Emile’s Dream

Written by Robert Chafe

with words and music  by Emile Benoit

Directed by Jillian Keiley

Originally commissioned by the

Stephenville Festival

May 3 - 8

LSPU Hall, St. John’s

May 18 -22

Supernova Festival, Eastern Front Theatre, Halifax

Legendary Newfoundland fiddler and storyteller Emile Benoit was a figurehead for the Newfoundland folk renaissance, contributing over 150 distinctly original fiddle compositions, and his seemingly endless catalogue of fantastical stories of English, Irish, and French origins.

Originally commissioned by and co-produced at the Stephenville Theatre Festival as Vive La Rose, Emile's Dream is a lively theatrical and musical tribute to a true Newfoundland legend.  Benoit was a character of mythic proportions while he was alive, and still now, fifteen years after his death.  Emile`s Dream is as alive and unpredictable as the man himself, with three actor/fiddlers trading off Emile's words and music in a kinetic verbal and musical juggling act.  Kelly Russell, once a protégé of Emile himself, leads the group of three that also includes Daniel Payne and Phil Churchill.  Emile's Dream is a must see for any and all with an interest in the music, stories, and French culture of Newfoundland, and for those who love a lively story and a night of great tunes.