In Prince Edward County, for the month of August, guests will be able to sip a glass, wander among the vines and enjoy an evening’s entertainment all in one. Festival Players presents The Ballad of Weedy Peetstraw at Rosehall Run Vineyards in Wellington from August 2nd to 27th, 2011. (Note an early start time of 6:30pm for evening shows.

Described as part bluegrass and part opera this witty, darkly comedic retelling of the Faust legend is sure to delight audiences young and old. The Ballad of Weedy Peetstraw, by Peter Anderson and John Millard, tells the story of a young man who sells his soul to the devil to play the banjo.

“The play is such fun. Brilliant music and a great story. It’s epic. And magical. Out at Rosehall Run, under the grand tent…it’s a recipe for a lovely experience indeed,” says Artistic Director Sarah Phillips.

Estelle Shook, who helmed the Caravan Farm Theatre in Armstrong, BC, where the show premiered years ago, directs a talented cast. Weedy and Jeeva, the young lovers at the center of the story, are played by Ryan Reid (Citadel Theatre, Arts Club, Playhouse Theatre) and Rebecca Auerbach (Theatre Calgary, Alberta Theatre Projects, Charlottetown/Blyth/Drayton Festivals). Joining them in the cast are Greg Campbell (Theatre Passe Muraille, Theatre Aquarius, Sudbury Theatre Centre) as the Reverend Jacob Ladder, Randi Helmers (National Arts Centre, Stratford, Soulpepper) as Weedy’s mother Hazel, and Paul Rainville (Manitoba Theatre Centre, National Arts Centre, Canadian Stage) as the devil’s agent, Mister Fleas. Composer, music director and multi-talented musician John Millard leads the band and is joined by the brilliant Rob Clutton and Rick Hyslop.

For ticket and schedule information about the 2011 season call 613.471.1991/1.866.584.1991 or buy online at www.countytix.ca.

*Photo by Michael Grills Photography