The Belfry Theatre is marking its 50th anniversary with a distinctly Canadian choice — Michael Healey’s sharp-witted political comedy 1979.

Set in the tense days leading up to Joe Clark’s first federal budget, the play reimagines the night when Canada’s youngest prime minister faced the possibility of defeat on a confidence vote. It’s a precarious political moment, but on stage it’s turned into “really like smart, sharp writing with…wild comedy,” says actor Nathan Howe, who takes on the role of Clark.

Director Glynis Leyshon, who guided the Belfry as artistic director for 11 years, says the play is “examining really important, relevant material in a really, really fun, light, exciting way.”

For Leyshon, the timing is perfect.

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