Burnt Thicket Theatre‘s inaugural production

by James Popoff & Stephen Waldschmidt

The painfully funny story of one man’s turbulent return to the game his father loved. Bobskates before he could walk, daily drills on the backyard rink with dad—Todd Williams has hockey in his blood.  But he craves a transfusion.

“Born the moment of Paul Henderson’s goal—I was doomed…”

Now he’s living his own worst nightmare: his daughter’s hooked on the game and he’s trapped in a rink-side dressing room with his childhood demons.

Exploring the potent bond between parents and their children, this interactive solo performance will delight audiences of all ages (7+).

A truly Canadian comedy, performed by James Popoff and directed Stephen Waldschmidt.

History of HOCKEY DAD

Since 2008, our inaugural production has seen nearly fifty performances touring Alberta: Calgary, Red Deer, Airdrie, Strathmore, Edson, Three Hills, and Cold Lake at the 2010 Alberta Winter Games.

Highlights of 2010 included touring to Vancouver, BC during the 2010 Winter Olympics and making our first foray into the world of the Fringe Festival.  HOCKEY DAD was well received at both the Winnipeg Fringe, where it was chosen the Sponsor Production, and at the Saskatoon Fringe.

“A touching, poignant script, filled with a great knowledge of the sport, humour and pathos. Popoff delivers an all-star performance. 4 and a half stars!” —Saskatoon Star Phoenix (See full review)

“Hockey Dad shoots and scores… If you’re called up to stage, go. Popoff’s interaction with audience members is so natural it makes guest stars shine as well.” —CBC Winnipeg (See full review)

“Truly funny, heart-felt, exciting… generates belly-laughs… You don’t have to be a hockey fan to enjoy the play.” —Red Deer Advocate (See full review)