I Can Dream Theatre celebrates 10th production with Downtown Hillbillies

I Can Dream Theatre Inc. (ICDT) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing performing arts opportunities for neurodiverse adults since 2011. This year, the group reached a significant milestone with its 10th production, Downtown Hillbillies. The show opened on June 6 with a finale on the following night at the Eric J. Maclean Centre for the Arts. 

The play was a clever mash-up of Downton Abbey and The Beverly Hillbillies, written by the ICDT’s director Ada Masciarelli. The performers showcased their many artistic skills throughout the evening, including acting, singing, dancing, and playing musical instruments. 

For many in the cast, their journey with ICDT began over a decade ago. Over the years, the organization has paid homage to many famous films and stories like the Titanic, Macbeth, Grease, Star Trek, and more recently, The Godfather. The camaraderie of ICDT offers vital opportunities for performers to socialize, rehearse together and build a sense of community and belonging. They have also acquired a fanbase that leaves them with sold-out shows most years. 

Downtown Hillbillies had an overarching theme of compassion and accepting each other’s differences, which was emphasized by Merrill Matthews, ICDT's community manager: “I find that what I liked about this year's show was that it was more sweet than past ones… I loved that the tone of the show was more about the commonalities between these two different families more than anything.”  

Among the talented cast was a standout member, Carlo Magtibay, whose rendition of Elvis's “Unchained Melody” left the crowd visibly moved. According to Matthews, the song was originally picked to be an ensemble number, but when Masciarelli and stage manager Tricia Bartley heard Magtibay singing it alone at rehearsal, they decided he had to be the one to sing it.  

A new cast member was Dimitri Fiskas, who also treated the audience to his stellar version of Tom Jones’ “Delilah.” Matthews praised the musical contributions of Magtibay and Fiskas, noting, “They did so much of the heavy lifting music-wise on this show, which was incredible. I was really happy that this particular play showcased both of them in new ways.”  

Every new play is a testament to the group’s motto “If you can dream it, you can live it”. Through its unique approach to theatre, ICDT aims to foster independence, commitment, perseverance, self-confidence and friendship.  

To keep up to date with future productions or to support ICDT, visit icandreamtheatre.com.