Prop photo from the upcoming UFV production of ”The Secret in the Wings.” (Image Credit: University of the Fraser Valley)

By Alyssa Conti

Secret in the Wings

UFV students to present fairy tale-inspired play in Abbotsford and Chilliwack

Mar 1, 2026 | 11:34 AM

CHILLIWACK — The University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) is inviting residents to daydream with its student performers in an upcoming theatre production.

Mary Zimmerman’s “The Secret in the Wings”, starring UFV School of Creative Arts’ Acting and Production students, is a story built from several lesser-known fairy tales that underscore childhood dangers.

“I hope audiences leave recognizing that fairy tales are not necessarily childish or escapist,” said Director Anna Griffith. “Some are survival stories. Some help us to see how oppression operates and how gender and power intersect. […] In a time when so much feels uncertain or destabilizing, this production reminds us that change, even when it is painful or unwanted, can lead to growth.”

UFV instructor Parjad Sharifi mentors the production students in collaboration with technical coordinator Jared Raschke, wardrobe manager Heather Robertson and production manager Giuseppe Condello.

“Structurally and thematically, this play offers students a fantastic challenge. It demands imagination, ensemble work, and courage to tackle difficult material.”

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Performances will be held in the Rotary Hall Studio Theatre at the Chilliwack campus and the Performance Studio at the Abbotsford campus, from March 19 to 28. 

Tickets and more details are available through the UFV Theatre website. 

This April, the program’s fourth-year directing class is also set to present a series of 13 productions at the Directors’ Theatre Showcase at the 2026 Interpret Festival.