Bethune Imagined

Ken Gass’s new play makes Canadian history entertaining — imagine that!

Written and directed by Ken Gass

Ron White and Irene Poole in Ken Gass’s world premiere of Bethune Imagined at Factory Theatre, Nov. 13 – Dec. 12, 2010. Photo by Ed Gass-Donnelly.

If more historians could muster up intriguing details about the personal lives of prominent Canadian figures perhaps they wouldn’t be so forgettable. In his new play based on the life of Norman Bethune, playwright and director Ken Gass does just that. For those of you who don’t know much about him (we didn’t), Bethune was a Canadian physician, medical innovator, writer, artist and political activist whose service in war-time medical units during the Spanish Civil war and with the Communist Chinese 8th Army during the Sino-Japanese War, saved thousands of lives. Bethune Imagined is a candid look at his romantic relationships with three remarkable women during a six-month period in Montreal.

Sascha Cole and Ron White in Ken Gass’s world premiere of Bethune Imagined at Factory Theatre, Nov. 13 – Dec. 12, 2010. Photo by Ed Gass-Donnelly.

Appropriately, the bulk of the action takes place in Bethune’s apartment. Marian Wihak’s sophisticated stage design gives the set a warm and intimate feel, while Rebecca Picherack’s lighting creates a flirtatious mood. We are introduced to the three important women in Bethune’s life: Marian Dale Scott (Irene Poole), an artist and the wife of Frank R. Scott; Margaret Day (Sascha Cole), a young student who shares Bethune’s interest in socialist issues; and Frances Penney (Fiona Byrne), Bethune’s affluent ex-wife. Frances, who lives in England, is out of the picture for most of the play. But when Marian and Margaret become aware of each other, they are forced to accept the situation and compete for the doctor’s attention.

Ron White and Fiona Byrne in Ken Gass’s world premiere of Bethune Imagined at Factory Theatre, Nov. 13 – Dec. 12, 2010. Photo by Ed Gass-Donnelly.

When Frances arrives on the scene for a visit, a bizarre love “square” takes shape. While each woman battles for a special place in Bethune’s heart, the experience brings them together and in time they become friends. It’s clear that they all have one thing in common: a shared love and concern for this charismatic and stubborn man. They worry about his health (he’s an alcoholic) and fear for his life when he leaves to fight for “the cause” in Spain. Although Bethune unquestionably causes them pain, there’s no doubt that he loves each woman individually.

Overall the play is very well written and all of the cast are talented performers. White is a great choice for the title role. It does take a little while for the characters to develop, but once they do the story really flourishes. The second act is especially exciting. We really enjoyed learning more about this fascinating Canadian icon from a very human perspective. Hats off to Ken Gass for bringing Bethune’s energy and passion back to life. Canadian history buff or not, you don’t want to miss this show.

Bethune Imagined is on stage now until December 12, 2010 at The Factory Theatre. Visit the website for more information and to buy tickets.

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