The wheels on the bus will turn out comedy this October at the Port Theatre.
The Number 14, a show about the antics and daily interaction of passengers on a bus route, rolls into Nanaimo’s Port Theatre on Saturday (Oct. 6) for a 7:30 p.m. show. The laughs continue Sunday (Oct 7) during a matinee at 2:30 p.m.
The Nanaimo performance is part of the theatre company’s national tour celebrating the 20th anniversary of entertaining people around the world.
Sarah Rodgers, an actress who has been involved in the production since it launched in 1992, said the comedy transcends language barriers because people understand the humour even if they don’t understand the words.
“It’s like bust your guts funny. You go to the show and know you are going to laugh and laugh until you cry,” said Rodgers.
The six performers will take audience members through the various situations and as different characters on the bus. The characters are also brought to life through crafted masks designed by Melody Anderson.
The show is based on a busy Vancouver bus route, the No. 14, which ran from the richest neighbourhood in the city to the poorest.
It meant people from all walks of life would sit next to each other and interact during the daily route.
People will meet businessmen, little old ladies, children and various other passengers who board the bus.
“They are true to life characters and every scene is different and has lots of heart and love and comedy,” said Rodgers.
The Number 14 is Saturday (Oct. 6) at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday (Oct. 7) at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $60/ $55 for members and groups.
People can purchase tickets online at www.porttheatre.com, by calling 250-754-8550 or at the Port Theatre ticket office at 125 Front St.