Evalyn Parry, director of the upcoming production of Arsenic and Old Lace at Regina's Globe Theatre, acknowledges that the classic comedy is unlikely to spark the same level of controversy as the theatre's previous show, Little Red Warrior and His Lawyer. However, she says the recent backlash has energized her team rather than dampened spirits.
A Season of Contrasts
The Globe Theatre is concluding its season with Arsenic and Old Lace, a beloved farce about two elderly sisters who poison lonely old men. The play runs from June 5 to June 28. It follows the contentious staging of Little Red Warrior and His Lawyer, which drew criticism for its sexual content, including a pole-dancing scene, leading to a group of students walking out during a May 6 performance. The theatre even hired police presence for subsequent shows.
Despite the turmoil, Parry insists the experience has been invigorating. “It gives me so much respect for actors to watch those actors in the last show continue to perform to full houses and make such beautiful performances in the face of some controversy,” she said during a media preview on Thursday. “I feel like it’s given that same kind of energy to our cast to do the amazing thing that actors do, which is go on stage and be vulnerable for an audience.”
Policy Changes for School Groups
Heather Ervin, Globe Theatre’s director of engagement, announced that the controversy has prompted a policy change for school groups attending future shows. “Every school would be required to sign a waiver that they’ve read the script, that they understand the content of each of the productions,” Ervin explained. She emphasized that safety and actor security remain priorities, though no major changes have been implemented for Arsenic and Old Lace.
Ervin also addressed whether the incident would influence future programming. While Globe plans its lineup years in advance—currently working on the 2027-2028 season—she made clear the theatre’s stance on censorship. “Censorship in the arts is definitely not something that we’re interested in,” she said. “It’s been an exciting time in the city to see how audiences react and support the theatre and what’s important to them, and people are standing up by showing up.”
Looking Ahead
Arsenic and Old Lace promises a lighter tone, offering audiences a chance to enjoy classic theatre without the intensity of recent debates. Parry’s cast is eager to perform, and the director believes the community’s support will make the production a success. The play runs through June 28 at the Globe Theatre in Regina.
