Cat Scratch Fever
Reviewed by Debbie McClure
Small municipal townships deal with many important issues throughout the year, and in election years, thoughts turn to how to improve a town’s quality of life, jobs, and growth potential. The town of Rusty River is no different. As the town Mayor and council gather to discuss which items are most important, it becomes clear that there are many differing opinions and agendas. Throw in a couple of illicit romantic trysts into the mix, and you’ve got a fun portrayal of a “typical” small town council.
But what happens when the Mayor, Larry, announces a plan that has a personal benefit to him? Well, chaos ensues, of course. In a fit of anger and frustration at Larry’s “I’ll scratch your back, if you scratch mine” style of politics, one member (Tim) announces that his cat, Captain Whiskers, should run for Mayor. What started out as a bid to upset Mayor Larry turns into a story that the local newspaper simply can’t pass up. When the townspeople decide to get into the fun and take Captain Whisker’s nomination seriously, another council member decides to give both Larry and the cat a run for their money and throws her hat into the ring as well. What ensues is a wild race to the finish line in a debate that decides who ultimately gets to be the mayor of Rusty River!
Written by David Scott and Gil Garratt, The Last Mayor of Rusty River is a fun-filled musical that gets everyone laughing at the antics and quick-witted one-liners and banter between the characters. I had no idea what to expect in this production, and was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed it. The cast did an excellent job of transitioning between performing as the characters and musicians. The original songs by John Powers were fun, upbeat, and enjoyable. I’d definitely recommend this production to anyone who enjoys a light musical comedy.
The Last Mayor of Rusty River runs at the Margaret Stephens Stage until September 13th. Tickets are available at 519-523-9300 / 1-877-862-5984 or go to https://blythfestival.com/
Photo: Robin Craig, Cameron Laurie, Hallie Seline, Benedict Campbell, David Kirby, and Brontae Hunter. Photo by Alex Franklin
The Last Mayor of Rusty River
Written by David Scott and Gil Garratt
Performed by Benedict Campbell (Larry), Robin Craig (Judy), Brontae Hunter (Harmony), David Kirby (Jerry), Cameron Laurie (Tim), and Hallie Seline (Tina) Smith
Blyth Festival, Margaret Stephens Stage. 423 Queen Street, Blyth, Ontario
July 29 to September 13, 2026
Reviewed by Debbie McClure