“Lightkeepers” performances move audience to tears

We’re overwhelmed with gratitude for the incredible response to our “Lightkeepers” performances on Remembrance Day. The production shared the story of the 18 Newfoundlanders laid to rest in London and the young people who now carry their memory forward. Audience members called the show “world class,” “moving, stunning, impactful,” and one person shared, “It stands as one of the most meaningful acts of remembrance I’ve ever been able to observe.” Another wrote that it was “a production that reached all who watched it so deeply,” noting the performers were “beyond professional, poised and convincing in their roles,” and describing the experience as “an emotional ride I’ll never forget.”

Many people were especially moved by the heart of the story, saying, “I never knew this story, and now I do. And so do all those beautiful young people. You have done more to ensure that future generations never forget than you might realize. Every one of those gorgeous souls up there tonight is a lightkeeper. And they will make sure others never forget.” Others praised the care and attention poured into the work, calling it “packed with meaning” and “something I’ll be reflecting on for days.”

Parents and community members also spoke to the authenticity of the storytelling, with one person noting, “You managed to capture something really special. Not just remembrance as a moment, but remembrance as a living, ongoing responsibility we pass down to the next generation.”

Lightkeepers was written by Kyle McDavid , with original music/arrangements by Kyle, Leslee Heys, Maureen Ennis, and Perry Chafe. The show featured all of our Shallaway ensembles, as well as guest performers, musicians, and community members, descendants of the soldiers/nurse, and surprise appearances on stage by Steph Neale (former headteacher at Beatrix Potter School in London) and Her Honour The Honourable Joan Marie J. Aylward, O.N.L.

So many brilliant people came together to make this show happen. For full information, please view the show program by clicking here: https://shorturl.at/ItDwl

Shallaway is deeply grateful for this outpouring of support and truly honoured to have shared a work that touched our community so deeply this Remembrance Day.