Returning to the University of Windsor campus has proven a wonderful experience, says drama grad Marc Bondy (BFA 2000), director of the current University Players production, Dancing at Lughnasa.

An actor, director, teacher and entrepreneur, he founded and heads the Toronto-based marketing company, Outlook Promotions Inc. He says he has enjoyed being back in Windsor, the city where he was born and raised.

“There really is a neat kind of coming-home feeling,” Bondy says, citing the opportunity to see his former instructors, like Michael Keating and Brian Taylor. “I’m collaborating now with members of the design team who were here when I was a student, and now we’re colleagues.”

Bondy’s introduction to the play, a family drama by Irish playwright Brian Friel, came when had had a role in the University Players’ 1998 production. He jumped at the opportunity to direct it.

“I really was interested in Lughnasa in particular,” he says. “It struck a chord with me. It’s a beautiful play.”

A poignant and heartwarming tale of five sisters’ last dance before their lives change forever, it runs from February 27 through March 13 in the Hatch Studio Theatre.

“It is a story about family dynamics,” Bondy says. “It’s such an ensemble piece. The biggest challenge as a director is to make sure everybody’s perspective in the show gets attention.”

He says he did not want to be overly influenced by his own experience from 1998.

“I really wanted it to be an organic process for the students, and I think we have accomplished that,” says Bondy. “It’s like a brand-new play.”

He says he is proud of his work and that of the support crew and student cast: “I hope people from across the campus come out and check out this production.”

Wednesday through Saturday performances are at 8 p.m., Saturday and Sunday matinees are at 2 p.m. On Sunday, February 28, a “Talk Back” discussion with cast members will follow the performance. Tickets may be ordered online at www.UniversityPlayers.com or by calling 519-253-3000, ext. 2808.