I’m too small, not strong enough, not smart enough… What if there was a world where we could challenge what we’ve been told and achieve something amazing?

“It’s a story about finding our place in this world.”

Sum Theatre’s Theatre in the Park takes Saskatchewan audiences on a musical journey where all is possible in Breathe. The tale follows a fish seeking refuge on an island inhabited by a reclusive dragon. The two must adapt to change to survive.

Playwright Danielle Roy hopes the play inspires kids to reach for their dreams. (Studio D Photography)

“It’s a story about finding our place in this world. Figuring out how to navigate what we’ve been told about who we are and what we’re capable of,” says playwright Danielle Roy. “Our breath is empowering, a way to calm our anxiety and look within for the strength we need to achieve our dreams.”

“…Part play, part puppet show, and all rock concert.”

In its 13th season, Theatre in the Park brings the magic of live theatre to our neighourhood parks with the original story, live music, giant puppets, and crowd participation that the audiences have come to know and love. The production interweaves a live band throughout the story making this show as much a musical experience as a visual one.

Sum’s live band (l-r) Cooper Muirhead, Jesse Fulcher Gagnon, and Oli Guselle. (Britainy Zapshalla)

“More than ever the audience will feel the music,” says Mackenzie Dawson, Sum’s artistic director and co-director of Breathe. “It’s the heartbeat of the show; part play, part puppet show, and all rock concert.”

“Shows like this connect with audience members of all ages on so many levels.”

The funky grooves and catchy anthems created by a team led by music director Jesse Fulcher Gagnon grabbed cast newcomer Alex Steponchev immediately.

Alexa Steponchev plays Avel a fish in search of a new home. (Britainy Zapshalla)

“I love anything whimsical and stories that are energized, heartfelt, and funny,” says Steponchev who plays Avel, the fish. “There are such cool musical moments in this show. It’s the reason I became an artist. Shows like this connect with audience members of all ages on so many levels.”

“Breathe is a chance for families to make memories together…”

Co-director Grahame Kent says this is a theatre experience you won’t get anywhere else. (Studio D Photography)

Theatre in the Park is an annual tradition providing free, professional, live theatre to families throughout the province. The tour will include stops in Saskatoon, Regina & Area, as well as several stops in Northern Saskatchewan. Everyone is welcome, no tickets necessary, just a blanket or a lawnchair. This year’s team can’t wait for you to join in on the fun.

“This is a theatre experience you won’t get anywhere else,” says co-director Grahame Kent. “It’s a story created by Saskatchewan artists, the people you walk by on the street. Breathe is a chance for families to make memories together and will inspire kids to follow their dreams.”