Welcome to the Brighton Barn Theatre

Doug wore many hats at the Barn Theatre, actor, director, producer, board member and general volunteer.  

As an actor he will be remembered for his impeccable comic timing, and appeared in productions beginning in 2002 with a role in Let's Murder Marsha.  Roles over the years included parts in One Toe in the Grave, Barefoot in the Park, There Goes the Bride, When the Reaper Calls, The Odd Couple and many more.  

Doug was also a major player in the Ghost Walks which took place between 1998 and 2002 and were partially dramatic presentation on the Rotary Stage and partially a walk throughout town.  The Ghost Walks explained the local history of Brighton and the surrounding area.  In 2012 he rewrote the Ghost Walks script and directed it as a full length play, The Ghosts Are Back, marking his directorial debut.  

As a director Doug found his niche in comedy and farce with credits including Farce of Nature, Funny Little Thing Called Love, Farce of Habit, Deliver Us From Mama (in which he also acted), and most recently the highly successful Hotbed Hotel (co-directed with his wife Joanne). His mandate included involving people new to the stage in each of his productions, and his co-operative style allowed all opinions to be heard and considered.  He encouraged people to work outside of their comfort level and believed that everyone should have their "moo" moment. 

No matter what his role, Doug was a fully committed participant who will be sorely missed in the years to come.  

We offer our heartfelt condolences to his family, to Joanne, his daughters, grandchildren and stepchildren.  The family have indicated that the Barn be the beneficiary of any donations in his memory, should they be offered.  Donations may be e-transfered to info@brightonbarntheatre.ca  , password dougphelan , or mailed to Brighton Barn Theatre, PO Box 578, Brighton, Ontario K0K 1H0.