My Mother's Lesbian Jewish Wiccan Wedding was a surprise hit at Toronto's Fringe Festival last summer, and now Mirvish has added it to its current season. Playing at the Panasonic Theatre, this "little play that could" is getting rave reviews and delighting audiences every night. The show is based on the true story of creator David Hein, who wrote the title song as a gift to his mother about her real life wedding. After that, David got together with his wife Irene (Carl Sankoff) and they started putting together a musical about the stories they are constantly asked to tell, topics such as what life is like with two moms, the "facts of life" talk that Irene received from her in-laws, and how David's mom first came out of the closet.
With hit songs that are both heartfelt ("If You Love Me"), hilarious ("You Don't Need a Penis" and "Don't Take Your Lesbian Mom to Hooters") and educational ("A Short History on Gay Marriage in Canada") this play is a ton of fun and Toronto audiences have really embraced it. Back from a brief hiatus, Wiccan Wedding has returned to The Panasonic Theatre to continue to delight crowds both young and old. BWW had the chance to sit down and talk with the Lesbian Jewish Wiccan Mom, Lisa Horner:
My Mother's Lesbian Jewish Wiccan Wedding is really being regarded as "the little show that could" You started out small at the Toronto Fringe and then were picked up by Mirvish, and now you are back for a successful return engagement at The Panasonic Theatre. Could you tell us a bit about what this journey has been like for you?
It's been a whirlwind of a thing! Only a year ago we were rehearsing in David and Irene's living room. I'd have a cat on my lap, getting ready for the Fringe. Most of us were working during the day and rehearsing at night. I was learning the script on breaks during catering shifts.
Do you have a favourite song or piece to perform each night?
I think I would say '10,000 Feet' is probably my favourite, because it's the start of this huge journey for Claire, it encapsulates what she's going through so clearly. I sing each moment as it's happening.
Many people might shy away from coming to see the production just because of the title, what would you say to people who are on the fence about giving the show a try?
Well, if any title is going to keep you away then there's probably not much to talk about, but I'm a big proponent of trying it to see if you like it. It's lovely and real and funny.
The subject matter of this show is arguably a bit controversial, but dealt with in a very light-hearted way. Have you experienced any back-lash as a result of being this "Lesbian, Jewish, Wiccan Mom"?
I am lucky enough to work in a community where being gay is accepted and to live in a country where (for the most part) we are very accepting of homosexuality. Though there is always room for improvement, I certainly haven't had any backlash.
You play David's mother, and David is in the show with you. Did you feel a certain amount of pressure playing not only a real person, but someone who is such an integral part of your costars life?
I do feel a great deal of pressure to get the story right, not because David and Irene are with me onstage, but because I have fallen in love with this family and the courage it took to put their whole life up there for everyone to see. I want to give it the respect and effort it deserves.
Your character is the heart of the show, how do you keep your performances fresh each night so that the true message continues to come across and touch the audience?
Gosh, that's one of my biggest challenges and fears...doing it justice and keeping it fresh!
What do you hope to do after My Mother's Lesbian Jewish Wiccan Wedding?
Well, I'm doing 'The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee' with Drayton Entertainment and I'm also writing a web series with my husband Matthew.
If you could offer one piece of advice to Canadians aspiring to get into musical theatre, what would it be?
I guess I would have to say that getting any kind of education or training is the right way to go. Musicals are a big part of my life and I'm very proud of that. But at the end of the day, it is all about story-telling, whether there is music or not.
When and Where?
My Mother's Lesbian Jewish Wiccan Wedding - EXTENDED AGAIN! Tickets now on sale through April 4th!
The Panasonic Theatre 651 Yonge St
