Tempting Providence
by Robert Chafe
Little Dipper Theatre Co.
Swallowfield Barn, Langley
The Great War is over, but Myra Bennett will not slow down. She has left England on a temporary assignment as the lone nurse to nearly 500km of rural coastline in Newfoundland’s Great Northern Peninsula. Determined to leave her mark, Myra must brave the culture shock and decide whether she will allow the feisty locals to leave their mark on her as well. Soon, matters of the heart mix with matters of business, and her temporary contract threatens to become anything but! Could Newfoundland be where Myra belongs? And how will she know? Based on a true story, this Canadian gem has wowed audiences around the world with its poetry, emotion and celebration of community and resilience.
Directed by Nicola Shannon, Stage Management by Jessica Enns-Lear, Assistant Direction, Choreography and Intimacy Coordination by Vanessa Lazare, Assistant Stage Management by Marta Nagy, Set and Props Design by Cath de la Rambelje; Costume Design by Lucy Sharples; Lighting Design by Alex House and Melissa House; Sound Design by Josh Osborne; Publicity photos by Dianna Lewis, Archival photos by Dianna Lewis and Jordan Ravensbergen
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Sometimes when we make a big life change, we are left questioning if we made the right decision. Are we on the right path? How do we know? Are things “meant to be” or are there multiple perfectly acceptable life paths available to us? People often find great comfort in either one of these views.
The ability to make choices is a great gift but can also be a great burden. The lives we have built for ourselves are the products of many choices, both large and small, which can sometimes be an overwhelming thought. I enjoy journeying with Myra as she struggles with her own choices, and I hope her wrestling with herself and her “fate” gives you a fresh perspective on your own life.
This play is based on a true story. Myra Bennett’s accomplishments and impact are numerous and enormous. I will refrain from listing them here in order to avoid spoiling the ending of our story, but encourage you to research her for yourself!
We honour Myra Bennett and others like her who have helped build our communities and our nation. May we find the courage we need to make bold choices for ourselves and embrace the life and relationships that result with open arms.