Fun, Thoughtful and Reflective

Reviewed by Kim Kaitell

I knew I was going to have fun when I found out I was going to review Doris and Ivy in the Home by Norm Foster! What I didn’t expect was the deeper message of love, friendship and thoughtful reflection written within the humor. Directed by Liz Gilroy and playing until July 12 at the Port Stanley Festival Theatre, this three-hander is sure to enchant and entertain.

Set in the garden of a retirement home, the play introduces us to Ivy Hoffbauer a reserved and quiet former ski champion, whose existence is upended by the arrival of Doris Mooney – a brash, unapologetically outspoken former corrections officer.

Ivy just wants to be left alone and Doris is determined to make a friend. Enter Arthur Beech retired English Professor who only has a short time to live and is determined to have Ivy fall in love with him before it’s too late. Antics ensue as Doris and Arthur plot to move Ivy in the right direction.

However, what may have become cliché, instead becomes an engaging exploration of aging, love and missed chances. Norm Foster is known for his witty dialogue and this cast of seasoned professionals delivers with expert timing and emotional depth.

I was particularly taken with Ivy’s monologue about her first crush. And I wasn’t alone. As she reminisced about her experience you could have heard a pin drop in the audience. I know I wasn’t the only one remembering lost, tender moments and left wondering “what if”?

This was the kind of performance that reminds you of theatre’s power to connect on a very human level.

Doris and Ivy in the Home is more than just a comedy about growing old – it’s a reminder that life, in all its messiness and beauty doesn’t stop offering surprises and opportunities for growth, love and friendship.

This production is a stand-out offering in the theatre’s summer lineup that you won’t want to miss.

Before I sign out, I’d like to add that the PSFT is quite a gem! There is a welcoming and friendly atmosphere, not a bad seat in the house (they are also very comfortable!) and you absolutely can’t beat the view from their roof-top patio.

You deserve a break from the heat with a heart-warming play and Doris and Ivy in the Home will do the trick!

Photo: Brian Young as Arthur, Alison Lawrence as Ivy, Debbie Collins as Doris. Photo byDaniel Platt.     

Doris and Ivy in the Home continues at the Port Stanley Festival Theatre in Port Stanley until July 12, 2025. Tickets available at the box office by calling 519-782-4353 or online at www.psft.ca

Doris and Ivy in the Home
Written by Norm Foster
Directed by Liz Gilroy
Stage Manager: Jory Mclean
Set Design: Eric Bunnell
Lighting Design: Karen Chrichton
Costume Design: Alex Amini
Performed by Debbie Collins, Alison Lawrence, Brian Young
Port Stanley Festival Theatre, 6-302 Bridge St. Port Stanley, ON
June 18- July 12
Reviewed by Kim Kaitell