By Michelle Kolobutin

For their eighth consecutive summer, Rob MacLeod’s Capitol Players will be returning to the Chippewa Park Pavilion to deliver their summer melodrama, this year entitled Canoe Unto Others or The Chillin’ Villain of Chippewa.

“Melodramas follow a storyline where good prevails over evil. They always include a hero, a villain, and a damsel in distress, and there is always a happy ending”, shares Janis Swanson, show producer. Canoe Unto Others, written by T.T. Lucky, follows the antics of Phoney Baloney, who wreaks havoc in a small town, and the quick wit of hero Woody, who comes to the town’s rescue. The cast of seven incorporate plenty of local references, play spin-offs of local personalities (like Mayor Heck Hobbs) and round out the story with Broadway show tunes that attendees are encouraged to sing along with. Live piano music rounds out the show.

The show is family-friendly and children are welcome, especially because of the show’s interactive nature, which will see you throw “Boo Balls” at the villain and cheer loudly for the hero. “Melodramas are a great way to introduce youngsters to live theatre because it is fast-paced and engaging,” shares Swanson.

Start a new summer tradition this year and join them Sundays at 4 pm or Thursdays at 7 pm throughout July (starting July 6). Tickets are only available at the door on a first come, first served basis. Sunday shows directly follow Summer in the Park at Chippewa, so stay for the day and enjoy the play afterwards.

For more information visit Thunder Bay Melodrama on Facebook.