Local theatre gets Riel

When St. Albert composer/lyricist Cindy Oxley was inspired to write a musical surrounding the life of Louis David Riel, she probably didn’t realize how it could affect hundreds of young minds.

However Hey Riel!, scheduled for three performances at the Arden Theatre on Feb. 22 and 23, has become a must-see for the Grade 7 social studies curriculum.

“After kids learn about Confederation, they study Riel and his influences on the Métis and his subsequent battles in northern Manitoba and Batoche, Saskatchewan,” says play producer Deana Thomson.

At the heart of Hey Riel! is the Canadian hero’s influence in establishing Métis rights and the ownership of lands. A larger than life personality, Riel was a complex person and is treated as such in the play, Thomson adds.

“We introduce students to Riel as the man, the politician and a community leader. It is historically based although there is some artistic license. There was talk that Louis Riel was demented. We’ve taken artistic license by having the ghost of Thomas Scott haunt him.”

Flying under the banner of MusicalMania, this historical incarnation received its first live treatment in 2000 and was tweaked in subsequent mountings.

Oxley was at the time moved by Riel’s determination.

“What really hits home is his conviction for standing up for what he believed in. Riel didn’t like bullies – even as a child. He could have had an easy way out, but he knew he was right and was executed,” Thomson says.

Returning to the fold is Julien Constantin, who originated the part of Thomas Scott, Riel’s bullish rival.

“Julien built the part and because he’s matured over the years, he brings a new refinement to the role,” Thomson says. “He adds new dimensions in facial expressions, body movement and little nuances that are fascinating to watch. He has really found the emotional centre of his character.”

And of course Paul David Mercier reprises the role of Riel, a man who walked to the edge of madness.

“Paul’s great strength is his passion. He lives his life as a Christian like Louis did. His passion about Jesus Christ is the key to the role he portrays.”

The cast also includes a new Colonel William, the officer who gave the battlefield order to fire and charge at Batoche. Richard Smith, a fairly young actor, has been cast in the image of the real Colonel.

“Richard brings youth and energy. If you could see an actual picture of the Colonel, you’d swear he didn’t shave,” Thomson says.

Ultimately, Thomson sees the play as tackling a human rights issue.

“That’s the key to the entire play.”