University Players presents an affectionate ode to the once-vital centre of family life, The Dining Room by A.R. Gurney. The production runs from October 27 to November 5 in the Essex Hall Theatre.

The Dining Room is a brilliantly conceived and richly humorous theatrical tour de force. From little boys to stern grandfathers, and from giggling teenage girls to Irish housemaids, a wide array of diverse characters and overlapping vignettes create a touching in-depth portrait of the vanishing lifestyle of the wealthy WASPs (White Anglo-Saxon Protestants).

Director Jim Warren finds this light-hearted yet moving piece filled with lessons about how people relate to each other and the value of past traditions, especially as the world continues to change.

In remembering the connection to family and generations over time, he says, “there is something to be valued and learned from the past and not dismissed.”

Wednesday through Saturday performances are at 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday matinees are at 2 p.m. On Sunday, October 29, a free “Talk Back” discussion with the actors will follow the performance.

Tickets may be purchased online at www.UniversityPlayers.com or by calling 519-253-3000, ext. 2808.