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EXPECT THE EXTRAORDINARY

SEASON: Fall

LOCATION: 55 Queen Street, Stratford Festival Theatre

WEBSITE: www.stratfordfestival.ca/WhatsOn/PlaysAndEvents/LeasedEvents/PAL

HIGHLIGHT: An evening of entertainment created by the professional artists of Stratford

Expect the Extraordinary, ETE for short, is an annual fundraising event for Performing Arts Lodge (PAL) Stratford, a charitable organization that provides affordable housing and assistance to professional artists fifty-five years of age and older. Actors; prop-makers; set, lighting, and sound designers; composers and writers; and anyone else who has devoted their life to a profession in the arts of all genres can benefit from PAL.

In the fall each year, for one special night, a Stratford Festival stage comes alive with energy, generosity, and creativity. A volunteer group of company members of the Stratford Festival, along with special guests, donate their time and talents. Backstage crew members and Festival staff members pitch in to bring it all together. “These people are our heroes,” says Arlene Jillard, PAL Board of Directors.

Each Expect the Extraordinary production is titled with a theme. In 2019, it was “The PAL Kitchen Party.” In 2018 it was “He’s Our Man: A Tribute to Leonard Cohen.” In 2017, it was “All You Need Is Love … and The Beatles.” The person who volunteers as artistic director is responsible for creating and hosting the show.

Before the show and during intermission, there is a silent auction with items provided by theatrical professionals, local businesses, and supporters. It is an opportunity to pick up one-of-a-kind Stratford Festival treasures. If you are lucky, you’ll bid on and win a cast-signed poster from one of the season’s shows.