The Wolves
Written by Sarah Delappe
Directed by Laurel Lepine
Oct. 18 - 26, 2024
University Theatre, University of Calgary
The Wolves is the story about a girls’ U17, Tier 1 soccer team living in the midwestern United States. Nominated in 2017 for a Pulitzer Prize in Drama, The Wolves is a comedy/drama filled with humour and pathos displaying each girl’s journey from adolescence into the resiliency and circle of womanhood.
Audience Advisory
Strong Language
THE VIDEOTAPING OR MAKING OF ELECTRONIC OR OTHER AUDIO AND/OR VISUAL RECORDINGS OF THIS PRODUCTION AND DISTRIBUTING RECORDINGS OR STREAMS IN ANY MEDIUM, INCLUDING THE INTERNET, IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED, A VIOLATION OF THE AUTHOR(S)’S RIGHTS AND ACTIONABLE UNDER UNITED STATES COPYRIGHT LAW. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT: https://concordtheatricals.com/resources/protecting-artists
by Sarah DeLappe
Directed by Laurel Lepine
Designed by Scott Reid and Piper Flavel
“The Wolves” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.com
World premiere produced by The Playwrights Realm (Katherine Kovner, Artistic
Director | Roberta Pereira, Producing Director) on September 8, 2016 and
remounted on December 5, 2016 by special arrangement with Scott Rudin and Eli Bush.
Originally presented by New York Stage and Film and Vassar in the Powerhouse
Season, Summer 2016.
Playwrights Horizons Theater School produced a workshop of The Wolves in 2015 in association with Clubbed Thumb, where the play had been developed
previously.
Winner of the 2016 Sky Cooper New American Play Prize at Marin Theatre Company, Mill Valley, CA
Jasson Minadakis, Artistic Director; Keri Kellerman, Managing Director
Produced by Lincoln Center Theater,
New York City, 2017
Performance Schedule
Friday, October 18 - 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, October 19 - 7:30 p.m.
Tuesday, October 22 - 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, October 23 - 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, October 24 - 7:30 p.m.
Friday, October 25 - 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, October 26 - 7:30 p.m.
Tickets
$22 (adults) /$17 (students/seniors)
Part of Claim Your Seat program. UCalgary students can request their FREE ticket online or in-person at the box office. UCalgary alumni, employees and emeriti receive 50% off for themselves and one guest.
L. Lepine
It’s 8 am on a Saturday and instead of sleeping in, my daughter Sarah and I are at the Viper’s Dome for her soccer practice. Parents perch on benches drinking coffee from their “to go” mugs and chattering about the lives of their teenage daughters. It’s the girl in me who wants to belong to this group of soccer moms. As the artsy mom, I am living through my daughter’s journey as a competitive tier 1 soccer player. So, this is what it’s like being on a team: they push themselves physically week after week at practices and games in the pursuit of an athletic skill while we parents sit in the stands, cheering and hoping for a win or the car ride home is going to be quiet. Sprained ankles, concussions and other aches and pains are the daily risk leading to the all-important reward of winning. It is evident all over the world today that sport has the power to bring people together and inspire us with congenial competition. Sarah DeLappe’s play The Wolves is symbolic of this power to triumph.
In her forward to the play, DeLappe quotes Gertrude Stein, 20th century American writer and Modernist, We are all the same age inside. It is a shared human condition to pass through the teenage years and forge the often awkward, exhilarating and even painful path into adulthood. Sometimes the most important question is the most basic - we want to know that we are “normal”. As teens we feel social anxiety, fear that we won’t be chosen or live up to our potential along with a growing awareness of what is wrong and unjust in the adult world we are about to become part of. DeLappe creates sharp, humorous dialogue with a strong, feminist voice. The turf is a safe place for the Wolves to “talk it out” during their warm-up before each weekly game. The setting is symbolic of centuries of circles where women could share their private thoughts. DeLappe’s midwestern American, middle-class characters comically represent how privilege often breeds ignorance and misunderstanding of those who they view as being different or the other. It isn’t until these young characters are tested by a tragedy closer to home that they must transform and rely on the pack for resilience.
It was a pleasure working with this ensemble of strong and talented young women. A special thanks goes to my Advisor Vanessa Porteous whose wisdom and help on this project was invaluable. The Wolves has allowed me to reflect on the joys and struggles of my own teen years as well as those of my three grown children Madi, Sam and Sarah. It reminds me of the power of relationships to heal and nurture resilience. If we could all play together, in sport or otherwise, and accept each other for what we bring to the circle, what a better world it would be.
