Gossip in the Graveyard resurrected

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This article was published 07/07/2022 (1588 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Local actors will be bringing the dead to life with the return of Gossip in the Graveyard this September at the Brandon Municipal Cemetery.

Brockie Donovan Funeral and Cremation Services has been hosting Gossip in the Graveyard since 2007. The walking historical tour of the cemetery is designed to unveil some of the Wheat City’s most famous, and infamous, individuals while supporting local non-profits.

“We’re so proud to do it because it’s a great opportunity to raise money for different charities in the community,” said Kelly Lumbard. “It has been a hit year after year. It always sells out.”

She is excited to be resurrecting the immersive historical tour after a hiatus since 2019 due to COVID-19.

Gossip in the Graveyard is a two-hour interactive walking tour that helps guests “step back in history” and meet fascinating figures who helped shape Brandon into the city it is today.

“I have learned so much about Brandon just by being part of this tour. There are some really, really fascinating people,” Lumbard said.

This year, Gossip in the Graveyard artistic director Ken Jackson of the Assiniboine Theatre Company will be roaring into the early 1920s with 10 historical figures during the tour.

The 1920s were a time of trials and tribulations — the world was recovering from a pandemic and the First World War, while navigating prohibition, the organization of unions and other social movements.

“I kind of see the 1920s as being a lot like the 2020s — we’ve just gotten over this huge pandemic. There’s been changes in our society,” Jackson said. “I see the world as having to reinvent itself, recreate itself, adapt, and I think that’s what they were doing after the First World War.”

All these transformations took place at a global level, he said, but could be felt at the local level in Brandon.

“I’m hoping that we can get some perspective on how the world was forced to change.”

The historical walking tour will feature around 10 actors in period-appropriate clothing portraying different historical figures. Guides will also share short stories and historical facts throughout the tour.

When possible, guides incorporate sounds and visuals to further immerse guests in the 1920s.

In preparation for Gossip in the Graveyard, Jackson will explore the cemetery, studying the headstones and researching the names attached to them. He will take photos of headstones that jump out due to their shapes, symbols or inscriptions. When a unique aspect catches his eye, he will “go down the rabbit hole” studying an individual’s story.

“I’m looking forward to finding little stories and tidbits to do in the fall.”

Jackson is passionate about history, he said, describing himself as an “armchair historian.”

His interests lie in the importance of the unique and exciting stories about individuals who affected the course of history in Brandon, even if at times their contributions could have possibly gone unnoticed.

He recommends those who attend Gossip in the Graveyard come with an open mind and be ready to hear the stories of Brandonites from all walks of life.

“This is us trying to tell as much as the story as we possibly can tell. Not just a segment of the story,” Jackson said. “If we don’t keep telling the stories, then the stories disappear and the people with them — there’s importance even in those small stories.”

Gossip in the Graveyard is an opportunity to learn and discover something new about the city’s history. He hopes that guests learn unknown tales that set their minds aflame with a desire to learn and undertake their own research online or at the library.

He can tell by the looks on the faces of his audience if the tour is a hit and they are inspired by the facts they learn.

“It’s the same as if you go to a movie or play. If you stood there and watched the faces coming out, you’re going to tell how well it went.”

Gossip in the Graveyard appreciates criticism as well because it helps organizers improve the event year after year.

Tickets for Gossip in the Graveyard are $20, with 100 per cent of the proceeds going to Westman Dreams For Kids.

Lumbard is a board member of the charity and appreciates the organization’s commitment to sponsoring children who face life-threatening or severe illnesses.

Westman Dreams For Kids strives to make these children’s dreams come true, while also providing support for families commuting to Winnipeg for treatments.

“They need the community support and awareness,” Lumbard said.

Gossip in the Graveyard will take place on Sept. 10 at 6 and 6:15 p.m. and Sept. 11 at 3 and 3:15 p.m.

To register for this event, call 204-727-0694.

» ckemp@brandonsun.com

» Twitter: @The_ChelseaKemp