The Man Who Came to Dinner (2025)

The cast brought the house down once again during our 32nd Lawyers’ Play, The Man Who Came to Dinner. This beloved annual co-production of the Manitoba Bar Association and the Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre continues to thrive thanks to a strong and unique partnership. Each year, an ensemble of volunteer lawyers, judges, law students, and professors take the stage, balancing demanding legal careers with weeks of rehearsals, to present a polished production in support of two vital arts institutions.

The Lawyers’ Play is always one of my favourite MBA events. Not only do we get to see our colleagues transform into captivating characters, but we also raise significant funds for the Royal MTC and the Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival. Since this tradition began in 1990, the collaboration has raised more than $1.1 million!

This year’s production, The Man Who Came to Dinner, was a delightfully witty comedy that kept audiences laughing from start to finish. Set in the 1930s, the story follows the outrageous antics of a famous radio personality who, after slipping on ice and injuring himself outside a prominent family's home, proceeds to overstay his welcome in spectacular fashion. With its fastpaced dialogue, eccentric characters, and classic charm, this year’s play was a hit thanks to the tireless efforts of a dedicated cast and crew.

Auditions were held in November 2024, followed by months of evening and weekend rehearsals that culminated in a muchanticipated opening night on May 7, 2025.

On behalf of the MBA, I extend sincere thanks and congratulations to the talented cast and crew of The Man Who Came to Dinner. Your commitment, energy, and generosity exemplify the very best of the legal profession. The success of the Lawyers Play each year is a testament to your passion and dedication.

Special thanks also go to Director Mariam Bernstein; Stage Manager Chuck McEwen; the Royal MTC team;our hardworking Lawyers Play Committee; and our generous sponsors: Lawton Partners, the University of Manitoba Faculty ofLaw, and Lawyers Financial. Your
support makes this event possible.

And finally, thank you to everyone who came out to enjoy the show and support the arts. We look forward to seeing you again next year!

Stacey Soldier

President, Manitoba Bar Association

THE CAST

• Gail Asper
• Clair Cerilli
• Paula Ethans
• Nancy Fazenda
• Reid Girard
• Caleigh Glawson
• Cynthia Hiebert-Simkin
• Joan Holmstrom
• Peter Kingsley
• David Kroft
• Jerrit Lipski
• Hayley Main
• Jim McLandress
• Jeff Palamar
• Jodi Plenert
• Brad Regehr
• Jaime Rosin
• Mike Segstro
• Boris Senchuk
• Heather Wadsworth