Firehall Arts Centre
Cathy Jones: Stranger to Hard Work

Dates & Venue September 28 - October 8, 2016; Tues at 7pm, Wed – Fri at 1pm (PWYC) & 8pm, Sat at 4pm & 8pm, Sun at 3pm | Firehall Arts Centre, 280 E. Cordova

Director Ann-Marie Kerr Stage Manager Jenny Kim

Reviewer Nancie Ottem


Cathy Jones, star of This Hour has 22 Minutes burst onto the Firehall Arts Centre stage last night, opening her one woman show, Stranger to Hard Work and the Firehall Arts Centre’s 34th season with a staccato energy that pulsed throughout the performance.

Playing two characters at once, with the clever use of a satin kimono and black vinyl pants, Cathy set a pace that did not let up throughout the 75 minute running time. She sang, she danced, she threw herself on the floor in anguish, changing costumes and voices to convey a visual dialogue of her life’s experiences.

We learned of her anxiety around stage performance, of her interactions with her family and the institutions that border our lives, her influenced Newfie childhood and the travails of growing older. Cathy’s sharp wit and insightful observations surrounding the vicissitudes of life had the audience laughing out loud for much of the evening. To a full house and with few props she worked her magic, poking fun at the usual suspects that invade our psyche.

Stranger to Hard Work is a feel good experience that makes us laugh out loud, which is always good medicine. The Firehall Arts Centre is synonymous with eclectic and thought provoking entertainment. Stranger to Hard Work as an opener for The Firehall Arts Centre’s 2016-2017 season promises a great season ahead.

© 2016 Nancie Ottem