Victoria audiences have spoken, and their message is clear.. one show wasn’t enough.
After overwhelming demand for his upcoming performance of One Man Lord of the Rings, beloved Victoria performer Charles Ross is adding a second show at St. Ann’s Academy.
The extra performance will take place Saturday, December 20th at 2 p.m., giving fans another chance to see the internationally acclaimed hit during the holiday season.
Ross, known worldwide for his high-energy, one-man takes on iconic stories, says the response from his hometown means more than he can express.
“There are so many reasons to love home, Victoria doesn’t disappoint,” he said.
“I never knew that a non-Christmas show could have a chance at Christmastime, but I guess people are keen for variety.”
His holiday-timed version of One Man Lord of the Rings compresses the entire trilogy into 5,400 seconds of comedy, sound effects, and full-tilt physical theatre.
Related: One holiday to rule them all: ‘One Man Lord of the Rings’ comes to Victoria
From Frodo to Sauron, Ross plays every character at warp speed, creating a show that’s part theatre, part comic whirlwind, and entirely joyful.
Ross believes there’s something about Tolkien’s world that pairs surprisingly well with December.
“The stories are about hope and friendship—fellowship overcoming strife,” he said.
“The films were originally released at Christmas time. They were cinematic gifts, and I must have seen each of them a dozen times in the theatre.”
“They’re cozy in a funny way. They’re long, they’re an adventure, and watching them is a time investment. That’s what makes them perfect for this season.”
A global hit, but a hometown favourite
Ross has performed his one-man epics around the world, including across North America, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and major festivals like Edinburgh Fringe—yet performing for Victoria audiences, especially now over two dates, hits differently.
“There is no place like home, all cheesiness intended,” he said. “Being home and knowing that nerdom is here and happy and vital… thank goodness. Yes, it’s amazing to travel to Australia and meet geeks like me, but how amazing is it to trust that the love I share with others around the world has a place right here.”
Ross won’t spoil anything, but says the show is sharper than ever.
“I am older than I was 22 years ago, but I have yet to tweak my back throwing myself across the stage,” he joked.
“The show is as tight as ever, and as this is the season of giving, I will be giving more than my all.”
Asked to encourage fans to join the second performance in true Tolkien spirit, Ross didn’t hesitate.
“The Hobbits thought their quest was finished once they reached Rivendell,” he said. “How amazing is it that the journey continued? For me the joy is in the journey. Watch out Great Eye, because not just Santa Claus is coming to Mordor.”
With two performances now on the calendar, fans have twice the opportunity to laugh, quest, and celebrate together this holiday season—Middle-earth style.
Grab your tickets here!
One Man Lord of The Rings at St Ann’s Academy – Added Show
- When: Saturday, December 20th—2 p.m.
- Where: St. Ann’s Academy Auditorium, Victoria
