ABOUT
125 years ago, the true tale of gold in the Canadian Klondike swept across the world, igniting Victorian society with Gold Fever. Folks from all walks of life converged from far and wide, heading to the land of gold; Dawson City, Yukon. The lure of immense wealth and fame beckoned over 100,000 hopefuls to the start of the Chilkoot Trail, a daunting and grueling path that could only be traversed on foot. Out of those who sought their fortune, fewer than 4,000 struck gold, with mere hundreds finding enough to make it rich. Yet, something in the northern air made the slim chance of hitting pay-dirt worth any sacrifice.
In Fool’s Gold the Musical, travel back to 1898 and experience the journey of two brothers, Henry and Thomas Montrose. Heirs to generational wealth, they are driven to the Klondike by the allure of pride and independent fortune. As they embark on their adventure toward the legendary city, their paths intertwine with Charlotte Parker, a spirited Can-can dancer whose quick wit and unwavering independence become their only chance through the trials of the Yukon. Together, they navigate the iconic trail, braving the elements and facing demanding physical and mental challenges with every step.
Written and composed by a daughter-father duo, the world premiere of Fool’s Gold the Musical is filled with everything from high-energy boot-stomping numbers to raw, intimate performances. Featuring twelve original songs with a folk/ragtime/bluegrass feel, a cast of ten stellar local Edmonton actors, stunning choreography and costuming, and at its core, a truly captivating story, Fool’s Gold promises to take you on an unforgettable journey of discovery, redemption, and the enduring pursuit of the human spirit.
A Note From the PLAYWRIGHT
In 2012, I was lucky enough to experience the real rush of the Klondike first hand. At 10 years old, my parents, little brother and I hiked the 53 km trail through the mountains from the ghost town of Dyea, Alaska to Lake Bennett, British Columbia, Canada. Back then, as much as the views were unforgettable, I didn’t realize the full significance and history - and could have never predicted the impact this trail would have on my life.
me at ten
For five days straight, we hiked with everything we needed on our backs. I have a few very specific memories from getting to experience it first hand. The remains of the hotels and saloons, and the 114 year old litter that lined the path. Hiking the Golden Staircase and my dad encouraging me as I reached false summit after false summit. Finally making it to the top of the pass and seeing everything. Sliding down in the snow on the other side. The best beef stew, still to this day, I ever had, served homemade and fresh at Lake Bennett.
hiking the chilkoot trail
We then stayed an accidental seven days in Dawson City after our car broke down and got to truly experience their community for a short period of time. Although a popular tourist destination, Dawson City is a small town, filled with history and legends, (look up the Sour Toe Cocktail.)
For the years that followed, it was occasionally brought up as an interesting idea that we would talk about but never actually sit down and write. Until I did.
Henry, Thomas, and Charlotte truly feel like friends of mine at this point. I know their motivations, their weaknesses, their childhoods, even what happens after what we see in the show. To me, their stories have become so full I often forget they aren’t “real”.
This show is my heart and I have been holding it close to me for so long, but I am now ready to share it with the world. I believe in it and hope you do as well.
Thank you for letting me “Chase the Dream”.
Daphne Charrois
the cast
Aidan Spila is an Edmonton-based theatre artist and 2020 MacEwan Music Theatre graduate. He has been performing since he appeared as a youth cast member in A Christmas Carol during the Citadel Theatre’s 2013-2014 season. Since then he has been involved with a variety of productions, some of which include Pippin, Follies, Spring Awakening, and The Crucible. He has also been a performer since 2019 and now Assistant Director with Elmtree Theatre’s Urban Wildlife Project, a multi-disciplinary research project exploring new methodology in the production of theatre for very young audiences (1-5 years). Most recently Aidan has appeared as Walter Hobbs in St. Albert Children’s Theatre’s 2023 production of Elf the Musical, and has begun to delve into film and improv.
Born in Edmonton, Aidan has long been a proponent privately and publicly of the arts scene in his hometown, and is thrilled to premiere Fool’s Gold at the 2024 Edmonton Fringe Festival. Besides his involvement with theatre, Aidan is also a bartender, amateur hockey player, DND player, karaoke fanatic, and Edmonton Oilers fan.
Aidan Spila
Shane Watson, a recent transplant to the Edmonton area, brings with him a wealth of talent and a heart of gold. Hailing from Pennsylvania, USA, Shane discovered his passion for the arts early on. After honing his skills, he made his way to New York City, where he graduated from the prestigious American Musical & Dramatic Academy in 2021, marking the beginning of his professional journey.
