The show must go on

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This article was published 14/07/2020 (1905 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

It’s fair to say that in times of adversity, some people find unique ways to be creative.

That’s certainly been the case for Connor Wielgosz, who is in the process of launching his new original musical called LESS Miserable: A Video Musical.

The St. Boniface resident wrote, scored, directed, and edited the production, which was scheduled to be showcased at this year’s Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival. But when the popular summer festival was cancelled because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the 24-year-old pivoted his approach to ensure the actors and audiences stay socially distanced.

“The cast never met in person,” said Wielgosz, who is also one of nine performers in the show. The other cast members are Julia Davis, Willow Harvey, Erica Mitchell, Angelica Reid, Amanda Stegmaier, Jon Stitt, Charlotte Thompson, and Lovissa Wiens.  

He said the cast rehearsed online, and each performer was recorded separately, then edited into a video. “Nothing would have been possible without these eight performers. They are so talented.”

On July 6, LESS Miserable: A Video Musical, launched through the crowdfunding platform Indiegogo, and proceeds from the campaign will help support local performers who not only lost income this summer, but also a creative outlet when the festival was cancelled.

“This is an important opportunity to help performers buy food and afford their rent. It’s crucial that performers still have the chance to perform and audiences still have shows to enjoy, as it helps keep the local theatre scene alive, and ensures that creative energy is still there. During the summer, lots of performers rely on income from festivals, especially in Canada, and lots of artists have taken a bit hit during this time,” Wielgosz said.

The show costs $19 on Indiegogo — “less than the price of two Fringe tickets” — and individuals interested in doing more will receive show-themed goodies such as cross-stitches, stickers, and face masks.  

While the production parodies Victor Hugo’s iconic Les Misérables, the Grant Park High School alumus said audiences don’t necessarily need to have seen it to appreciate his twist on the tale.

“I’ve created a fresh plot line, and I’ve kind of taken the key plot lines and flipped them on their head. Whether you’ve seen the original or not, you’ll be able to follow the plot,” he said, adding the show has moments that make it suitable for a 16-plus audience.

The goal of the campaign is to raise $3,000, which will be split between the nine cast members and next year’s Fringe performance, which the cast have been invited to take part in, assuming the festival runs.

The campaign runs until July 28. Anyone interested in seeing the show can donate at www.indiegogo.com/projects/less-miserable-a-video-musical