The story begins in 1916 when Edna Harvey, a widow with a son (Albert) serving overseas, moves from Toronto to live with her brother in the Victoria Park area of Berlin, Ontario (now Kitchener). Grieving the separation from Albert, Edna is immediately embraced into the bosom of the chaotic but lovable German-Canadian family living next door, comprised of two boys (9-year-old Manfred “Manny,” and 18 year-old Jacob, “Jay”) and their crotchety but adoring guardian, Uncle Martin. The charm of everyday life in the back yard is increasingly disturbed by the intimidating presence of the 118th Battalion and the ferocious campaign to wipe the name Berlin (and all things German-Canadian) from memory. Edna must decide how to fulfill her duty (which she considers every woman’s obligation) to recruit Jay for the war effort while deploring the injustices she sees Jacob and his family facing in Berlin.Due to licensing and availability, movie titles may change. Bring your own lawn chair and blanket. Movies start at dusk (approx. 8:30/9:00pm). Check back regularly for up to date information.
Location: The Conrad Centre for Performing Arts – 36 King Street West, Kitchener
Contact: (519) 590-0923 http://backyardtheatre.ca/