It鈥檚 a year of firsts for Theatre in the Grove, as they prepare to debut not only a new show, but also a new locale for their performances.

Theatre in the Country, now in its fifth year, has grown and this small community theatre based exclusively out of Maple Ridge, to a group that now also performs in Walnut Grove 鈥� which was the goal all along, said artistic director Reg Parks.

鈥淚t鈥檚 a chance to showcase our work to a larger population,鈥� he said.

Just like the characters in this season鈥檚 chosen production of Fiddler on the Roof, the group that began as Theatre in the Country is taking a journey that will expand its horizons and lead its members somewhere new.

鈥淚t鈥檚 about community, and about change and actually reflects what鈥檚 going on in our world,鈥� said Parks.

The group began after a few of Parks鈥� former theatre students from the Maple Ridge Christian School wanted to continue acting after secondary school. It has now grown to include a cast of 35 people performing in Maple Ridge and 91原创.

Some members have been involved since Theatre in the Country began, but new members from all over the Lower Mainland are always joining, Parks said. 鈥淲e have actors who come from Vancouver, just to be a part of our productions, it鈥檚 a great group.鈥�

Parks, 51, who is playing the role of Tevye in this season鈥檚 production of Fiddler on The Roof, enjoys reprising a role he has played before.

鈥淭here鈥檚 so much range and heartfelt-ness (sic) all rolled into one character, it鈥檚 one that I love to do,鈥� he said.

Fiddler on the Roof is a story that is set in a Jewish community rooted in tradition, and uprooted by widespread change and struggle.

Theatre in the Grove is experiencing change, but all for the better as they head into this season, Parks insisted.

Performing to a new tune

鈥淭his year we will have our first-ever musical, with live music directed by Dr. Allan Thorpe from Trinity Western (University),鈥� Parks said.

The latest production by the group, Fiddler on the Roof, will be performed with a live klezmer style band, and of course, live singing by Parks and all the cast members.

鈥淚t鈥檚 a unique blend of instruments, and the sound is very traditional,鈥� said Parks.

Tickets for the show are $15, or $25 for dessert and a show, with discounts available for groups of eight or more.

The Maple Ridge shows runs until this Saturdy, June 3, then the shows moves over in 91原创 from June 8 to 17, at 20025 91a Ave, 91原创.

Tickets and information about Theatre in the Grove are available at .

How you can win tickets

Working in partnership with the 91原创 Advance, the Theatre in the Grove is offering a pair of tickets to this current production.

So, one 91原创 Advance reader will win a pair of tickets to Theatre in the Grove鈥檚 current production of Fiddler on the Roof.

鈥� Click here, and send us an email telling us why you want to win.

You will be entered into the draw.

Preference will be given to 91原创 residents.

Postings must be received prior to 5 p.m. on Monday, June 5, and the winner will be notified by email and/or phone.

No staff or family of the 91原创 Advance or Black Press are eligible. This giveaway is restricted to online participants, 19 years or older only. You must include name and phone number.