Murder on the Orient Express Program

ADAPTED BY KEN LUDWIG

Time: 1934 Location: Aboard the Orient Express as it travels from Istanbul to Western Europe. Running Time: Approximately 2 hours & 20 minutes, including intermission.

FEATURING

Hercule Poirot Derek Ward-Hall Monsieur Bouc Brady Moore

Greta Ohlsson Kenzi Dirks Countess Andrenyi Sarah Wiget

Voice Over Artists

Mary Debenham Tani Foster

Hector MacQueen Liam Whatley

Michel the Conductor/ Head Waiter Brennan Loewen

Princess Dragomiroff Karen Street

Helen Hubbard Shelley Picard Colonel Arbuthnot Anthony De Haan Samuel Ratchett Quinn Martens

Daisy Armstrong Moira Mason Mrs. Armstrong Charlene Mason Nanny Kate Woo Mr. Armstrong/Man Elijah Kroeker Additional Characters Curtis Maciborski Director Kate Muchmore Woo Stage Manager Rachel Fast Fight Choreographer Stephen Elcheshen

Set Designer Jeff Kiers Props Designer Charlene Crawford Costume Designer Emily Krack

Lighting Designer Nigel Brooke Sound Designer Elijah Kroeker Hair & Make-Up Designer Miranda Martin

Refreshments and snacks available in the lobby. You’re welcome to bring these items back to your seats to enjoy during the performance. Please place a lid on coffee cups and open cans & packaging prior to the performance. Thanks for your help in keeping the theatre venue clean and tidy!

PLEASE turn CELL PHONES and ELECTRONIC DEVICES off before showtime

• Please remain seated during the performance

• Please save the discussion and talking until intermission

• The videotaping or making of electronic or other audio and/or visual recordings of this production and distributing recordings or streams in any medium, including the internet, is strictly prohibited, a violation of the author(s) rights and actionable under United States copyright law. For more information, please visit www.concordtheatricals.com/ resources/protecting-artists

• Children under 3 unfortunately cannot be admitted into the theatre.

• Out of respect for your fellow audience members, please refrain from wearing strong fragrances while at the theatre.

Land Acknowledgement

facebook.com/ gallery7theatre twitter.com/ gallery7theatre instagram.com/ gallery7theatre youtube.com/ gallery7theatre

Gallery 7 Theatre’s mandate is to share stories that explore the relational, social, and spiritual aspects of the human experience with a vision towards hope, reconciliation, and redemption. In that spirit, we’d like to acknowledge we carry on our artistic endeavors on the traditional and unceded territory of the Sto:Lo people, Sema:th First Nation and Mathxwi First Nation and we are thankful for this opportunity. May there be healing and peace as we seek to build a stronger, respectful, and more unified community together.

Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.com

Copyright Note: Alexander’s Ragtime Band (Irving Berlin) Irving Berlin Music Co., administered in Canada by Williamson Music Co. (ASCAP), a division of The Rodgers & Hammerstein Organization: a Concord Company.

Bank. Borrow. Insure. Invest.

I have loved murder mysteries since I was a young girl, so when Gallery 7 Theatre asked me to direct The Mousetrap five years ago, I gladly said yes. Now we are back with another Agatha Christie classic, and it has been a joy to be at the controls of this captivating journey as well!

Murder on the Orient Express is one of Christie’s better-known novels, and one of her most thought-provoking. In this adaptation, Ken Ludwig has taken Christie’s masterful storytelling and highlighted, in provocative fashion, moral and ethical questions the great detective Hercule Poirot must face while taking on this case. How is justice defined? Is it black and white? Are there grey areas? How is it possible for multiple interpretations of justice to be “right?” If justice is merely people receiving what they deserve for their actions, who gets to decide what is fair? How or when does mercy fit into a circumstance? The consideration of these questions are central to this case, asking us all to wrestle alongside Poirot and the other characters: what would you do?

It would not be a proper Agatha Christie mystery if there was not a murder (or multiple!), and the murder(s?) which happen in this tale are set against the backdrop of one of the most luxurious train liners in the world. Gallery 7 Theatre’s team has had the enormous task of creating this posh environment, a train which becomes another character in the drama. The

ways it must transform and astonish should be just as mesmerizing as Poirot’s search for the killer. Jeff Kiers has designed this magical set, and Gallery 7 Theatre’s set building team, led by Andrew Potts with set dressing envisioned by Charlene Crawford, do not disappoint!

