Project X's 'The Hobbit' (Image Credit: CFJC Today)

By Michael Reeve

Project X

Theatre Under the Trees returns to Prince Charles Park

Jul 12, 2023 | 4:11 PM

KAMLOOPS — There is something simply magical about live theatre. Take the whole production outdoors and you have a recipe for something truly spectacular.

Project X’s Theatre Under the Trees at Prince Charles Park is preparing for its final preview of The Hobbit Wednesday (July 12) before the three week run begins in earnest on Friday.

“We love it here. We are so privileged to have this amazing venue, and to be able to play outside in the summer. It’s incredible,” said Artistic Director Randi Edmundson.

Without the friendly comforts of the theatre, the crew has been forced to get creative in both choosing of the productions and the staging.

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“We like to choose shows, too, that are kind of exciting to see outside. A lot of our shows are adventure shows and it just works. You feel the forest because the trees are right here,” said Edmundson.

“It has been such a treat. I can’t begin to say how much I love it. I love the sun, I love the heat. I love being outside. I’m an outdoorsy person, believe it our not,” added Hobbit Director Jennica Grienke. “It’s just such a treat because, in theatre, so often we just spend so much of our time in a black box where you can control the temperature and the lights and everything is manipulated on purpose.”

Should Mother Nature not cooperate, Project X does have an indoor venue available to them, but they hope to not use it.

The Hobbit production sees five actors bring the legendary tale to life.

“I would encourage them to forget about the movies. Peter Jackson had a lot more time and money. We have just gone back to the good old days and we use the magic of theatre and we use your imagination. Five actors do an incredible job of telling a story that has armies and a huge hike and we make it all happen in front of your eyes in under two hours,” said Grienke.

On top of serving as the artistic director, Edmundson also stars alongside her cast mates in The Hobbit.

The other show taking to the stage in the park is The Incredible Adventures of Mary Jane Mosquito, which debuts on Thursday (July 13).

“It’s really good for younger kids. Really musical, interactive, a little bit shorter. A beautiful story about friendship, overcoming, learning to make friends, finding your voice. Beautiful message,” said Edmundson.

The shows run until July 29.