A pivotal moment in Canadian baseball history is due to be showcased at the Deep Cove Stage Society theatre in North Vancouver.
Diamond Girls tells the story of a Canadian women’s baseball team who played professionally in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League during the Second World War.
The production, directed by Val Mason, will take place from June 8–24.
Initially performed as a one-woman-show, Saskatchewan playwright Maureen Ulrich has expanded the production to feature six men and six women.
In historical productions like Diamond Girls, attention to detail makes all the difference.
“I’ve been incredibly impressed with the research that the playwright did,” said Mason.
“What’s presented on stage are real people. They are people who existed, we use their names and their stories.”
The play highlights a time in history where women were given the opportunity to partake in activities that were traditionally forbidden.
“I see it as storytelling, you meet these women and the significance that it had for them, and what their experiences were in that environment,” said Mason.
With over 25 roles in the play, actors will be playing multiple parts, with some acting out as many as eight characters throughout the production.
“Most of the actors are finding it really exciting to be able to do more than one role, it’s a stretch for their skill set and we’re just having so much fun with it.” Mason said.
Those looking forward to seeing the team in action won’t have to wait until June, with two cast members set to partake in the opening pitch at the Vancouver Canadians game at Nat Bailey Stadium this month, on Mother's Day, May 14.
What: Diamond Girls
When: June 8-24
Where: Deep Cove Stage Society
Tickets: Visit the Deep Cove Stage Society website
Jordan Copp is an intern reporter with the North Shore News. He can be contacted at jordan.copp@hotmail.com.