Thank you to Ken and the Gallery 7 Theatre family for continuing to have me aboard, and to the rest of the design team for your incredible work (Emily, Nigel, Elijah, Miranda, Dianna). Thanks to Rachel as well for your hard work organizing and managing the show so well. To the cast – thank you for the imagination, commitment, and excitement you brought to all the rehearsals – it was a pleasure! Derik – you are a very good man –thank you for always looking out for me.

All aboard! Enjoy!

Kate Muchmore Woo Director January, 2023

Acknowledgements

Gallery 7 Theatre extends a HUGE thank-you to all our volunteers for their hard work, dedication and support. Without them, this theatre would not succeed! We would also like to thank the following for their contribution to this production:

Abbotsford International Airshow – Dave Reith, Sandra Bater // Derik Woo

TWU

If you would like to volunteer or contribute to our productions, please contact us at 604-504-5940 or email info@gallery7theatre.com.

SAMC Theatre // Beth Gasser Ryckman // John Ryckman // Cohen Kiers

Greetings

from the Artistic Director

Happy New Year and welcome to Gallery 7 Theatre!

We first journeyed to the Agatha Christie universe five years ago with a production of The Mousetrap, discovering in the process that there’s actually quite a few Christie fans out there, not to mention a lot of people who simply love a good mystery. I completely understand the fascination: it’s a lot of fun wading through the various clues, evidence, and of course, direction & misdirection of the suspects as one tries to solve the puzzle. Coming to the same conclusion as our trusted master-sleuth is deeply gratifying.

I wonder too if this fascination with mystery and the satisfaction of a mystery solved stems from a deeper human need in all of us to right what has been wronged and to make sure justice is served. Such is the reason why a well-chosen murder-mystery is a perfect fit for us here at Gallery 7 Theatre. Not only are murder mysteries highly entertaining, but they also tend to ask some very intriguing moral questions that hopefully inspire us to be better people and to build a more positive world.

Now, I can’t say much about the play you’re about to see as I don’t want to reveal anything or spoil the ending. What I can say is that Murder on the Orient Express is a thought-provoking study on what true justice looks like and I’m really looking forward to hearing your thoughts after the show!

In the meantime, I’d like to personally thank all of you who contributed to our Light the Christmas

Tree fundraising campaign this past December. Together, we raised over $14,000, exceeding our target by $2k. We appreciate so much this incredible affirmation of the work we do here at Gallery 7 Theatre. Every dollar received goes towards producing quality theatre for the heart, soul, and mind here in our community. If you’d like to contribute, either through a one-time donation or through a monthly donation, give us a shout at 604-504-5940 or visit www.gallery7theatre.com/ donate. All donations above $10 will be issued a taxdeductible receipt.

And now, please enjoy the show. Then join us again in March when we present our long-awaited production of The Secret Garden

Curtain Up!

Ken Hildebrandt Executive/Artistic Director

Greetings from the Gallery 7 Theatre Board President

I hope you're excited for Murder on the Orient Express - Gallery 7 Theatre's first show of 2023!

Til next time.

The Board has taken a break during the winter holidays and used that time to recharge and prepare for 2023. I'd like to thank everyone who took part in our survey which asked some important questions about G7 and its future; your opinions are greatly appreciated, and they help both the Board and staff as we reflect on our strategic plan.

Matt Forster Board President

WHO’S WHO: CAST & CREW

Anthony De Haan

Charlene Crawford

Stephen Elcheshen

Nigel Brooke

Rachel Fast

Tiani Foster

Elijah Kroeker

Rachel Mackenzie

Brady Moore

Liam Whatley

Emily Krack

Miranda Martin

Derek Ward-Hall

Jeff Kiers

Sarah Green Kenzi Dirks

Karen Street

Andrew Potts

Shelley Picard

Kate Muchmore Woo

Quinn Martens

Brennan Loewen

Nigel Brooke (Lighting Designer) Nigel began his theatrical career with a critically acclaimed turn as 'Tree' and 'Candy Cane' in Hansel and Gretel at age five. More recently (and relevantly), his lighting design credits include Screwball Comedy, Ghost of a Chance and The Snow Queen (Royal Canadian Theatre Company) where he is also the resident lighting designer; Holy Mo and Spew Boy (G7), Henry V for Stone's Throw Productions / Pacific Theatre, and many more.

