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Talent runs deep in the Grainger family.
Son Sebastien made a name for himself with the popular two-piece band Death From Above 1979 while sister Katherine runs the local theatre troupe Cow Over Moon Children’s Theatre. The family's other child Mathieu has been active in the arts industry and performed for many years in a folk group.
And now, the family's matriarch is getting into the act. Erin Mills resident Francine Robert-Grainger will make her professional stage debut in a new play about beauty and aging.
Body & Soul, being presented by Dove, opens at the Young Centre for the Performing Arts in Toronto this Saturday, and continues until Saturday, May 17.
"It has been an absolutely incredible experience," Robert-Grainger told The News. "Working with professionals like (director) Judith (Thompson) is a chance in a lifetime. I never thought I'd have the opportunity."
Robert-Grainger, 61, is not a professional actor. She's just part of the cast that features 13 Canadian women between the ages of 45 and 78 talking openly and honestly about their lives, bodies and experiences.
"(Body & Soul) is about celebrating the diverse beauty of mature women and demonstrating that beauty has no age limit," said Dove Canada marketing manager Alison Leung.
While it hasn't always been easy re-examining her life through the play, Robert-Grainger said she hopes those who see the show will leave the theatre changed.
"It has been very emotional going back into our lives, especially the parts that are harder to go into," said Robert-Grainger, who worked as a behaviour consultant with students before retiring last year. "I hope they will feel better about themselves. The play contains a lot of hope for all of us. I think there is no doubt that people will come out and reflect on their own lives; in which way, I can't tell you."
Robert-Grainger heard about the show through her daughter, who is a fan of Thompson. To apply, she had to write a letter that was addressed to her body.
"I'm a person who's in touch with my feelings," she said. "Sharing is maybe helping other people. Sometimes in life we feel that we're the only ones going through things, and that isn't always true."
While Robert-Grainger is comfortable telling her story, she understands the strength needed to get up in front of a room full of strangers and start speaking.
"We're displaying not only our bodies, but our souls as well," she said. "It takes courage, but the women are very courageous."
For more information, visit www.doveplay.ca or call 416-866-8666.
cclay@mississauga.net