Valerie Senyk and Callam Rodya had to put their personal relationship on pause while they rehearsed for “The Monument.”
In the play, Senyk's character, Mejra, offers Rodya's character, Stetko, life — but unlike Senyk's real-life role as Rodya's mom, Mejra saves Stetko from death by allowing him to live under her rule.
As the two are thrown together, audiences are invited along for the journey. “The Monument” marks the end of Encore Theatre Company's 2013 season. Running from July 11 to 20 at the Ernie Checkeris Theatre at Thorneloe University, the play is an award-winning classic by Colleen Wagner.
“'The Monument' is a profoundly affecting two-person drama that reminds us of the faceless horror of war, and of the guilt which whole nations must carry on their shoulders,” a media release from Encore stated.
Senyk has played the role of Mejra before, touring it across Canada and the United States. Playing alongside her son, however, has made the experience all new.
“Their relationship allowed Valerie and Callam to dig deep into these characters,” said Matthew Heiti, the production's director. “Having to hurt another person is horrible to contemplate, but hurting someone you love … well, it just translates on stage in a beautifully moving way.
“It’s a heartrending story, a challenging journey for an audience, but one that is ultimately buoyed by hope,” said Heiti.
The production runs nightly at 8 p.m., except Sundays and Mondays. A pay-what-you-can matinee is scheduled for July 14 at 2 p.m. Otherwise, tickets cost $25 for adults, $22 for seniors and $20 for students. Seating is intimate and extremely limited; only 38 tickets will be available for each performance.
Audience members are encouraged to buy tickets in advance at www.encoretheatre.ca.
