The Kid from Simcoe Street: the coming-of-age story of retired Judge James Clarke, growing up in Peterborough, ON. during the Second World War
“The new fire hall mascot.” James behind the wheel of the local fire truck.
June 4-6
A Fundraiser for The Trent Valley Archives
One Matinee Only: Saturday, June 6, 2 PM
*** Reserve Your Seat! ***
Tickets available starting Saturday, November 22, 2025 @ 7am
“The Kid from Simcoe Street” is a poignant, coming-of-age script about retired Ontario Superior Court Justice and prolific poet James Clarke, who grew up on the wrong side of the tracks in Peterborough, ON during the Depression and Second World War. He lived at 249 Simcoe Street, one block north and a block west of the historic Market Hall Performing Arts Centre.
Oblivious to the imperfections of adults as a child, young Jimmy Clarke idolizes his father, Sam. Dad enlists to fight in the Second World War. When dad is wounded and returns home four years later, he is a changed man – an alcoholic and a gambler – forcing Jim to reconcile his childhood adulation with his growing awareness of his father’s shortcomings and war trauma.
Behind the sadness, “The Kid from Simcoe Street” is also a heartwarming tale of boyhood adventures and a close-knit community that came together to support James. His mother, local firefighters, teachers, nuns, coaches, hoteliers, and lawyers all rallied behind him, steering a young man with potential toward a life of service and fulfillment.
The play, replete with references to local people and places in Peterborough’s past, is sure to appeal to history buffs, military Veterans, and long-time Peterborough residents.
Written for the stage by Ed Schroeter & Gerry McBride, the play is based on the memoir of the same title by 94-year-old James Clarke (Exile Editions, 2012). Script editing is by his grandson, David Francis Clarke.
The play is suitable for ages 14 to adult. The running time of this play is approximately 95 minutes. There will be one 20-minute intermission.
*** Tickets Available Soon! ***
Tickets available starting Saturday, November 22, 2025 @ 7am
Tickets are $30 or $40 for cabaret table seating.
Tickets can be purchased from the Market Hall Performing Arts Centre box office,
— Monday to Friday, noon to 5 PM,
by phoning (705)-749-1146 or by emailing boxoffice@markethall.com.
James Clarke’s memoir can be ordered online from Exile Editions
Written by Ed Schroeter and Gerry McBride
Directed by Drew Mills
Stage Managed by Barb Taylor-Mills
Donate To TVA Theater!Trent Valley Archives Theatre (TVAT) is an initiative to raise funds for TVA by producing volunteer-driven community theatre about local historical events. Can you help us make Crossing Over a success by donating to TVA’s pre-production expenses? The net profit from this fundraising activity will go toward TVA’s general operating costs. TVA is a registered charity. Donations will receive a charitable tax receipt and be recognized on the Crossing Over playbill, the TVA website, and in a special TVA e-newsletter – unless you prefer to remain anonymous. Your name will be listed in one of the following donation categories: Theatre Fan $20 – $99, *** If you prefer to remain anonymous, please leave us a note under Additional Information as you fill out the form. ***
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