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St. Jacobs Country Playhouse

Over the River and Through the Woods

A Multi-Generational Comedy

April 9 to April 27, 2025

By Joe DiPietro

The ties that bind – and sometimes choke – are explored with uproarious results in this heartwarming comedy about growing up and growing old. The generation gap is affectionately portrayed through the eyes of four Italian-American immigrants who reside over the life of their grandson, Nick Cristano, with loving manipulation. When Nick decides to cut his family ties and move away to pursue his career, the aging grandparents hatch an offbeat scheme to stop their beloved grandson from leaving – with side-splitting results.

A fun-filled journey with hilarious twists leads Nick to the realization that his grandparents have much more to dish out, in the way of advice, than hearty meals. Family is truly the centre – the very heart of life – and this memorable production will speak to all generations of theatregoers.

Tengo famiglia!

Recommended for ages 10 and up.  

Running Time: 2 hours and 10 minutes, including 20 minute intermission.

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Reviews

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Exemplifies the power of live theatre. We laughed (a lot), cried (a lot) and were left thinking about the importance of our own relationships with family. Cannot recommend enough!
Jason MacChesney, Georgetown
If you're looking for a show that combines laughter, heartfelt moments, and a touch of nostalgia, Over the River and Through the Woods is a must-see.
Tanya M, Londesborough
Hilarious and heartwarming! A must see!
Sharon V, Dashwood

Meet The Artists

Company in Over The River and Through The Woods, Drayton Entertainment, 2025 Season. Directed by Alex Mustakas; Set Design by David Antscherl; Costume Design by Alex Amini; Lighting Design by Lyle Franklin; Stage Manager Charles Russell; Assistant Stage Manager Paula Stewart.
 In this image from Over The River and Through The Woods, a warm, lively theatre scene set around a family dinner table. Six characters sit together: a young woman smiles brightly while others engage in conversation. The table is set with wine glasses, a basket of bread, and a white tablecloth decorated with red and green stripes. The cozy set features golden walls, family photos, and a window showing a dusky evening sky, creating a welcoming, intimate atmosphere.
Michael Vanhevel and Rob McClure in Over The River and Through The Woods, Drayton Entertainment, 2025 Season. Directed by Alex Mustakas; Set Design by David Antscherl; Costume Design by Alex Amini; Lighting Design by Lyle Franklin; Stage Manager Charles Russell; Assistant Stage Manager Paula Stewart.
 In this image from Over The River and Through The Woods, a theatre scene set in a cozy living room and front porch. An older man sits in a floral armchair holding a newspaper, wearing a checkered shirt and maroon sweater vest, mid-conversation. Behind him, a younger man in a tan blazer, dress shirt, and tie stands on the porch with his hands in his pockets, listening. The stage is warmly lit, highlighting the homey set with vintage furniture and patterned wallpaper.
Rob McClure, Michael Vanhevel, and Elva Mai Hoover in Over The River and Through The Woods, Drayton Entertainment, 2025 Season. Directed by Alex Mustakas; Set Design by David Antscherl; Costume Design by Alex Amini; Lighting Design by Lyle Franklin; Stage Manager Charles Russell; Assistant Stage Manager Paula Stewart.
 In this image from Over The River and Through The Woods, a comedic moment on stage in a cozy living room set. A man in a striped dress shirt, tie, and khakis stands with his arms outstretched and an exaggerated, puzzled expression. A woman in a warm-toned sweater offers him a plate with a sandwich. In the background, an older man sits in a floral armchair watching the interaction. The scene is warmly lit, emphasizing the playful family atmosphere.
Company in Over The River and Through The Woods, Drayton Entertainment, 2025 Season. Directed by Alex Mustakas; Set Design by David Antscherl; Costume Design by Alex Amini; Lighting Design by Lyle Franklin; Stage Manager Charles Russell; Assistant Stage Manager Paula Stewart.
 In this image from Over The River and Through The Woods, a lively theatre scene set in a cozy living room. Five actors are mid-action: an older man and woman on the left gesture animatedly; a younger man in a dress shirt and tie speaks earnestly to an older woman in a floral dress and cardigan; an older man in a checkered shirt and maroon sweater vest stands apart to the right, looking concerned. The set features patterned wallpaper, vintage furniture, and warm lighting, creating a homelike, emotional atmosphere.
Michael Vanhevel and Emily Lukasik in Over The River and Through The Woods, Drayton Entertainment, 2025 Season. Directed by Alex Mustakas; Set Design by David Antscherl; Costume Design by Alex Amini; Lighting Design by Lyle Franklin; Stage Manager Charles Russell; Assistant Stage Manager Paula Stewart.
 In this image from Over The River and Through The Woods, a lighthearted theatre scene in a cozy living room set. A young man in a pink plaid shirt and khakis looks at a smiling young woman in a blue patterned dress and purple top, who stands shyly with her arms crossed and a brown purse over her shoulder. The background features vintage furniture, patterned wallpaper, and warm lighting, creating a cheerful, homey atmosphere.
Company in Over The River and Through The Woods, Drayton Entertainment, 2025 Season. Directed by Alex Mustakas; Set Design by David Antscherl; Costume Design by Alex Amini; Lighting Design by Lyle Franklin; Stage Manager Charles Russell; Assistant Stage Manager Paula Stewart.
 In this image from Over The River and Through The Woods, a joyful theatre scene set in a cozy living room. An older man stands triumphantly with his fists raised, while two older women, a young man, and another older man sit on floral couches, laughing and reacting. One woman clutches a gift, and the man on the right inspects a pair of socks. The warm, vintage set features patterned wallpaper, a family portrait, and retro furniture, creating a lively, heartwarming atmosphere.
Michael Vanhevel and Costin Manu in Over The River and Through The Woods, Drayton Entertainment, 2025 Season. Directed by Alex Mustakas; Set Design by David Antscherl; Costume Design by Alex Amini; Lighting Design by Lyle Franklin; Stage Manager Charles Russell; Assistant Stage Manager Paula Stewart.
 In this image from Over The River and Through The Woods, a nighttime theatre scene on a front porch. A young man in a dark sweater with white stripes listens intently as an older man in a patterned vest and tropical shirt points and smiles warmly. The porch set features a red door, white railing, and soft blue lighting, creating an intimate, heartfelt atmosphere.

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