Sophia (They/She) is a fourth-year student at the University of Calgary, pursuing a BFA in drama. They have dedicated many years to the practice of theatre and are consistently ready to jump into the unknown when working on new projects. Sophia's goal in the workspace is to create an environment where all feel free to play and explore with each other. If they’re not reviewing their lines in aggressive thought, you can find Sophia attempting to make someone laugh, doodling in their notes, or sipping on some sweet sweet ice tea. Being a part of the Wolves has been such an amazing team-building experience, and they can't wait to share all the hard work that has been put into the show!
Gabriëlle Vos de Wael (she/her) is currently in her third year of Drama/Mathematics. When she isn’t at school cramming lines or desperately trying to solve a math equation, Gabriëlle loves to spend time with her two horses - Fenesse and James Joyce. Gabriëlle loves the theatre because tonight we will tell a story that will never be told the same way again. Gabriëlle hopes that you enjoy watching the show as much as she enjoyed creating it! Past productions include Where Have All the Witches Gone, Shakespeare in Love, Absence, Lights Out, Argonautika, and Without Rule of Law.
Lexi Plante (she/her) is a fifth-year undergraduate student working toward a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Drama with a focus in acting. Her most recent performances include Pink directed by Margarita Rebetskaya, the University’s mainstage production, Lights Out directed by Bruce Barton, The Green Key directed by Saeid Asgarian, and the SCPA Alchemy Festival’s Here We Go directed by Cali Sproule and as well as other collaborative works within the University of Calgary. She has dabbled in some backstage work and has found all areas of the theatre a delight to partake in. She enjoys spending time in all forms of fine art, from acting to drawing, and is thrilled about any chance to advance these skills. She is very grateful for this opportunity to explore such intensity and depth that we see transpire in Laurel Lepine’s rendition ofThe Wolves and is appreciative of the trust, the guidance, but also the freedom throughout the process that has helped her grow as an actor.
Jordan (She/Her) is a fifth year student at the University of Calgary pursuing a BFA in Drama. She has a love of acting, singing, writing, and many other arts. She is always happy to get the opportunity to test her skills and collaborate with others. After performing in the University of Calgary’s production of Shakeseare in Love last year, Jordan wants to continue exploring her love for theatre, now working for the first time off the stage and behind the scenes as Assistant Stage Manager. She is so excited to be working on The Wolves and cannot wait for you all to see it!
Sarbkali Hayer (she/her) is a Sikh, Punjabi artist currently completing a BFA in drama at the University of Calgary. Her recent projects include: Magnetic Bodies with Downstage Theatre (directed by Clare Preuss and Bianca Miranda) as well as A Monster Calls (directed by Steven Conde), Argonautika (directed by Randi Edmundson), and The Bus Stop (directed by Fangzheng Nick Wang). Kali is drawn to theatre because it offers her the chance to create beautiful art and be the representation she always wished to see growing up. She is especially excited to combine her passion for acting and her background in kinesiology/sport in this upcoming production of The Wolves directed by Laurel Lepine. Kali is grateful for this opportunity and for the ongoing support of her fellow castmates, friends, and family. She believes a lot of sweat, tears, and love has been put into this show so she’s excited for audience members to check it out!
Nikhat Saheb (she/her) is a fourth-year Drama/Education student at the University of Calgary. Her most recent productions include; Magnetic Bodies facilitated by Clare Preuss and Bianca Miranda, Lights Out directed by Bruce Barton and A Monster Calls directed by Steven Conde. Nikhat’s passion for theatre comes from her love of community building and the unpredictability of live storytelling. As a biracial artist she strives to connect her creativity with her Fijian and Filipino roots. Nikhat enjoys experimenting with movement and collaborating with new people. On a day off she enjoys lying in bed with mint chocolate ice cream and snuggling with her cat Coco. Nikhat is grateful to be given the opportunity to expand on her skills and work with the incredible cast and crew of The Wolves. She hopes you enjoy the show!
Maysan Kawash (she/her) is currently in her second year, pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Drama at the University of Calgary. She has a strong passion for the performing arts, motivated by the challenge and excitement of live storytelling. When she was only 6, she directed, choreographed, produced, and starred in the greatest theatre performance the world has ever seen... in her bedroom... for her stuffed animals. Her most recent performances include The Bear, and Talking To Your Kids About Guns with the University of Calgary's 2023 Alchemy Festival. Being a part of The Wolves has been an incredible journey, and she’s eager to share its depth and energy with audiences. Special thanks to her cast-mates, family, and friends for all of their support!
Devyn (She/Her) is a fourth year student at the University of Calgary pursuing a dual Drama/Education degree. She hopes to teach at a secondary school level to share her passion for the arts with the younger generations. Although she participated in several plays and musicals throughout her high school career, this is her first time working on a show with the University! She is so grateful for the opportunity to work with such an amazing director, cast, and crew to bring this powerful script to life. She feels a strong connection to her character’s story and feels honoured to explore a role that represents the resilience of individuals struggling with their mental health. Outside of rehearsal, Devyn will likely be found yapping, napping, playing volleyball, or screaming to music in her car. She thanks her family for their love and endless support; and thanks YOU for coming to the show!
