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Huron Expositor, 2009-07-08, Page 254,01.6 L, oThe Hurons Expositor, A -,July, 8,' 2009 t.Page,25 News Blyth FestivaITheatreS The Bootblack Orator a rvIng celebration' of history of Huron County tmtz Sarah lcDotiald 4 A long time ago, but not very far away at all, John R. Clarke, perhaps better known as The Bootblack Ora- tor, toured Huron County, bringing education and entertainment to resi- dents of the area with the aide of his "magic lantern" projector. At the Blyth Festival Theatre's opening night performance of the play, The Bootblack Orator, inspired by Clarke's illustrated lectures, those fortunate enough to be in the audience got a taste of that long -ago magic. • The Bootblack Orator, penned by Seaforth native Ted Johns, and in- spired by Clarke's travelling lec- tures, offers an engaging and well - researched snapshot of life and the hot topics of the clay as they were in Huron County in the 1800s. The temperance movement, artists, poets, the ominous threat of roller rinks, and something cryptically re- ferred to as "the girl problem," are explored with enough humour and wit to ensure that the history lessons contained aren't too dry. Instead -of the familiar request that patrons turn off their cell phones and avoid crinkling their candy wrappers often heard at the beginning of a the- atrical performance, the audience is immediately whisked back to the 1800s, amid much laughter, when they are asked instead tosurrender any flasks of alcohol to the ushers at the top of the show. Johns, who sports some serious muttonchops to play the title role of Mr. Bootblack, is well matched onstage by Blyth Festival favourite Janet Amos, who takes on the chal- lenge of portFaying the play's four remaining Characters, Mrs. Edith Bootblack, Mary Shelley, Susie Twentycents, and Sarah Heany. Amos' seemingly boundless energy and lively delivery make for an en- grossing performance as she admira- bly handles the transitions back and forth among different characters of varying ages, while Johns' natural storytelling ability makes him a de- light to listen to. As well as sharing and narrating a beautiful array of "slides" featur- ing everything from famed works of art, to views of every type of beetle imaginable, reminiscent of science, class, both Amos and Johns spout an almost constant stream of fascinat- ing references to Huron County, as it was during the time when there were three trains a day through Blyth, and Clinton boasted an impressive total of 30 telephones. They keep the audience chuckling throughout. The lighting, which plays a vital part in bringing the "magic lantern" projector to life, is flawlessly done • and the relative simplicity of both county is evident in his performance, the set and costumes lends itself script and lovingly crafted charac- well as a background for the colour- ters. ful projections. Residents and history buffs alike Johns' enthusiasm for his subject will' find The Bootblack Orator a matter and enjoyment in sharing charming celebration of the history his well -researched knowledge, of the of Huron County, _ and rural Ontario. �ti WtLFi/ 10 iNTEE E. C O L.8 h!/TC30 NROII OR Sharon Medd, Broker 150 Main St., Seaforth 519-527-0560 (0) 519-522-0660 (R) CONTACT US AT: www.mcintee.Ca Sprawling, Quality Finished Home. Dublin. Endless features. Triple lot 4-5 bedrooms, fin. basement. Updates inc. kitch. & bathrm, tile, "hrdwd flooring. Dble car garage, + Sgle detached garage, entry from 2 streets. $289,000 Own far $525 a Month! Seaforth. 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Deck to Ige back yard. $99,000 Trade, Sell, Rent to Buy, . or Vendor Take Back! 6:30-7:30pm, July 9th. 212 Main St, Seaforth. Beautiful young home. Oak kit. 3+ bedrooms, ensuite. Scape wells. 2 car dry -walled garage. Patio doors to deck. Lot: 83'x144'. $279,000 DiSCQUIlt Yiertgap CAM& Good or Bad Credit - We have lenders to suit your needs! CaII today to obtain the mortgage you deserve. Call Vanessa or Sharon at 519-527-0560 r LAND EXCHANGE LTD., BROKERAGE Independently owned and operated 8 Main St., Seaforth (24 HR Paging) www.remaxlandexchange.ca Phone: 519-527-1577 Fax: 519-527-1585 GORGEOUS KITCHEN] .:eryro+ 1 C 127 GODERICHST., SEAFORTH MIs# 091890 $169,900 OPEN HOUSE ii<rgeowesic. 21 LOUISA ST. SEAFORTH MLSIt090674 $101,900 SAT. 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