With a repertoire that spans from the whimsical SpongeBob SquarePants to the enchanting Lysander in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Shane's versatility as a classically trained actor knows no bounds. Venturing beyond the stage, Shane has also made his mark on the screen with appearances in acclaimed shows like Evil Lives Here and the Emmy-winning hit The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. His foray into television and film acting speaks volumes of his aspirations to diversify his craft and explore new horizons.
Now, Shane finds himself eagerly anticipating his role in Fool’s Gold, brimming with excitement as he collaborates with fellow artists to bring the production to life. Grateful for the unwavering support of his friends, family, and partner, Shane remains grounded in his pursuit of artistic excellence and looks forward to the adventures that lie ahead in his career.
Shane Watson
Daphne Charrois is a proud bilingual queer artist, raised in Canada and based in amiskwacîwâskahikan (Edmonton). For the past five years, she has been writing and composing Fool’s Gold the Musical and cannot believe it is finally coming to life!
She has travelled all over the world, performing Pop, Rock, Country, Jazz, Musical Theatre, and original songs. Her debut single, ‘Don't Call Me Baby’ premiered globally and is now available on all platforms. Written by Daphne Charrois & composed by Dan Charrois, it is a song close to her heart. She just finished her second contract overseas as a Lead Vocalist on AIDA Cruises, where she performed everything from Musical Theatre to Queen, Abba, and classic hits.
Daphne graduated from The American Musical and Dramatic Academy in NYC where she earned her certificate in The Musical Theatre Integrated Program. She has also spent the past two years privately training with Broadway’s Caissie Levy. Her recent credits include Emma in The Prom with NUOVA Vocal Arts, Janet in The Drowsy Chaperone at the Citadel Theatre and Maria in The Sound of Music at Morinville Community Cultural Centre. Daphne is a two-time Cappies Lead Actress in a Musical winner and a two time Mic Award winner.
Instagram: @thedaphneofficial | daphnecharrois.com
Daphne Charrois
Sarah Kyle is brand new to the city and excited to be apart of the show! She moved all the way here from Peace River and is excited to dive into the Edmonton theatre community. She has been doing local theatre since she was six years old!
She started out as “Cheerleader #36” in High School Musical Jr. and through the years growing as a performer she made her way from the children’s productions to the adult shows in Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder and more! She has also competed in local and provincial Music festivals taking home a few first place titles her senior year at provincials under guidance from her vocal teacher Donna Brunham. Sarah would like to say thanks you to all of her friends and Mom for supporting her passions and being her #1 fans always! She cannot wait to take on the role of Dove and give those gold miners somethin to talk about!
Sarah Kyle
Hannah Boulay
Hannah Boulay is absolutely buzzing with excitement to be a part of the Fool’s Gold premiere. Her joy is palpable as she eagerly anticipates her first Fringe Festival and the opportunity for everyone to witness this new musical!
Last summer, Hannah embarked on a transformative journey at The New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts, where she honed her skills in musical theatre. Upon her return to Edmonton, she commenced her first year at Grant MacEwan University, furthering her studies in this field. Throughout this year, Hannah has been fortunate to learn from a multitude of talented teachers and performers. She is deeply grateful to all these remarkable individuals who have played a pivotal role in her journey. You might have caught a glimpse of her in Nuova Vocal Arts, The Prom, or White Christmas this past spring/winter. Her other notable credits include Sandy Cheeks in SpongeBob The Musical, Niki Harris in Curtains (SGCHS), and Florence Williams in The Curious Savage (Horizon Players).
Hannah is deeply appreciative of the dedicated and talented cast and crew she is fortunate to be surrounded by. She sincerely hopes that you all thoroughly enjoy the show!
John Avila is excited to make his Fringe Festival debut with this amazing project and to work with such a talented cast. He wants to thank the cast and creative for the opportunity to tell this story and he hopes that everyone enjoys the show!
In the fall, John will be starting in the Grant MacEwan University BFA program. He is currently dedicated to furthering his craft through both singing and dance lessons.
His most recent credits are Danny Zuko in Grease (EMT) and Roger Davis in Rent! (ELOPE). He looks forward to sharing this wonderful story with everyone!
John Avila
Bhéy Pastolero, originally from the Philippines, is an emerging artist based in Edmonton. She received her training in Theatre Arts from MacEwan University in 2021. She is so thrilled to be making her debut at the Fringe Theatre Festival with the Light In The Attic Productions this year.
