Left to right: Angela Dennis, Nick Koupantsis, Aaron Hursh and James Ostime are the actors from the Persephone Theatre in Saskatoon.

By Alicia Koch
Citizen Staff

Brian Richmond, and Susan and Janet Wright founded Persephone Theatre in 1974. Still going strong, the Persephone Theatre is committed to working towards improving the quality of life of today’s youth. They present school matinees, and are producing a youth tour, which will visit dozens of schools in the province every year.

Tuesday, March 11th Persephone reached out to Kipling, bringing to us a play that not only touched on many concepts of life but also to bridge the gap between audience and actor. Interaction between the audience and actors was accomplished by a “gold” coin being given to each person in the audience and they were told to hang onto it because it may save a life. Later in the play when it comes to the part about charity and sharing, the audience and the “gold” coins play significant role.

The play “Saving Lonesome George” by Gail Bowen was an excellent approach to giving the students a chance to become empowered over one’s life and work on friendships, becoming more environmentally aware, sharing or giving, setting goals in life, team work and the effects that greed has on life.

The goal that Persephone Theatre has is very admirable. The realization and understanding that it is important to touch on issues with today’s youth about violence, an individual’s body image, and interaction, and how they affect our youth’s lives, is crucial. This was very much enjoyable and educational, and Persephone Theatre is definitely welcomed back to Kipling.