Saskatoon Gateway Players Rehearsed David and Lisa Play in 1980
On this day in 1980, the Saskatoon Gateway Players were deep in rehearsal for their upcoming production of David and Lisa. This archival moment, curated by the City of Saskatoon Archives and featured in the StarPhoenix, captures a significant point in local theater history.
Archival Image Reveals Cast in Action
The photograph from January 22, 1980, shows actors Dawnie Scarfe, Ross Mickelson, Colleen Kells, and John Senior actively rehearsing. This visual record provides a fascinating glimpse into the preparation behind the third production of the Gateway Players' season.
Production Details and Performance Schedule
David and Lisa by James Reach was scheduled to run from Wednesday through Saturday at 8 p.m. in the Aden Bowman Castle Theatre. The play tells the compelling story of two schizophrenic teenagers who meet in a residential treatment center and develop a transformative relationship.
Character Portrayals and Cast Challenges
Ross Mickelson portrayed David Clemens, a highly intelligent character who cannot bear physical touch and is obsessed with neatness and logic. Colleen Kells played Lisa Brent, whose charm helped David gradually overcome his psychological barriers. Veteran director Robert Hinitt faced the considerable challenge of managing a large cast of 22 actors and 51 scenes spread across various locations.
Directorial Approach and Technical Solutions
Director Robert Hinitt initially expressed reservations about the project, noting it was "chosen for me while I was in hospital" and wasn't his typical style of play. However, he grew to appreciate the work and devised innovative technical solutions. "We've built eight platforms for the action to move across," Hinitt explained, "and the scene shifts are all done with the lighting to make it flow."
Professional Guidance and Supporting Cast
The production benefited from professional psychological insights provided by Barry Mickelson, a psychologist in Calgary and brother of actor Ross Mickelson. The cast also studied Lisa and David by Dr. Theodore Isaac Rubin, the original case study that inspired both the stage play and screenplay. Supporting cast members included Walter Mills, Wendell Owen, Winston Jarrett, and several others, with over half making their Gateway stage debut.
This historical rehearsal moment represents an important chapter in Saskatoon's cultural heritage, showcasing the dedication and creativity of local theater artists during the 1980 season.
