By Kristi Dobson

PORT ALBERNI — A team of local talent has been hired by the McLean Mill National Historic Site to direct its Tin Pants Theatre Company.

Graduates of Alberni District secondary school Mariee Devereux and Melissa Robertson along with retired ADSS teacher Kerry Robertson beat out tough competition in the application process.

“We had 10 applicants from around the province and short listed to five candidates,” said Jean McIntosh, director of the Alberni Valley Museum. The caliber of qualified job seekers was amazing, she said.

The new team brings to the job a wealth of education and theatre knowledge.

Each has an extensive background in acting, directing, script writing, choreography, music, education, promotion, production and stage management. All three are graduates of the University of Victoria.

Devereux holds a bachelor of education, as does Kerry Robertson, with a major in English and theatre.

Melissa Robertson graduated with a bachelor of fine arts, majoring in theatre and acting.

McIntosh is anticipating an exciting summer season for the Mill.

“They are bringing in new approaches in terms of programming and children's education,” she said of the new directors.

Under their direction, the interactive Tin Pants Troupe will engage audiences with songs, drama, comedy and dance, all incorporating pieces of local history.

Following the show, the actors provide guided tours of the site to visitors.

This season's theatre will run seven days a week, with three full shows and three tours daily.

The interactive show will target all ages, with two days of special additional programming for children and families (Tuesdays) and seniors (Wednesdays) when the train and mill are not operating.

Over the years, the Mill has been able to hire young people for summer positions as Tin Pants Troupe members.

Application process is currently underway, and anyone interested is encouraged to visit www.alberniheritage.com/mill for more information.

McIntosh hopes the entertainment will increase attention and activity at the Mill.

“We're in our 10th season now so we have a strong history and good reputation,” she said. “I am very proud of our theatre and looking forward to this year.”

She said the strong partnership between the Alberni Valley Museum and McLean Mill helps promote Port Alberni's heritage and forest history, as well as attract tourists to the region.

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