Local actor is a prince

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 03/01/2020 (2095 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

I had the opportunity to interview a very talented and charming local actor, Chis Sousa, who is currently playing the role of Prince Ronald in Prairie Theatre Exchange’s production of The Paper Bag Princess.

Sousa attended Oak Park High School and is a graduate from the University of Winnipeg’s honours acting program. Sousa has been involved with many theatrical projects since graduation, such as the young creators unit at Manitoba Theatre for Young People and Vault Project’s Hedda, Reimagined.

Sousa is excited to be performing in this play based on the popular children’s book by Robert Munsch. Winnipeg playwright and director Alissa Watson has taken the nine -page storybook and has turned it into a live stage production. Johanna Burdon, who plays the Dragon, and Dutchess Cayetano, who plays Princess Elizabeth, complete the cast. I attended the holiday show this year with my family. It was truly entertaining: with strong performances, colourful costumes and unique set design. The story is witty and adventurous. The plot reveals strengths and weaknesses in the characters that leads their journey to an unexpected twist of events and ending.

Sousa describes his role as creative, physically challenging, but mostly a lot of fun. Sousa’s main character is Prince Ronald, but he also plays several supportive roles. With the change of his voice, mannerisms, and quick costume changes, Sousa can create likable and often comical personalities that capture the audience’s attention and imagination. Sousa is also a skilled puppeteer.  His interactions with one of the characters “Bethany,” was a humorous hit with the audience.

In the New Year, this theatrical production will be travelling to schools throughout Winnipeg and rural Manitoba. The cast and crew will be visiting over 43 schools and performing over 80 productions from Jan. 14 to March 27.  PTE has been bringing live theatre to children in their own community for several years. This often is the first introduction to the arts for students. It is estimated that over 17,000 students will have attended this production during its run.

Sousa feels fortunate to be part of this tour which will reach so many children. The story of The Paper Bag Princess inspires resilience and self-discovery, encouraging individuals to find their own path. It is a wonderful message to teach. Good luck, Chris,  and as they say in show business, break a leg!

Sue Schumacher is a community correspondent for Westwood.