New Beginnings Reviewed by Debbie McClure During the mid-1800s Ireland experienced a severe potato famine that decimated crops and left families starving and fearful of what the next year would bring. For many, it was a time to re-examine life and the potential opportunities countries such as Canada offered. It seemed so possible and easy. A family could travel across the sea and start a new life in a land offering fertile fields, plenty of jobs, and a better life for all. Of course, the advertisements inviting immigrants to Canada didn’t address the difficulties the families would face, the sometimes harsh winters, and the dilemma of finding decent-paying work. This is the story of one such young family who were eager to follow their dreams. The Wind Coming Over the Sea is now on stage at the Blyth Festival’s Memorial Hall, until October 5. Henry (performed by Christopher Fulton) and Jane Johnson (performed by Shelayna Christante) are struggling to make a decent life for themselves and their young children. When Henry reads an advertisement enticing immigrants to come to Canada, he’s excited at the prospect of a new start. Convincing Jane to stay in Ireland while he travels ahead to get established in the new country isn’t easy. However, with her solid faith in Henry, Jane finally agrees to stay behind with the children. Henry soon learns that the way to a better life is full of unexpected trials, both on board ship across the heaving ocean and on land. The way ahead is hard, leading Henry to doubt the soundness of his decision. Determined, he makes his way from landing in New York to finally settling in Hamilton, Ontario. Over the course of a year, the letters shared by the young couple fuel their determination, and Jane embarks on ...