Beard: A Few Moments in the Life of Roy McDonald

Roy McDonald is one of London, Ontario’s most enigmatic and beloved residents. He is a poet. Known for his long beard and almost bursting shopping bags, McDonald can often be seen busking in the downtown core. That is where the play finds him. From there, Roy recounts his life: from a confined education system, from London to Woodstock, a maze of Montreal bars to Occupy London. Beard poetically tells of a rich life, the spirit of activism and the movement of life.

Beard tells the unique story of Roy and also tells the story of a generation whose hey-day was a time harsher than history remembers. While others were confined to jobs, they were confined to bars and now they can create something and live. In that sense, it is the story of every generation.

Beard premiered in 2000. This updated production will feature three new scenes and more of McDonald’s own poetry.

Tickets: $15; available at The ARTS Project box office, 519-642-2767.

Video by Andrea Edison