Anthony De Haan (Colonel Arbuthnot) This is Anthony’s first theatrical performance. Having watched theatre throughout his life, Anthony is excited to be involved in this production and looks forward to this being the first of many productions he can participate in.

Kenzi Dirks (Greta Ohlsson) Kenzi was itching to watch some live theatre this fall. Before she knew it, she had signed up to audition in two days’ time. This is Kenzi’s first full-scale production, and it has been a dream come true for her. Kenzi is honoured to learn from Kate and her exceptionally talented, yet mischievous, castmates. Dare not trust anyone in this show…

Tiani Foster (Mary Debenham) Tiani is utterly thrilled to be onstage again after a 4-year hiatus. A few of her favourite past roles include Helena in A Midsummer Night’s Dream (G7), Annie O’Ryan in Mail-Order Annie (Abby Theatre Fest), Rachel Lynde in Anne (G7), and General Genghis Khan Schmitz in Seussical the Musical (Xtreme Theatre). She also loves working backstage and spent many years as a stage manager/program instructor for Jesters Theatre

Jeff Kiers (Set Designer) Jeff graduated from Redeemer University with a double major in Theatre Arts and Mathematics and spent the following 25 years teaching math and drama in local Christian high schools. Jeff has produced and directed 29 shows. Highlights include Goodrich’s The Diary of Anne Frank, Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Brecht’s The Caucasian Chalk Circle. Jeff has designed several sets for G7 in the last few years and he is excited to share with you his latest set with moving parts.

Brennan Loewen (Michel the Conductor/Head Waiter) After years of COVID and learning how to act in front of a camera at Vancouver Film School, Brennan is finally back on the stage with Gallery 7 Theatre and hopes that you enjoy watching this mystery as much as he does performing in it.

Quinn Martens (Samuel Ratchett) Quinn is very new to the acting scene. Having only been part of one prior performance as the lights and sound tech, this is his first on-stage appearance. Having learned a lot about acting and himself through acting over these past few weeks, Quinn is eager to take the stage for the first time with the rest of his cast and crew to put on a great show!

Kate Muchmore Woo (Director) Selected local directing credits include This Wonderful Life, A Wrinkle in Time, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The Mousetrap, and Enchanted April (G7); The Illusion, Twelfth Night, Jane Eyre: The Musical, The Cover of Life, Bright Star, and The Miracle Worker (TWU SAMC Theatre); The Women of Lockerbie (Vancouver Fringe 2016); and Catch Me if You Can (Theatre in the Country). MFA Directing, UNC Greensboro. Love to Derik! http://www. katemuchmore.com/

Shelley Picard (Helen Hubbard) Theatre is her passion and has been for over 55 years (in fact, she says it runs in her veins), with 20 of those as a G7 board member, performer, director & playwright. When asked why theatre is so important, she says, simply, that it allows the performer and the audience to suspend all the stress of living for a short time and replace it with adventure, hope & excitement. It allows us all to play make-believe like we did when we were young. So, laugh out loud, fall in love, wipe the tears because tonight we’re going to ‘play’ together.

Andrew Potts (Construction Manager) In 2022, Andrew was involved in designing and/or building sets for eight different theatre shows, including building this train car. Thanks to our designers and assistant carpenters for all your help! More details can be found at www.handyandrew.ca/ theatre-sets/

Karen Street (Princess Dragomiroff) Karen returns with the talented director, Kate, who last directed Karen in the musical, Catch Me If You Can In this fun murder mystery, Karen is excited to be challenged to act with an accent. This is Karen’s 4th show with G7 (Trying, A Wrinkle in Time, and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat).

Derek Ward-Hall (Hercule Poirot) Derek is thrilled to be back on the G7 stage for the first time in over a decade! His last couple of shows before his self-imposed hiatus included the original Pride and Prejudice and Around the World in 80 Days. Derek also just wrapped up a show with Opening Nite Theatre in Mission called The Female of the Species

Liam Whatley (Hector MacQueen) This is Liam’s first production with Gallery 7 Theatre, his first time on a theatre stage in British Columbia, and his first time being involved in a theatre production! Thanks to Gallery 7 Theatre, the cast, and the crew for the dedication and hard work that has gone into putting this performance together.

