The winner of the 2023 Adams Prize for Musical Theatre, Dancer (A Musical In Ten Furlongs), premieres at the Toronto Fringe Festival, July 5 – 16, 2023 at the Al Green Theatre. It’s the inspirational story about the ‘too small, too awkward, too feisty’ colt who defied all odds to become the first Canadian-bred horse to win the Kentucky Derby. Part high-concept musical, part high-octane ballet, Dancer celebrates a Canadian legend. Taking inspiration from his name, Northern Dancer and all the other horses are played by dancers, who simply become horses, using their natural grace and athleticism, and without the use of special headdresses, puppetry or costuming.
Moses James Rankine plays the role of Brockton Boy. (Dancer photo)
Oh, What a Ride! presents this joyfully original show written by Dora and Chalmers Award winning playwright and lyricist, Jim Betts, with music by multi-award-winning composer Marek Norman. Emmy-Award Nominee Stacey Tookey directs and choreographs. Adding their creative talents are Musical Director, Mark Camilleri, Set and Costume Designer JB Nelles, and Dora Award Winner Lighting Designer Steve Lucas. Northern Dancer biographer Muriel Lennox acts as consultant. For extra authenticity, Official Kentucky Derby Milliner Jenny Pfanenstiel is creating an original hat for the show.
Keanu Uchida stars as Northern Dancer and the story is told by historic characters, including Dancer’s groom, Bill Brevard (Dora Award winner Sterling Jarvis), Canadian tycoon E.P. Taylor (three time Gemini Award winner Daniel Kash), his wife Winnie (Dora Award winner Barbara Barsky), Dancer’s trainer, Horatio Luro, (Gene Gabriel). Calling the races and adding colour commentary is Daryl (ACTRA Award nominee Sam Rosenthal). With a cast of 20, and award-winning creators and performers, Dancer is the show to place your bets on.
Click for tickets and more information about the Toronto Fringe Festival and Dancer (A Musical In Ten Furlongs).
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