. At 18 he’s a new man, mature, and ready for anything.
Mary Snow, however, has other plans in mind. She, too, has had a whole year to grow and think. And she thinks she’d really prefer marrying Jerome McKenzie, a rich man’s son and Jacob’s nemesis. After all, he’s reliable, he’s predictable, the future will be so secure with him….
But when the two start sparking under that Salt-Water Moon, surprises are in store for all concerned.
A sweet play about young love, the story takes place in 1926. These were uncertain times in many ways, and the world was quite different from the way we see it today. Men and women had distinct roles, and a family’s entire fortune could change with the death or absence of even a single key member. Not only does it take us through the love of these two characters – the humour, the tears, the frustrations and triumphs – but it also gives us a glimpse of the times themselves. From Mary’s courage in taking on work as a housekeeper while trying to help her sister (who is confined to an orphanage) to Jacob’s need to go far afield to seek work, only to return home once again to the life he’d always known, the details pull things together and we see life as it was.
Set and costumes, accompanied by excellent lighting and sound, contribute greatly to the performances. Edward Charette and Shannon Taylor work well together as Jacob and Mary, and the set adds tremendously to the believability of the show. Amazingly three-dimensional, we almost expect Mary to ascend stairs and call down to him from a second story window.
Ashlie Corcoran has done an admirable job directing this piece. With only two characters to work with, it remains alive and interesting from beginning to end. As the final show in the Playhouse’s 2013 season, it comes off both strong and sweet, a perfect way to finish up a stellar year.
“Salt-Water Moon” will be running at the Springer Theatre in Gananoque for its final two weeks, ending on November 2. Show times are Tuesday through Saturday 8:00 pm, with matinees Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday at 2:30 pm (starting the Wednesday after opening night). Tickets are $32 for adults, $30 for seniors age 65+, $16 for students (HST will be added to all prices). Group tickets are available at $26 – $28 each including GST.
For more information or to buy tickets, please go to http://www.1000islandsplayhouse.com or contact the box office at 613-382-7020.
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