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November 30th, 2011 
admin Brunch is a favourite past time shared by many and should be an extraordinary experience, one that you will cherish. Vancouver has some wonderful places for brunch. Each of the places I visit is unique for what is offered along with the type of service and selection of dishes. I am on a journey around the city to find these extraordinary places and, at the same time, I will be joined by a notable personality who may be a Film Producer or Director, Musician, Arts Festival Director, Actor or other well-known individual for Brunch at restaurants in and around Vancouver.
For my seventh brunch in this series, I was joined by Artistic Director – Max Reimer at Dockside Restaurant on Granville Island talking theatre, acting, dancing, food and more!
Max Reimer
Max is the Artistic Managing Director of the Vancouver Playhouse Theatre Company, he is also an actor, dancer and event producer. I have attended many of his theatrical productions over the past couple of years. He recently joined me for the Jazz Blues Brunch at Dockside Restaurant in the Granville Island Hotel.
When did you begin your acting career?
In 1980 I started at The Arts Club dancing and acting in ‘Pipin’ musical that toured through-out Canada. In 1985 working in the Stratford festival.
How does one become an Artistic Director of a Theatre Company?
In my case, I was pursuing a business/legal career – while performing also produced small stage plays, large events including the Gay games. Combination of business and arts that put me in the Helm.
How do you find actors for your productions?
I accept auditions more than any other artistic director of a theatre co. I try to see everyone who submits.
- Agents submissions (list of characters needed for a play)
- Attends all productions of Studio 58 and other schools.
When do you begin working on the 2012/13 season?
Now in the fall of 2011, I have to secure rights to be finalized by end of 2011 to launch in the spring of 2012. Alligning themselves with other theatres across Canada.
What do you do in your spare time?
- Tennis
- Cryptic crosswords
How did the Vancouver Playhouse Vancouver International Wine Festival get its start?
It was started 35 years ago as a fundraiser to support the Vancouver Playhouse Theatre Company. It all started with the Bacchanalia Gala with a wine auction that grew to an international top wine festival. The festival provides over half of private sector fundraising to our organization.
Why aren’t there any plays performed during the Vancouver Playhouse Vancouver International Wine Festival?
Eventually the wine festival will bring in a theatrical component to the festival, we have been trying to do this for some time, however venues have been difficult to arrange.
Blues music
What is your favourite food?
Crepe with bacon, peaches and ice cream (has a heritage side to it –Mennonites would make crepes and I stumbled on bacon and mushrooms combo and I make my own syrup.
Which restaurant are you looking forward to dining at next?
Black + Blue
What are your favourite restaurants in Vancouver?
- The Shore Club
- The Keg Yaletown
Eggs Benedict
Salmon Burger
Max had the Eggs Benedict ($14) and Richard had the Salmon Burger ($16).
How many productions will you produce this year?
We have 6 productions along with 4 co-productions including the Childrens Festival featuring Fred Penner and Jay Brazeau.
Does the Vancouver Fringe Festival have any connection to the Vancouver Playhouse Theatre Company?
Yes the Fringe Festival curates for the Playhouse; in fact “The Exquisite Hour” is going to be performed in the recital theatre which is located under the Playhouse in an auditorium that seats 100 people.
What is your favourite all time play?
Jesus Christ Superstar
In your travels, which was the most recent favourite play that you have seen?
Jerusalem in New York
Where was your most recent trip?
Calgary – I directed a play
Where is your next trip?
Play Tennis in Phoenix
Crème Brulee
Chocolate Pate
For dessert, Max had the Crème Brulee ($9) and Richard had the Valhrona Manjari Dark Chocolate Pate ($9).
What do you want to accomplish with the Vancouver Playhouse Theatre Co over the next few years?
- Insure that we become a fully collaborative partner with the many theatre companies in Vancouver to make the Ecology.
- Work with the city on setting and creating access to performing venues and to also to give voice to Vancouver production.
What do you think is missing in Vancouver specifically in the arts community?
Producers –people that bring audiences and the art together. They need their work introduced on the main stage.
Who are your Mentors?
- Bill Millerd (Arts Club Theatre)
- Joe Shoctor (was at the Edmonton Citadel)
- Allan Lund (Director and Choreographer at the Charlatettown Festival)
What makes a good production?
Theatre is an audio experience, terrific writing, brilliant use of English language. Art of theatre is art of compassion – audio experience. It’s about the idea and the word. Au auditorium is a place to hear something.
Why turn the phone off in the theatre?
Eventually the cell phone will be a useful tool for hearing impaired, language challenged in the theatres.
How do you go about building a stage for a play?
Sometimes there is budgetary constraint and the other is about artistic ambitions.
How does a co-production work such as Tosca Café?
Style: a La Carte
Attire: Smart Casual
Time: Brunch is offered Sunday 10:00am – 3:00pm
Dockside Restaurant
1253 Johnston Street (Granville Island), Vancouver
Menu: http://www.docksidevancouver.com/menus/main-menu-sunday-brunch
For Reservations, please call 604-685-7070
Stay tuned to my next guest Interview along with the next Brunch in and around Vancouver.
By: Richard Wolak
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