Scratch Book

I saw a student production of Never Swim Alone at the Sears Drama Festival when I was in grade 11. This one-act play changed my perception of the theatre, and challenged my preconceived notions of what a play "should" be. The unconventional style of Daniel MacIvor introduced me to the realm of postmodernism. In my first year of university, I checked out a copy at the library in order to prepare for an audition for a local production of the play. Although I wasn't cast in Never Swim Alone, I received a role in another show that was a part of the same festival. The three actors cast in Never Swim Alone were perfect for their respective roles, and watching them onstage was a learning experience in itself.

You should read this play - but, you should really see a live staging as well, if you can. To read the unusual syncopated words of the characters is one thing, but to see a well rehearsed rendition of the play is quite the theatrical experience.

One of the best contemporary Canadian plays i've had the pleasure of reading.