NORTH BAY—After a two-year hiatus because of the pandemic, the annual Quonta (Northern Ontario Drama Festival) was held in North Bay this past holiday weekend, featuring groups from around the region and for the third consecutive year, Gore Bay Theatre has again received The Outstanding Production Award for its performance of Norm Foster’s ‘One-Actmanship.’
Gore Bay Theatre also received the most awards presented at the festival including the Outstanding Male in a lead role won by John Robertson, the Outstanding Female in a lead role for Tara Bernatchez, an adjudicator’s newcomer award for acting for Tammy Robinson, and an ensemble award for acting for John Robertson, Will Smith, Tammy Robinson and Tara Bernatchez.
Will Smith and Tammy Robinson were also nominated in the outstanding supporting actor and actress category.
Co-directors Andrea Emmerton and Walter Maskel were thrilled with the results. Mr. Maskel said, “we were competing against established groups celebrating their 75th anniversary from the Sault and North Bay who have a history of excellence over the years with large memberships, so we were pleased for our actors who were all recognized for their performances.”
Ms. Emmerton added, “the ensemble acting award is a very coveted award because it recognizes the entire cast working together as a team. It is not always presented at festival and to receive it is a great honour for the entire company.”
Adjudicator Rod Carley said Gore Bay Theatre had “great respect for Norm Foster and it showed by the quality of their work.” He also stated that “all design elements, set, lighting, sound and costumes worked well together and that the performances including pacing, timing, vocal and interaction were outstanding. The production was in good hands because of the experience and knowledge of the directors.”
Ms. Emmerton, as president of the Quonta region said, “it was a positive experience for all and an opportunity to renew old acquaintances and make new friends. Community theatre in Northern Ontario is again thriving and continuing to grow.”
‘One-Actmanship’ will be returning this summer as part of Gore Bay Theatre’s summer season. “We will be presenting two Norm Foster comedies this summer, ‘One-Actmanship’ and ‘Lunenburg’ because we felt it was important after the pandemic to provide our audiences with light, humourous entertainment by Canada’s leading comedic playwright,” added Ms. Emmerton.
