What An Amazing Show!
I got the chance to see On Golden Pond at the Victoria Playhouse Petrolia on Sunday afternoon and I’m still thinking about it. It’s been a long time since I’ve been to the VPP for a show. I almost forgot what a beautiful theatre it is. 
My seats were up in the balcony with a great view of the stage. We got there early and I sat in the seat, overlooking the stage, eager and so excited. Mostly for the chance to be in the same building as the woman I looked up to so many years as “Caroline Ingalls” on Little House on the Prairie.
I grew up watching Little House. I still gravitate towards re-watching old episodes as a pick me up. There is just something so simple and so feel good about that show no matter how old you get. Actually, I might appreciate it MORE now at my age. I used to feel a connection to Laura Ingalls, right down to the braids. Now, I appreciate the character of Caroline just a little bit more. Seeing her as a wife and mother. Caretaker of the family. Such a strong character.
So I admit, as the lights dimmed and the performance began, I was more than excited. As Karen Grassle walked on stage, in the character of “Ethel” in On Golden Pond, my heart raced. I was a bit emotional being in the same room.
I wasn’t sure what to expect with this performance, barely remembering the classic movie. But from the very beginning, I was all in.
It was full of laughter, perfectly timed jokes. Walter Borden who played Norman was brilliant in his role. Not bad for an “old poop” as Ethel called him on stage numerous times.
It’s a love story. Relationships. Family. Connection. Forgiveness. Heartbreak. Sadness.
So well done.
VPP is just one of the many treasures we are so very lucky to have in this area. I’m so grateful I got the chance to go.
