The ambitious production is based in the genre of steampunk, a popular subset of science fiction and fantasy inspired by the aesthetics of Victorian England. The Dolls of New Albion is an ambitious four-act musical that tells the story of the McAlastair family of scientists over four generations, running a total of 90 minutes. It is a sung-through musical, meaning that all dialogue in the play takes place as part of the songs. Promotional material emphasizes the themes of the opera:
“Each act unveils a new chapter in their saga, set against a backdrop of love, ambition, revolution, and ultimate redemption.”
The production is based on a play by Paul Shapera, a prolific musician who has made numerous musical works using the steampunk New Albion setting. This is the first of what Nine Lives hopes to be an annual tradition of fall musicals, with the goals of growing the theatrical arts in the Fraser Valley area. Cast members were selected through an audition of local talent. Musical productions such as this often use eye-catching poster design and social media to help attract theatre lovers.
The Nine Lives production of The Dolls of New Albion will take place at the Rotary Hall Studio Theatre of the Chilliwack Cultural Theatre, with eleven shows running between October 11 and 20.