Photo | Lighthouse Festival Website
Families looking for something fun and affordable to do close to home this March Break can head to Lighthouse Festival Theatre for two lively, interactive stage experiences designed to entertain all ages.
One of the featured performances is Fireside Munsch Classics, a theatrical celebration of stories by beloved Canadian author Robert Munsch. Rather than a simple reading, the show transforms five of Munsch’s most popular books — including The Paper Bag Princess and Pigs — into a fast-paced, acted-out production that invites the audience to join in.
Marketing and Communications Manager Don Kearney-Bourque says the magic of Munsch’s work lies in its wide appeal.
The performance blends the stories into one energetic show, with audience participation woven throughout. Children and adults alike may find themselves helping bring a favourite character to life, creating a shared experience that bridges generations.
The March Break lineup also includes DuffleBag Cinderella, performed by DuffleBag Theatre. Known for its improvisational style, the company builds each show around audience volunteers who step into key roles such as Cinderella, the prince or even the wicked stepmother. However, Kearney-Bourque explained it’s not entirely improv.
He says one of the most rewarding parts of the performance is watching shy children — and sometimes parents or grandparents — grow more confident and come out of their shells as the show unfolds.
The interactive format means no two performances are ever the same. Personalities from the audience shape the humour and pacing, leading to constant laughter that can be heard well beyond the theatre doors.
Fireside Munsch Classics runs March 17 in Port Dover, while DuffleBag Cinderella takes the stage March 18 in Port Dover and March 19 in Port Colborne.
“It’s a great interactive time for everybody,” Kearney-Bourque added. “You never know what you’re going to get, and that’s part of the fun.”
Written by Jeremy Hall