My plays: A journey through Canadian stories
Welcome to my world of playwriting, where history, mystery, and human emotion intertwine. Here, you'll discover my creative works, each crafted to spark curiosity and invite reflection. I hope you find something that inspires you to read on or even consider bringing these stories to the stage.
The Black Donnellys: Roman Line Haunting
More than a century after the brutal massacre of the Black Donnellys, two paranormal investigators return to Lucan seeking contact with the dead, while an aging postmaster who witnessed the aftermath reveals how history was shaped, distorted, and preserved. As ghost story and historical reckoning intertwine, the play asks whether communities ever truly bury their violence.
Genre: Historical Drama / Ghost Story
Format: Full-length, two acts
Running Time: Approximately 124–129 minutes including one 15–20 minute interval (Act One: Approximately 55 minutes, Act Two: Approximately 54 minutes)
Cast: 6 speaking roles (4 male, 2 female); *Uniformed Driver and John Donnelly may be doubled
Set: Primarily suggested through projected scenic backdrops. A minimum of three practical replica (foam) gravestones required: two contemporary, one circa 1889.
Note: As 2030 marks the 150th anniversary of the Donnelly Massacre, this script provides an ideal opportunity for commemoration.
Discover my other works
My portfolio extends beyond "The Black Donnellys," offering a range of stories that explore Canadian history, quirky characters, and dramatic narratives. Each play is an invitation to delve into a unique world, whether through reading the script or considering it for your next production. I hope my work sparks your imagination and encourages you to explore the possibilities.
If you're looking for Canadiana, Canadian history, quirky tales, spirits, ghost stories, comedy, or drama, you've come to the right place. My plays are fiction inspired by non-fiction events, offering a fresh perspective on familiar themes.
Your next production starts here
I hope that after exploring this page, you feel curious enough to want to either read a script or consider producing one of my plays. I'm always open to discussing my work, answering questions, or exploring potential collaborations. Feel free to reach out to info@playwright-Leonard-Belsher.ca to discuss reading copies, performance royalty fees, or my current writing projects.