Thursday through Saturday, August 19-21 | 7 PM
Thursday through Saturday, August 26-28 | 7 PM
Saturday matinee, August 21 and 28 | 2 PM

Synopsis: The play depicts the events of a single night, May 2nd, 1915, in the life of John McCrae. McCrae returns to his dugout physically and emotionally exhausted after having buried a comrade, Alexis Helmer. He closes his eyes to rest, and immediately falls into a reverie. Confused and distraught, he revisits the day’s events, the chaos of war, and his life up to this point. As he struggles with difficult questions, he receives a surprise visit from the spirit of his beloved mother, Janet. McCrae’s psychological turmoil becomes the catalyst for a pivotal moment.

In 2015, Guelph Museums launched Backyard Theatre at McCrae House with “A Night in Flanders”, an original one-act play by Don Macrae. This summer, we’re revisiting where it all began with a fresh take on the play that launched our Backyard Theatre program.

McCrae House is the birthplace of Lt. Col. John McCrae, the doctor, soldier, and poet who wrote In Flanders Fields. This show provides an opportunity to connect with the legacy of John McCrae in a contemporary and compelling way, set against the backdrop of the historic and beautiful limestone cottage in which he was born.

Running Time: 60 minutes (no intermission)

CAST
Tim Clarke………………………………………………………..John McCrae
Jennifer Cornish………………………………………………………Janet McCrae

PRODUCTION TEAM
Director……………………………………………………………Scott William
Produced by………………………………………………….….Scott William

“A Night in Flanders” script by Donald Macrae

Tickets are available through Eventbrite or 519-836-1221. Capacity is limited, advanced booking is required. 

PLEASE NOTE: This show is performed outside, in the backyard of McCrae House. Please dress according to weather conditions. We recommend casual clothing and comfortable shoes.

Following health and safety guidelines provided by Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health, the Museum has introduced enhanced cleaning protocols and new measures to keep guests, performers, and staff safe.

• Please do not attend if you are feeling unwell. Please contact us to reschedule or refund your ticket.
• When you arrive at McCrae House, please follow the directional arrows and physical distancing cues.
• Upon entry, please use the hand sanitizer provided.
• Masks are required.
• Refreshments will be available for purchase.

If you have any further questions, please contact [email protected] or 519-836-1221.