Andrew's Tree
by Martha Brooks

Theatre Direct Canada was pleased to announce its exciting slate of work for the 2004 season featuring the award-winning Andrew's Tree by Martha Brooks.

Andrew's Tree, an extraordinary drama about sibling relationships and the healing power of true friendship, tells the story of a young boy coping with the loss of his brother. First presented by Theatre Direct Canada in 1990, Andrew's Tree has been praised by students and teachers alike. This Chalmers award winning play, directed by Artistic Director Lynda Hill with original set, props and costume design by Kelly Wolf (Shaw Festival) and original music by Justin Haynes, will be seen by another generation of young people during its tour to southern Ontario

Synopsis
Four months ago twelve-year-old Patrick Devereaux lost his five-year-old brother in a car accident. Unable to accept the death of his brother and express his grief, Patrick finds himself caught in an endless merry-go-round of guilt and denial. Andrew's Tree is an apple tree originally planted by Patrick in celebration of his brother's birth, but now serves as a monument to his short life.

When the Peterson family moves in next door to the Devereaux's, Patrick finds himself having to protect Andrew's tree, which borders both properties, from them. Neil, a lonely five-year-old with a pet rabbit named Sparky; and Neil's sisters, nine-year-old Sarah and twelve-year-old Gillian are the new neighbours. They are eager to become friends with Patrick, who is reluctant to open up to them.

When Sparky dies, the two families come together for a touching funeral ceremony in honour of the rabbit. The memorial proves cathartic for Patrick who is finally able to speak of his brother, learn to express his feelings, and ultimately realize that through loving memories Andrew will never really be gone.

Director
Lynda Hill
Costume Design
Kelly Wolf
Choreography
Viv Moore
Stage Manager
Kristen Kitcher
Original Music
Justin Haynes

Cast
Mary Beath Badian
Nicco G. Lorenzo
Clare Preuss
Chris Ratz

Presented in 2004
 

"Andrew's Tree deals with the sensitive and important theme of loss in a unique manner that is easily understood by children." Grade 3 Teacher

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