Surrey, British Columbia is set to host a poignant and often funny exploration of long-term love with the upcoming production of The Golden Anniversaries, a play by Mark Crawford. The comedy-drama, presented by the Arts Club Theatre Company, will run at the Surrey Arts Centre’s Main Stage from February 25 to March 7, as part of a broader 12-city tour across British Columbia. This production promises a relatable look at the complexities of marriage, memory, and enduring relationships, offering audiences a chance to reflect on their own connections.
The story centers on Glen and Sandy Golden, a couple celebrating – or attempting to celebrate – their 50th wedding anniversary. What begins as a planned milestone celebration takes an unexpected turn when Sandy cancels the party and asks Glen to leave, forcing them to confront the realities of their life together. Actors Peter Anderson and Eileen Barrett will bring the Goldens to life, portraying a couple who have consistently marked their anniversaries with a romantic getaway to the same cottage, a tradition now facing a significant challenge.
A Playwright Known for Relatable Stories
Mark Crawford, the playwright behind The Golden Anniversaries, has garnered a reputation for capturing “the humour and emotional depth in everyday life with his sharp dialogue and witty writing,” according to Ashlie Corcoran, artistic director of the Vancouver-based Arts Club Theatre Company. Archyde reports that Crawford’s ability to connect with audiences through authentic storytelling has made him a familiar voice in Canadian theatre.
Crawford’s previous works, including Bed and Breakfast and The Birds and the Bees, have also been successfully produced by the Arts Club, demonstrating his knack for creating engaging and relatable narratives. The success of these earlier plays suggests a strong existing audience for Crawford’s work in British Columbia, and particularly within the Arts Club’s touring circuit.
Beyond the Performance: Accessibility and Community Engagement
The Arts Club Theatre Company production, directed by Arthi Chandra, isn’t just offering performances; it’s also incorporating several initiatives to broaden accessibility and community engagement. A “Paint the Play” matinee on February 28 offers childcare for children aged 6-11 whereas parents enjoy the show. A post-show chat with the actors is scheduled for March 5, providing audience members with a chance to delve deeper into the play’s themes and characters. A Vocal-Eye audio description will be available for patrons who are blind or partially sighted during the March 7 performance at 4 p.m.
Tickets for the Surrey performances range from $29 to $55, depending on seating zone, and are available for purchase at purchase.surrey.ca or by calling 604-501-5580.
Part of a Larger Touring Series
The Golden Anniversaries marks the final installment in the Arts Club’s “On Tour” series for the 2025-2026 season. The series began with You used to call me Marie…, a Métis love story staged in October, and continued with Mieko Ouchi’s road-trip comedy, Burning Mom, in January. These productions, staged in partnership with Surrey Civic Theatres, demonstrate a commitment to bringing Canadian stories to communities across British Columbia.
The Arts Club’s touring initiative aims to reach audiences beyond the confines of Vancouver’s theatre scene, fostering a wider appreciation for Canadian playwrights and performers. The selection of all-Canadian plays for this tour underscores a dedication to showcasing the country’s diverse voices and narratives.
As The Golden Anniversaries prepares to open in Surrey, audiences can anticipate a moving and humorous exploration of love, commitment, and the challenges of navigating a lifetime together. The play’s themes of aging, memory, and the enduring power of relationships are likely to resonate with viewers of all ages. Following its run in Surrey, the production will continue its tour across British Columbia, bringing Crawford’s insightful story to new audiences.
The Arts Club Theatre Company will announce its 2026-2027 season plans in the spring. For updates and further information, visit the Arts Club’s website.
What are your thoughts on the themes explored in The Golden Anniversaries? Share your comments below and let us know if you plan to attend a performance.
