A popular Harriston actor, MC and more is making his return to a Drayton stage with a starring role in a local production.

Sh-Boom! Life Could be a Dream from Drayton Festival Theatre will feature Neil Aitchison, who says theatre is a unique form of entertainment that creates a real sense of togetherness.

"When we bring the community together in theatre it's really something that unifies people," Aitchison said.

"It's a communal experience, where people of all different stripes, ages, religions and backgrounds all come to the theatre and when the lights go down, we become as one," he added.

The play, with a busy schedule of performances from now until Sep. 3, will be a special one for Aitchison, as he has the chance to perform in home territory.

"That's where I was born and raised, I've lived in Waterloo since 1968, and it's always great (performing in Drayton) because there's always lots of people we know and are related to or connected to," Aitchison said.

"I've been there many times on the Drayton stage. Drayton started 33 years ago, I've been a part of it since day one," he pointed out.

In the play, Aitchison’s character, DJ “Bullseye” Miller, aims to recruit young musicians to apply for the opportunity of a lifetime- a one-year recording contract.

Aside from his obvious local connections and experience performing for Drayton Entertainment, Aitchison says he has much respect for the organization.

He pointed out that Drayton was able to overcome the pandemic with their online 50/50 draw and come out of it stronger. He says they've become a model for other theatre companies across Canada.

Tickets can be found on the Drayton Entertainment website.

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