Media release: Montreal, August 15, 2006.

The play William & James was presented 32 times during the Divers/Cité celebrations receiving very high critical praise from all of those attending the production either in the world premiere of French version by Genevieve St-Jean or the original version in English by Robert Tsonos. Many of the theatre goers loved the play so much that they came to enjoy it twice; some in both languages and some in the same language the very same day.

“I’ve never seen such a response for a play; ever.” Says Davyn Ryall, producer. “It appeals to a very broad audience demographic… both women and men equally laughed and then shed tears… it was fascinating to witness from the back of the room as the second to last scene unfolds, audience members arms gravitating towards the shoulders of their partners in the seat next to them to put their arms around them; clearly identifying the couples in the room.”

Not to be overshadowed by the great reviews the play received in the original Toronto production 3 years ago, our local critics came out in force to support the play with their own great reviews.

(Marie-Andrée Parent: Prémiere Delires - CKUT Radio McGill 90.3FM.) “I enjoyed the French premiere so much that I went back  the same evening to see the English version. Both plays are equally enjoyable to see. Two times Bravo!”

(Francine Grimaldi: Radio Canada – En attendant Le Bigot.) “The beautiful quality of the language is a pleasure to listen to; Robert Tsonos of Montreal is a real discovery... The brilliant minimalist direction of Davyn Ryall placing the emphasis on the intimacy of the play that we feel like voyeurs we are so close and involved with the actors. Christian Bugden in the role of the rich British aristocrat James, is another great new discovery… playing magnificently with admirable natural elegance and his generous subtitle nuance of the role.”

If you missed it or for those who want to see it again William & James will be reproduced during Harvest - The Montréal International G.L.B.T. Theatre Festival at the end of September at Hotel Taj Mahal. See program schedule for dates and times.

Production photos are on the web site. If you require highresolution dpi images they are also available on request.

Contact:
Village Scene Productions
Davyn Ryall
davyn@villagescene.com
450 550-7782

Village Scene Productions,
P.O. Box 142, Stn. C,
Montreal, Qc.
H2L 2H0