Canby Community Theatre is back like you’ve never seen it before, with a hair-raising and side-splitting rendition of Wiley and the Hairy Man being presented this week and next at the Flower Farmer north of Canby.
Inspired by the traditional American folk tale and lore of the Deep South, the play tells the story of young boy who must face his worst fears in a swamp haunted by the villainous Hairy Man — aided by his magic-practicing mother and trusty hound dog.
An ever-present Chorus and off-stage Foley artists provide the rhythm, rhyme and ambiance that bring the mysteries of the swamp and the overall narrative to life.
Though magic imbues the show, it is not the magic of fairy dusts and flights of fancy — but rather, the earthy magic of the swamp and the grit to survive. In an exciting duel of wits, Wiley must learn to rely on his own resources as he faces down not one, but two villains: the Hairy Man and his own fear.
The show is directed by longtime local theater promoter Craig Holbrook and stars Alexandria Woodward, Cody Clark, Victoria Ferguson and Randy Hamilton.
Annie Hamilton, Chelsea Hamilton, Iden Hurd, Ezzah Soumare, Rokhaya Soumare, True Pierson, Henry Waxenfelter, Delaney Wilder form the Chorus. Evan Hamilton, Oliver Hamilton and Catherine Waxenfelter serve as Foley artists.
The show is presented at a custom outdoor amphitheater ringed by giant hay bales and decorated with vines and webbing. Tickets are free but seating is extremely limited. Reserve your spot online at eventbrite.com/e/wiley-and-the-hairy-man-tickets-369217999977. Donations are accepted.
Canby Community Theatre’s production of Wiley and the Hairy Man will be presented at 6:30 p.m. August 4 through 6 and 11 through the 13th at the Flower Farmer, located at 2512 North Holly Street.