Production Team

Assistant Stage Manager // Rachel MacKenzie

Lighting Operator // Mark Stephens Sound Operator // Chris Williams

Head of Construction // Andrew Potts

Construction Assistants // Karen Street Scenic Artists // Mikaela Karding, Stefan Karding House Managers // Linda Funk, Louise Reimer, Pete VanMulen Discussion Guide Editor // Angelika Dawson Program Layout & Design // Justin Keitch, Ignite Creative

Gallery 7 Theatre Staff

Executive & Artistic Director // Ken Hildebrandt Theatre Administrator // Amaris Henry Theatre Administrator (on maternity leave) // Mikayla Froese Production Manager // Charlene Crawford Marketing Associate & Webmaster // Gabe Kirkley Bookkeeper // Marion Witoszkin

Front of House Coordinator // Amaris Henry

Front of House Coordinator // Jenn Suess (on sabbatical)

Head of Properties & Company Photographer // Dianna Lewis Graphic Designer // Justin Keitch, Ignite Creative

Gallery 7 Theatre Board of Directors

Matt Forster // President Alison Chisholm // Secretary Ryan Boese // Vice President Rudy Ouwehand // Treasurer Russel Reitsema, Raymond Robyn, Fran Vanderpol // Directors at Large

SUPPORTER’S GALLERY

The individuals listed below are heroes of Gallery 7 Theatre. They have contributed some of their hard-earned cash to help us create entertaining theatre that stirs the heart, challenges the mind and elevates the soul. Thank you! Every effort has been made to make this list as accurate as possible but if you see an error or omission, please let us know at 604.504.5940 or at info@gallery7theatre.com so we can correct things. Our donors are very important to us!

Family Gallery ($1 - $99)

Faye Naples

Shirley Funnell

Cheryl Mulder

Cornwin and Christine DeRuiter

Jill McGrath

Shawn Brynelson

Jocelyn Phillipps

Sandy Petrica Sarah Cherry

Anonymous

Judith Doyharcabal

Natalie Hoogstra

Jacquelin Goudal

Neelam Mann Scott Sampson David Smith

Heidi Calzavara Carla Pattison David Allan Julia Hoogstra

Peggy Bradshaw

Marguerite Bouchard

Donna Flynn

Lisa Gordon Ron Hoock

Angela Kim Caleb LeClair

Sean Moore

Sarah Sorensen

Matina Lees

Evan Jones

L Hutchison

Sandra Fehr

Tami Ewert

Nancy Croteau

Joy Rousay

Jennifer Wittrup

Julie Koop

Kendra Craig

James Braun

Patron’s Gallery ($100 - $249)

John Crawford

Gordon and Frances Bates Cindy Coles

Ardis Janzen

Gareth and Cynthia Brandt Dorothea McCallum Susan Cuthbert Tamara Charman Robert Boughen Elizabeth Winn Janette Thiessen Nora and Lloyd Arnett Jenny Vanderheide Leone Hopwood Linda McRae Patricia Davis Ron Reed

Donald Strangway Sheila Flavelle Virginia Cooke Cindy Brown Helen Braun Ryan Scramstad Ian Fenwick Nev Kalegaric PayPal Giving Fun Canada

Actor’s Gallery ($250 - $499)

Rudy and MaryAnna Ouwehand

Louise Oppel

Lem and Elizabeth Doerksen Harold and Carolyn Krahn Maria Denholme

James and Margaret Reith Kate Woo

Betty Hildebrandt

Anonymous Gabe Kirkley

Director’s Gallery ($500 - $999)

Bob and Ruth Boughen Bruce McLaughlin Ken Hildebrandt Selwyn and Helen Uittenbosch Stephen and Sylvia Steward Lando Klassen Laura Kehler Charlotte Siemens

Producer’s Gallery ($1,000 - $4,999)

John and Angelika Dawson

Artistic Director’s Gallery ($5000 +) Doris Darvasi

You too can be a hero of Gallery 7 Theatre. Consider making a one-time donation or setting up a recurring monthly donation. All donations, big or small, are a HUGE help. All donations above $10 receive a tax deductible receipt. Give us a call at 604.504.5940 or go to www.gallery7theatre.com to make a contribution today!