Wednesday, August 13, 2025

A Show to Consider as You Plan Your Fringe - Hearts Left Opn

Hearts Left Open - #3 Nordic Theatre in the TransAlta Arts Barn

Tickets

Who's Involved? 

Cast includes: Marisa Scarbeau, Karen Huntley, Ryan Mattila, Sara Gibson, & Dave Breakenridge

Marisa, Karen, Dave and Ryan have previously been seen at Walterdale Theatre's From Cradle To Stage Festivals. Marisa, Karen, Ryan, Sara and Dave recently performed in Ballad of Marie Marten with Leduc Drama Society. Ryan and Sarah have both performed in recent Walterdale productions, Stag and Doe,  A Party to Murder and Harvey.

Behind the Scenes: Laura Eschak is Stage Manager and has performed and crewed numerous productions in and around Edmonton. Mike Leoppky (Assistant Director) was recently seen in Shakespeare in Love at Walterdale and Ballad of Marie Martin with Leduc Drama Society. 

Hearts Left Open is written and directed by local artist Lee-Anne Smenyna. Lee-Anna based the story on her personal experience of growing up with a family member diagnosed and surviving cancer. An earlier draft of Hearts Left Open was performed as a staged reading at Walterdale's From Cradle To Stage 2025, and it was named one of three finalists in Script Awards Los Angeles competition recognizing powerful stories across stage and screen.  

Why should you see this show? It explores the tragedy, anger and healing that families experience when a member is diagnosed with cancer and may or may not survive. Audience members will recognize and relate to the anguish, fear, hope, heartbreak and if lucky, celebration that occurs in hospital wards; where families can be torn apart and/or rebuilt. Where hallway neighbors can become friends or chosen family.  Bring tissues. If you want a Fringe experience that pulls strongly on the heart strings and leave you emotionally changed, this is a terrific choice!

Hearts Left Open is supported by Canadian Blood Services, Alberta Cancer Foundation and Ronald McDonald House Charities. On August 15, RMHC will be celebrating 40 years of supporting families dealing with kids in medical facilities. 

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