Arts Club Theatre production "Billy Bishop Goes to War" comes to Malaspina

The great Canadian classic, Billy Bishop Goes to War, comes to Malaspina University-College theatre in Nanaimo March 16 and 17.

The Arts Club Theatre presentation is a two-man tour de force that requires the lead actor (David Marr) to portray as many as 18 different characters, singing songs from the World War I era to popular musical theatre tunes. The show features Malaspina faculty member Bill Costin as the pianist.

"This show is absolutely brilliant," said producer Tony Bancroft, head of the Malaspina Theatre department. "Billy Bishop is a wonderful story about a true Canadian hero. I guarantee patrons will leave the theatre with tears in their eyes."

Written and composed by John McLachlan Gray in collaboration with Eric Peterson, Billy Bishop is based on the life of a Canadian World War I flying ace. The story focuses on how Billy bumbles his way from military school into the Royal Flying Corps, unexpectedly becoming the most decorated RFC officer of the Great War.

"David Marr, one of the finest professional actors in Canada, is superb in this role," added Bancroft. Marr is well known to local audiences for his lead roles in Malaspina theatre productions over the past 15 years, including Hotel Freedom, City of Angels and most recently Titanic, The Musical. Marr has also performed locally for Theatre One.

Bill Costin is also well known to Nanaimo theatre patrons, having served as the musical director for Malaspina theatre productions for 10 years.

Billy Bishop Goes to War premiered in Vancouver in November, 1978 and has played all over the world, including Broadway.

"I've seen four different productions of Billy Bishop and this particular show is by far the best," said Bancroft.

Billy Bishop is the last show Bancroft will produce for Malaspina. He retires in April after 28 years at the helm of the theatre department.

Evening shows for Billy Bishop Goes to War are March 16 and 17, 8 p.m. at the Malaspina University-College Theatre, 900 Fifth Street, Nanaimo. A matinee showing takes place March 17 at 12:30 p.m. The theatre is wheelchair accessible. Tickets are $21 for adults and $19 for students and seniors. For reservations call 740-6100.