Every day thousands of “what if’s” run through Nicky’s mind, fears that keep her hidden away in the school sick room, that is until Milo comes barreling into her life. 25th Street Theatre is hitting the road with this tale of unlikely friendship and courage. What If will be performed for students in 14 rural schools before wrapping up with a pair of public performances in Saskatoon at Nutrien Wonderhub.

What If reaches out to young people who are experiencing anxiety with understanding and compassion.

Director Anita Smith hopes this play helps children who see themselves in the characters.(Erin Crooks)

“Childhood anxiety rates are on the rise. Saskatchewan has some of the highest rates in the country,” says director Anita Smith. “What If reaches out to young people who are experiencing anxiety with understanding and compassion. It’s also for the people in their lives that can help them cope, helping kids and adults see the world through a different perspective.”

If I had seen this play as a kid, it would’ve done so much for me

Rachel McLaughlin plays Nicky and says the role is very familiar to her personally.

Rachel McLaughlin plays bird-loving “Nicky” in What If. (Nicole Stevenson Photography)

“I was anxious and very introverted as a child. Making friends wasn’t always the easiest,” says McLaughlin. “Through encouragement, determination and really finding joy, she forms a sweet bond with this boy, Milo, who’s just happy to be there and hang out with her. She grows so much. If I had seen this play as a kid, it would’ve done so much for me.”

Giving more kids a chance to see live performance is exactly what this tour is about. 25th Street will visit schools in towns like Hodgeville, Beauval and Hague, places that don’t normally have access to professional, live theatre.

Kody Farrow hopes the tour encourages more kids to explore theatre. (Nicole Stevenson Photography)

After the show, cast members will hold workshops on topics like character development, voice, movement, and storytelling to share what they know about theatre creation.

I never knew the possibilities or how much fun it could be to explore a character

“Growing up in Dalmeny, there wasn’t much of an arts scene,” says Kody Farrow who plays Milo. “I was always playing pretend but I never knew the possibilities or how much fun it could be to explore a character. I’m excited to hit the road, connect with the students, and share the excitement of theatre.”

“Who knows? The next generation of theatre artists could be in these towns,” says Smith. “We want to inspire them. The communities are excited to have us and we are happy to be visiting so it doesn’t feel like work, just that we are all working together to build something great.”