Community News

LEACOCK AND FAMED FRIEND THE FOCUS OF EXHIBIT

EXHIBIT COINCIDES WITH REOPENING OF LEACOCK MUSEUM NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

FRANK MATYS fmatys@simcoe.com

She was the first Canadian to win an Oscar, the first actress to earn $1 million per year and the first person to be filmed in a close-up.

The legendary Mary Pickford, known in her day as "the girl with the golden curls," was also a friend of author and humourist Stephen Leacock.

Their friendship, and Pickford's silentfilm career, will enjoy the star treatment during an upcoming exhibit that coincides with the May 21 reopening of the Leacock Museum National Historic Site (50 Museum Dr., Orillia) for the 2022 season.

"There is much to explore when it comes to Leacock's public and private life," said Jenny Martynyshyn, museum co-ordinator.

Throughout the duration of the Pickford exhibit, attendees are invited to vote on which of Leacock's famous friends the

museum should focus on next — among them Charlie Chaplin, F. Scott Fitzgerald and J.M. Barrie.

"We are looking forward to new ways of bringing to life the stories and experiences connected to his love for literature, recreation, gardening and this stunning waterfront property," Martynyshyn added.

The museum will offer self-guided and guided tours from Wednesdays through Sundays weekly.

Drop in between the hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. to explore on your own, or reserve a spot for one of the guided tours offered at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. daily.

Mayor Steve Clarke described the picturesque site on Old Brewery Bay as "one of Orillia's hidden gems."

"There is something for everyone, be it taking in the historic exhibits, exploring the beautiful grounds and gardens or attending one of the new programs or activities," Clarke added. "Stephen Leacock gave us our moniker of the Sunshine City, and his summer home brings that namesake to life."

The museum will also welcome to the property FARE Restaurant, scheduled to open May 20 and billed as Orillia's newest waterfront dining experience with contemporary cuisine.

Entertaining Entertainers: Mary Pickford, Queen of the Silver Screen, starts May 21 and runs until Sept. 4.

For admission pricing and further details regarding the museum, go to leacockmuseum.com.

NEWS

en-ca

2022-05-19T07:00:00.0000000Z

2022-05-19T07:00:00.0000000Z

https://communitynews.pressreader.com/article/281663963616186

Metroland Media Group Ltd.