At Oceana PARC Playhouse in White Rock, the buzz of theatre magic is quietly building. The stage is set for A Year With Frog and Toad, the summer musical by the White Rock Players Club, running from August 6 to 10. Backstage is a hive of creative energy as the cast and crew prepare to bring this beloved story to life.
Becky MacDormand, the show’s director, and a professor of acting and playwriting, takes a moment in the nearly empty auditorium. She shares insights about the production, including the bold, oversized set pieces designed by Maddi Willoughby. These two-dimensional, storybook-style props perfectly capture the charm of Arnold Lobel’s original children’s tales.
MacDormand, directing her first show with the club, describes her approach as flexible. She sets the broad vision but lets her creative team fill in the details. This teamwork is clear in the seamless design and performances that are coming together.
The musical explores the theme of friendship through the contrasting characters of Frog and Toad. Frog is carefree and confident, while Toad is cautious and anxious. The story unfolds over four seasons, featuring various woodland creatures and highlighting subtle changes in their world.
MacDormand admits the show took time to grow on her. “At first, I thought, ‘Nothing really happens,’” she says. “But it’s a reflection of life. Things change slowly, and there’s a lot of fun in that.” Her family shares in the joy: her son plays a small role, and her daughter celebrates her birthday during a performance.
As someone used to academic black-box theatre, MacDormand faces new challenges directing a proscenium musical with live music. She credits musical director Allan Thorpe and a talented seven-piece orchestra for elevating the production. Thorpe even brings in a “thunder sheet” — a classic sound effect tool — to create live sounds during the show, adding to the immersive experience.
Costume fittings bring excitement as actors try on wardrobe pieces designed by Hana Maihara. From luxurious robes for the leads to quirky accessories like a yellow safety helmet for the character Mole, the costumes spark joy and some practical concerns about quick changes.
The cast blends fresh faces with familiar talents. Many are new to the White Rock stage, including high school student Miri Grad, who impresses with her deep knowledge of musicals. The ensemble spirit is strong, creating a vibrant, supportive atmosphere.
Stage manager Grace Moore quietly runs the show backstage, praised by MacDormand for her calm efficiency. The production’s behind-the-scenes teamwork mirrors the onstage friendship that the musical celebrates.
Rehearsals hum with energy, even as last-minute costume changes delay a group photo. This relaxed camaraderie highlights the heart of community theatre — people coming together for love of the craft, not just the work.
MacDormand sums it up: “In professional theatre, it’s all about the schedule and the job. Here, it’s about passion and fun.” That passion shines through in every note and step of A Year With Frog and Toad.
The musical runs August 6-10 at Oceana PARC Playhouse, with evening shows at 7:30 p.m. from Wednesday to Saturday, and matinees at 2:30 p.m. Friday through Sunday.
