Anne and Gilbert plans longer run

The show Anne and Gilbert opened previews for the 2016 season at The Guild in Charlottetown Tuesday night.

This is the earliest the show has started since it began on P.E.I. 12 years ago.

Producer Campbell Webster believes the market is there for a longer season.

"We keep finding that there's visitors that come to this Island and Islanders also that just want to see this show," said Webster.

I love the show. I wouldn't be here if I didn't. Brittany Banks

"It's a little theatre, 144 seats. It doesn't take a whole lot to sell it out."

Webster saidthe show's recent success at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa helped to bring more attention to the production.

Growing up with the show

This year Anne and Gilbert is directed by Brittany Banks, a true veteran of the show.

Banks was in the ensemble when the show launched at the Victoria Playhouse in 2005. Over the years she has played various roles, including Diana Barry.

"I love the show. I wouldn't be here if I didn't," said Banks.

"I really did grow up in the show."

Runs through October

This is the professional directing debut for the native Islander, who is now based in Toronto.

Banks is very excited to see how the audience reacts at previews and opening night this week.

"That's the next step, is to see the energy between the performers on stage and the audience. That's when theatre lives at its best," she said.

Anne and Gilbert will run through to mid-October, in all about three weeks longer than last year.

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