The Vertigo Theatre complex at the base of the Calgary tower features two separate theatres: the main playhouse and the studio theatre. Both have seen their share of fantastic shows unfold on their respective stages. In March, the complex hosts something truly unique – two different theatre companies presenting two brand new works from Canadian authors.
Two years ago, Peter Colley’s I’ll Be Back Before Midnight was a massive hit for Vertigo theatre. Always on the lookout for new mystery scripts, Artistic Director Mark Bellamy asked Colley at the time if he could suggest other scripts for Vertigo’s audience. Peter Colley and Mark Bellamy continued open dialogue about future collaborations and, over time, Peter Colley informed Vertigo Theatre that it was always an interest for him to write a stage film noir type thriller. His idea was about a big city detective who comes to a small town and uncovers a dangerous secret. That was all Mark Bellamy needed to hear – Mark instructed Mr.Colley with: ‘Peter, you write it, I’ll do it’ and Noirville was born.
Life does not appear as quaint as it seems. When a burned-out city cop takes on the job as Sheriff in a small town, he is challenged with more danger than he ever faced on the mean streets of the big city. As the sun sets over the town, its pretty sunlit world turns into a place of darkness and decadence.
Vertigo Theatre is always on the lookout for new mystery scripts that are not currently in the company’s extensive library and asked if Peter Colley could suggest anything else that might appeal to the Vertigo Theatre audience.
Writers Block, March 13th – 23rd, is produced by Ground Zero/Hit and Myth Productions, the team who brought Urinetown and The Full Monty to Calgary. The play is written by Calgary’s own Eugene Stickland, directed by ATP’s Artistic Director Bob White and starring one of Calgary’s most beloved actors Trevor Leigh. Writers Block is the story of Luke Stike, the playwright in residence at a large Canadian theatre company. Frustrated with his situation with Revenue Canada, and his financial situation in general, he decides to defraud his theatre’s Insurance Company by going on long-term disability, claiming writer’s block. And wouldn’t you know it… it gets approved!
Unfortunately, after setting this scam into motion, he can’t help himself, he writes a play. Possibly the greatest work he has ever penned! With his reputation and career on the line, how far will one man go to keep his secret safe and still bask in financial success? This hilarious send up of the theatrical profession will appeal to those who work in the industry and those who watch it alike.
Noirville
March 8th – 30th
Calgary
www.vertigotheatre.com

Writers Block
March 13th – 23rd
Calgary
www.gzt.ca