Elizabeth (she/her) is a fifth-year undergraduate student at the University of Calgary, completing her BFA Degree in Drama. Her most recent projects include the University of Calgary's mainstage productions of Lights Out, Shakespeare In Love (ASM), Argonautika (ASM), Much Ado About Nothing and the SCPA Alchemy Festival's Illegal Entry (SM) and Danza De Los Viejitos (SM). Throughout her degree, Elizabeth has been exploring her love for both performance and technical theatre. Whether she is sharing her craft onstage or working behind the scenes in an endless pile of paperwork, she finds herself feeling fulfilled and connected to the work and the people who surround her. She is very grateful for this opportunity to be apart of The Wolves team and further develop her skills to continue learning. She is very proud of the cast and crew for their positive energy, acceptance and commitment to this show! GO WOLVES GO!
Raine Davis (she/her) is a Filipino-Canadian student in her third year pursuing a BSc in Biological Sciences with a minor in Drama. She has always been involved in theatrical arts, performing in productions and high school plays, and helping with technical theatre. However, she never expected that listing 'special skills: soccer' on her fine arts resume would actually come in handy. As her first time in a Mainstage production, Raine is excited to be a part of The Wolves directed by Laurel Lepine and is extremely grateful for the opportunity to work with such talented and friendly actors and crew. During her free time, Raine enjoys drawing digitally, playing the piano, exploring the city, baking, napping, and procrastinating. Raine is dedicated to creating passionate work that reflects her interests and would love to share with you all this incredible journey!
Grace de Jong is currently completing her BFA at the University of Calgary. You may have seen her recently in Where Have All the Witches Gone at Calgary’s Fringe Festival directed by Margarita Rebetskaya. She is appreciative of the opportunity and ability to explore and dive into the work of this show facilitated by Laurel Lapine. She is always striving to push herself and create an environment in the rehearsal space that people feel empowered to do the same. If she’s not running lines, she’s reading, watching, or creating stories, and she is excited to share the story of The Wolves.
Sarah Innes (she/her) is a third-year student at the University of Calgary pursuing a BFA in Drama with a Creative Writing certificate. Earlier this year, Sarah had the opportunity to perform at Sage Theatre’s Ignite Festival in Tea Parties With Friends; she was also in the Final Chorus during the 2024 Alchemy Festival. Sarah is the current Executive Producer of Nickel and Dime Theatre, as well as the Head of Events for the Drama Undergraduate Society. She is focused on creating art that allows people to connect in electric and empathetic ways. She is ecstatic to be part of The Wolves!
Credits
-
Staff
Director – BRUCE BARTON
Drama Division Lead and Producer – PETER BALKWILL
Venue Business Administrator – ABIR BACHIR
Academic Programs Specialist – CONSTANTINA CALDIS ROBERTS
Academic Programs Specialist – ROSABEL CHOI
Front of House Manager – LIZZY EVASHKEVICH
Performance and Artist Coordinator – ALIDA LOWE
Administrative Assistant – ALEXANDRA LYONS
Department Operations Manager – MARY LOU MENDYK
Booking Administrator – CATHERINE ROULEAU -
Artistic Team
Playwright – SARAH DELAPPE
Director – LAUREL LEPINE
Set, Costume, and Lighting Designer – SCOTT REID
Sound Designer – PIPER FLAVEL
Stage Manager – ELIZABETH HOUGHTON
Assistant Stage Manager - JORDAN BURRON
Assistant Stage Manager – JORDAN BURRON
Thesis Supervisor – VANESSA PORTEOUS
Soccer Clinician - SARAH JONES
Intimacy Coach - JOHN KNIGHT -
Production Team
Production Team Production Manager – ANDREW NORTH
Properties Master – CELINA BAHARALLY
Scenic Carpentry – SCOTT FREEMAN
Costume Supervisor – ROBERT LAFLAMME
Technical Supervisor – TREVOR MCDONALD
Lighting Technician – JASON SCHWARZ
Stage Technician– IAN WILSON
Hang, Focus, and Install Crew – JUAN ASIN-BERTI, NAKOTA ALEXIS CARDINAL, BRAYDEN LACHAMBRE RENKAS
Marketing Team – ABIGAIL MONARREZ, MALAK ABDELBAKY
Lighting Board Operator – JASON CABUENOS
Sound Board Operator – AUGUSTA LANDRY
Backstage Crew – DOMINICK BROWN, SUNNY FAUST
Special Thanks
CHRISTINE BRUBAKER
MC College (Hair and Makeup) – HEATHER CHRISTMAS
Vipers Dome – EVA HASELL
Soccer Clinician – SARAH JOHNS