Western Canada Theatre is marking a full-circle moment this holiday season with the return of Anne of Green Gables – The Musical™, opening Nov. 21 at Sagebrush Theatre. The beloved Canadian classic — first staged as WCT’s inaugural mainstage musical in 1975 — is back for its 50th anniversary production, complete with a meaningful homecoming: Valerie Easton, who played Anne in that first staging, has returned as choreographer.
Based on Lucy Maud Montgomery’s iconic novel, with a book by Donald Harron and music by Norman Campbell, the musical follows the spirited, imaginative Anne Shirley as she arrives at Green Gables and transforms the lives of Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert, and eventually, the entire community of Avonlea. Under the direction of Erin McGrath, the production promises a high-energy, family-friendly celebration of belonging, resilience, and the magic of imagination.
A Story Rooted in Family, Community — and Movement
Easton, who has since built an extensive career as a director and choreographer, says the movement in this year’s production is inspired directly by Anne’s journey and the world of Avonlea.
“It really comes from the story,” she explains. “A lot of the choreography involvesthe children in Avonlea — Anne going to school, joining a new family, and finding her place. She’s very inspiring. She starts out different from the rest of the children, but they learn from her and she learns from them. The community benefits by having her.”
This production features a vibrant youth ensemble — ten young performers who carry the show’s most energetic dance numbers alongside the adult cast.
“They’re wonderful,” Easton says. “They’ve been working so hard, and they’re amazing. The choreography is energetic, refreshing, and really enjoyable. Kids will love it, adults will love it — it’s a beautiful story and a wonderful Christmas addition to the season.”
A 50-Year Full-Circle Moment
For Easton, returning to Anne of Green Gables in Kamloops isn’t just nostalgic — it’s personal. “It was one of my very first shows,” she recalls. “I was very young when I played Anne in 1975. To come back now, 50 years later, is wonderful. The show has been part of my life, and it keeps coming back.”
Kamloops itself has changed just as dramatically as the production. “I can’t even remember, but it was a lot smaller then,” she laughs. “The Sagebrush wasn’t the beautiful theatre it is now. Seeing how it’s grown is amazing.”
Easton has worked at WCT multiple times in the past decade and says the return always feels like coming home. “I love the people, I love the theatre. It’s always rewarding to work here.”
Adding a touch of family humour, Easton notes that she also happens to be the mother-in-law of cast member Kirk Smith, who is the Marketing and Communications Manager with Western Canada Theatre. “There’s definitely some family tradition here,” she says with a smile. “He and his wife met doing a show in Kamloops. It’s lovely.”
Performance Schedule & Special Events
Anne of Green Gables – The Musical™ runs until Dec. 7 at Sagebrush Theatre. Evening shows begin at 7:30 p.m., with weekend matinees at 2 p.m. and a special Wednesday Tea Matinee at 11 a.m. There are no Monday performances.
Special events include:
- Opening Night: Fri, Nov 21 | 7:30pm
- Pay-What-You-Choose Matinees: Sat, Nov 22 & Sat, Nov 29 | 2pm
- Relaxed Performance: Sat, Nov 29 | 2pm
- Tea Matinee: Wed, Nov 26 | 10am (11am performance)
- Pizza Pre-Show: Thu, Nov 27 | 6:15pm
- Student Matinees: Dec 2 & 3 | 11am
Recommended for ages 5 and up.
A Canadian Classic, Reimagined for New Generations
Whether you grew up watching Anne with an “E,” reading Montgomery’s novels, or attending past productions at Sagebrush, this year’s Anne of Green Gables is poised to be both a nostalgic tribute and a fresh, joy-filled experience.
“I hope everyone comes out and sees it and has a wonderful evening,” Easton says. “WCT does really good work. It’s a Canadian musical — and that’s always exciting.”
