The Cavan Blazers

Reviewed by Paula Citron
August 16, 2011

The Cavan Blazers
4th Line Theatre
Written and directed by Robert Winslow
Starring Richard Greenblatt, Edward Belanger, Lisa Hamalainen, Mark Hiscox, Matt Gilbert and Heidi Lynch
Winslow Farm, Millbrook ON
Aug. 2 to 27, 2011

Robert Winslow’s epic play, The Cavan Blazers, has been remounted to celebrate 4th Line Theatre’s 20th anniversary. It was the first play ever performed at the outdoor theatre, situated near Millbrook, Ontario. It also set the company’s mandate of original Canadian plays, many with historical ties to the area.

Based on a true story, The Cavan Blazers chronicles the futile attempt by Justice Patrick Maguire (Richard Greenblatt) to establish a Catholic parish in Cavan Township. The Blazers, led by Dane Swain (Edward Belanger), are the Protestant Orangemen who thwart his hopes. This is not a play with a happy ending.

The huge cast includes professional actors, recent theatre school graduates, and over 40 volunteers, from babes in arms to senior citizens.

4th Line shows always have live music, and this time composer Justin Hiscox’s score is a potpourri of Irish jigs and ominous drumbeats. The brutal stage fights make the audience gasp.

The Cavan Blazers continues at 4th Line Theatre until Aug. 27.