Select credits: Cinderella, One-Person Hansel & Gretel (Alberta Musical Theatre Company); Urinetown, Into The Woods (MacEwan University). Outside of theatre, she enjoys giving time on her small business, Bedazzled Venus (IG: @bedazzledvenus), where she focuses on resin and clay charms. Bhéy would like to give her shoutout and gratitude to God, her fiancé, family, and friends for their support since day one. Mabuhay!
Facebook page: Bhéy | Instagram: @bheypastolero
Bhéy Pastolero
Stefan Sikanja is a European-born film and theatre actor based in Edmonton, Alberta. He is a graduate of the Concordia University of Edmonton Business Management program as well as a graduate of the Citadel Theatre Young Company 2021/22 program. He has been fortunate to work with many different companies and groups across both film and theatre such as The Citadel Theatre, Festival Players, Stage Eaters Theatre, NextFest, Higher Universe Productions, and The Stunt Garage. Stefan has gotten training across three separate post-secondary fine arts programs including the U of A, MacEwan University, and Concordia University.
Select theatre credits include Gaston in Beauty and the Beast and Fenris Ulf in Narnia: The Musical (Festival Players), Strength in Everyman (CUE Fine Arts), Ensemble in Working: The Musical (Citadel Theatre), Nick in The Prom, Mr. Erlanson in A Little Night Music, and Frederick Barrett in Titanic: The Musical (Nuova Vocal Arts). This will mark is Edmonton Fringe debut and he is excited to be a part of the first cast bringing Fool’s Gold to life! He would like to thank his friends and family for their continuous support through his journey.
Stefan Sikanja
Mana Middleton has just completed her first year as a Music Theater Performance major at MacEwan University. She recently graduated from Victoria School of the Arts and has had the privilege to train with the Citadel Theater’s Young Company. Mana has also trained in Ukrainian dance at Shumka and Edmonton School of Ukrainian Dance (ESUD) and currently teaches musical theatre classes at J’Adore Dance Studio.
Select credits include The Prom (Opera NUOVA), Legally Blonde (Victoria School), Spamalot (Victoria School), and Working a Musical (Citadel Theatre Young Company). Mana is so excited to be part of the world premiere of Fool’s Gold at the Fringe Festival!
Mana Middleton
Connor Foy is originally from Fort McMurray and has been in love with musical theatre and performing since he was young. He chose to leave up north for his love and came to Edmonton to persure his passion.
He studied at GrantMacEwan musical theatre program in 2019. He has been in such as Austentatious, Kiss Me Kate, Guys and Dolls 9 to 5 and Midsummer Night's Dream. He has been dancing for 10 years and been doing stage combat for 3 years now.
Connor is so excited to be performing this show with such an amazing talented. He hopes you enjoy the show and leave feeling the gold rush fever!
Connor Foy
MEDIA
CREATIVE TEAM
Director
VANESSA KING
Vanessa King is an exceptionally talented theatre director, renowned for her remarkable body of work spanning over two decades. With a distinguished portfolio boasting more than 15 mainstage musical productions, Vanessa has firmly established herself as a visionary force in the theatre. Her directorial credits include iconic productions such as The Sound of Music, Legally Blonde, Newsies, Matilda, Pirates of Penzance and Little Shop of Horrors, among many others. Each of her shows consistently garners widespread acclaim and sells out performances, cementing Vanessa's reputation for delivering consistent professionalism and artistic excellence.
Vanessa's journey in theatre began with a foundation rooted in education and passion for the dramatic arts. She pursued her academic endeavours at the University of Alberta, where she earned a Bachelor of Education with a major in Drama and a minor in English. Armed with a solid academic background and a fervent dedication to her craft, Vanessa pursued her love of teaching and directing hand in hand.
Stage Manager
sarah Jackson
Sarah Jackson is a seasoned stage manager and creative who is proud to reside in Edmonton or amiskwacîwâskahikan. While she is a stage manager by night, Sarah takes great passion in her day job with Explore Edmonton. There, Sarah writes and produces content directed at driving visitation to the city while fostering community in collaboration with local partners.
Sarah is no newbie to the theatre scene. Ever since she saw Wicked on stage when she was seven, she has been wholeheartedly obsessed with show tunes, movement, and technical elements. When she was fifteen, Sarah decided to transition from actor to stage manager, and has never turned back! She pursued her academic endeavours at MacEwan University, where she earned a Bachelor of Communication Studies while still taking theatre-based classes and participating in the Citadel Theatre “Young Production Company” program.
After a few years hiatus away from theatre, Sarah is beyond thrilled to be back
in the booth doing what she loves!
