The Road To Mecca

Diana Leblanc & Shannon Taylor in The Road To Mecca. Photo by Cylla von Tiedemann.

Athol Fugard's award-winning play The Road To Mecca is a story about friendship, individuality, and straying off the beaten path. The work is based on the real story of Helen Martins, a free-spirited artist who filled her garden with cement sculptures and coloured glass (now referred to as The Owl House), much to the disapproval of her conservative neighbours in the village of Nieu Bethesda, South Africa.

Directed by David Storch, Soulpepper's production features Diana Leblanc as the aged artist Miss Helen. In the opening scene she receives a surprise visit from her opinionated young teacher friend Elsa Barlow (Shannon Taylor), who is concerned about her well being after receiving a distressed letter. Helen is losing her eyesight and has terrible arthritis in her hands, which serves as the perfect excuse for neighbours, and the local preacher, Marius Byleveld (David Fox), to move her into a retirement home. Miss Helen obviously doesn't want to leave her self-made mecca, and Elsa sees Marius' intentions for what they really are. She knows the people of the village are jealous and suspicious of Miss Helen, and don't necessarily want what is best for her. While Elsa and Miss Helen don't always see eye to eye, the strength of their bond helps to boslter Miss Helen's resolve to stand up for what she believes in. Their mutual love and respect is at the centre of this thought-provoking play.

Featuring a glittery, colourful set overflowing with statues, and atmospheric lighting by Beth Kates, the stage is transformed into an eccentric paradise inspired by one woman's unique vision. The cast performs beautifully here: Leblanc's understated portrayal of Miss Helen is both quietly vulnerable and empowered; Taylor shines in her Soulpepper debut as the outwardly strong yet damaged Elsa; and Fox is compelling as always as the narrow-minded but well-meaning preacher. Watching the three performers work together across generations is truly enjoyable and makes this production well worth a visit to the Young Centre.

The Road To Mecca runs until May 28. Visit soulpepper.ca for more information and to buy tickets.

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Q&A: The Road To Mecca

Soulpepper newcomer Shannon Taylor talks about her role in the company's production of Athol Fugard's award-winning play