The Livery Theatre Presents a Heartwarming Comedy This February, Perfect for Date Night

Art James who plays Michael Minetti (left) with Susan Carradine who plays Lily Harrison at rehearsal for Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks at The Livery in Goderich.

The historic Livery Theatre will transform into a Florida beachfront condo this February, as the Goderich Little Theatre (GLT) presents its latest production, Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks.

Local stage veterans Susan Carradine and Art James will bring Richard Alfieri’s celebrated play to life in the heart of Goderich.

Brian Makcrow steps into the director’s chair for the first time. While Makcrow has been involved in various theatrical capacities, Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks serves as his directorial debut for a full-length production.

Makcrow is focusing on the human heartbeat of the script, the vulnerability that lies beneath the comedic bickering.

“It’s a play about stripping aways masks,” explained Makcrow.

“Through the rhythm of the dance, these two characters reveal their secrets, fears and ultimate need for connection.”

The play centres on Lily Harrison (played by Carradine), a formidable retiree living in a Florida condo who hires a private dance instructor to add some flair to her life.

What she gets is Michael Minetti (played by James), an acerbic, younger New Yorker with a sharp tongue and a hidden heart.

The chemistry between Carradine and James brings a rich, authentic depth to a script that balances sharp-witted bickering with profound emotional moments.

Known for their commanding stage presence and natural rapport, the pair will navigate a story that uses the Swing, Tango, Waltz, Foxtrot and Cha-Cha as a backdrop for an evolving, unlikely friendship.

Ensuring the cast hits every beat is choreographer Helen Gianoulis, who has been working closely with the actors to master the diverse range of styles that serve as the heartbeat of the play.

Mary Bryant has taken on the role of stage manager, and with Judy Ward as her assistance stage manager, this dynamic duo will continue to keep everything running smoothly right to the end of production.

Behind the scenes, GLT has an incredible team that volunteers hours of their time to ensuring there is a great production. From set building and decorating to lighting and sound or wardrobe, props or front of house volunteers, they are all working tirelessly to make sure the audience enjoys top quality theatre in Goderich.

Audiences can expect a mix of vibrant choreography and poignant drama, all within the intimate, historic setting of the Livery. Perfect for a date night or a wonderful evening out with friends.

Speaking of date night, GLT has a special Valentine’s Dinner Theatre Experience on Saturday, February 14. This is a wonderful dinner catered by Steve and Mary’s on The Square. For details on the Valentine’s Dinner, please check out thelivery.ca

Tickets for Valentine’s Day are extremely limited and can only be purchased by contacting Cara at cara@thelivery.ca or by calling 519-524-6262.

Tickets for all other performances can be purchased on the website or at the box office, Tuesdays and Fridays 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. and Wednesdays and Thursday s from 2 p.m. until 4:30 p.m.

The theatre’s popular ‘pay what you will’ preview night is Wednesday, February 11 at 8 p.m.

Regular performances are February 12-14, and February 19-20 at 8 p.m. and February 15, February 21 and February 22 at 2 p.m.

BMR Leis Lumber is the Production Sponsor for Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks, and The Rotary Club of Goderich is the 2025/2026 Season Sponsor.