Assistant Stage Manager
Nicole pontikes
Nicole Pontikes (she/her) is ecstatic to be returning to the theatre scene as a part of Fool’s Gold The Musical! In her teens, Nicole participated in numerous community and school productions, both on and off the stage. She has experience as an Assistant Stage Manager, a Fly technician, and has assisted with too many quick changes to count. After finishing high school, Nicole sacrificed many of her creative passions in order to focus on school and work.
Nicole got her Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from the University of British Columbia in Vancouver. She then went on to travel and live in various countries across Europe before finding herself back in Edmonton. She currently works in the Housing department at the Bissell Centre, helping members of the community obtain and maintain housing. While she finds this work rewarding and meaningful, she is happy to be back participating in the arts!
Choreographer
Janessa piche
Janessa Piché is a multitalented member of the arts community. She boasts 15 years of formal training in ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, acro, and contemporary. In addition, she has 9 years of experience in community and high school theatre. Her passion for being a choreographer started in high school, creating pieces for numerous musical productions including Legally Blonde, Newsies, and The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.
Janessa continues to explore her love of dance. Having just completed her first year as a dance teacher, she is humbled to have already received two outstanding choreography awards. She is thrilled to be involved in the production of Fool’s Gold as the choreographer.
Composer & Music Director
dAn CHARROIS
Known for his musical talent and kindness, Dan Charrois emerges as a virtuoso musician and composer. Possessing a flawless sense of pitch and an intuitive understanding of melody, he captivates listeners with his masterful command of a diverse array of instruments, ranging from the piano and guitar to the accordion and clarinet, and recently, for Fool’s Gold, banjo and fiddle.
With an unmistakable gift for arrangement and composition, Dan spends hours upon each bar of music, tirelessly crafting compositions that resonate deeply and tell the musical’s story through each note. In Fool's Gold, Dan showcases his talent by composing over twelve original songs, each meticulously crafted alongside Daphne Charrois to create what cannot be said in words alone. A consummate perfectionist, Dan's work is characterised by its polished elegance, refined craftsmanship, and unwavering passion.
With every composition, Dan's musical genius shines brightly, leaving an indelible mark on all who have the pleasure of experiencing his artistry. In Fool's Gold, his exceptional talent promises to elevate the musical to new heights, enriching the production with his creativity and boundless passion for music.
Playwright
dAPHNE CHARROIS
Daphne Charrois emerges as a dynamic force in the artistic landscape, proudly representing the intersection of her queer identity and Franço-Canadian roots. A graduate of The American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York City, Daphne's multifaceted talents are not confined to the theatre alone; her debut single, "Don't Call Me Baby," premiered globally, showcasing her versatility as an artist.
Daphne's theatrical journey includes standout performances such as Janet in
The Drowsy Chaperone at the Citadel Theatre, Maria in The Sound of Music, Josephine Strong in Urinetown, and the role of Julie Siraz in the Workshop of The Big Eyed Gorilla, which premiered at A.R.T. New York City.
Beyond her achievements on stage, Daphne has ventured into the realms of playwriting and directing. Her short play, The Memory Game, is a testament to her love of writing, while her directorial work on Digging Up the Boys earned her awards for Best Director and Best Visuals.
Costume Designer
Jeannie Charrois is an accomplished costume designer, with her incredible talent and unwavering dedication setting her apart as a true necessity to any production. With an impressive portfolio boasting over 200+ meticulously crafted costume pieces over the last decade, with over 100 for The Sound of Music alone, Jeannie's passion, vision, and unmatched skills have garnered widespread acclaim and recognition.
Her creative journey is a testament to her innate talent and lifelong dedication to the art of design. Armed with a Bachelor's degree in Education, specialising in Clothing and Textiles from the University of Alberta, Jeannie's love for sewing and design blossomed at a young age, laying the foundation for her passion of costume design.
Highlights of her work include captivating productions such as A Christmas Story, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Into the Woods, James and the Giant Peach, Newsies, Digging up the Boys, Legally Blonde, and Matilda. Each costume reflects Jeannie's boundless imagination and meticulous attention to detail, elevating productions to new heights with her pieces.
In Fool's Gold, Jeannie embarks on one of her most ambitious projects yet, crafting upscale Victorian outfits and can-can dancer ensembles, among many others. Her imaginative designs will breathe life into the characters and transport audiences back to 1898 with their intricate detail.
jeannie CHARROIS
Donations & Sponsorship
Your support by believing in our show is already an incredible contribution.
If you feel inclined to donate, your generosity would undoubtedly make a significant impact on our ability to deliver outstanding performances and create memorable experiences for our audience. However, please remember that your support in any capacity is treasured and cherished.
If you are interested in being a sponsor, please contact info@foolsgoldthemusical.com.
