OTTAWA — A former grade nine student has successfully carried out his vindictive wish in cutting arts programs across the country, a vow made in 1973 after he was cut from the lead role in the high school production of the musical Oliver.
Richview Collegiate alumni Steve Harper, who also goes by ‘Stephen’, had been carrying his grudge after his drama teacher, Mrs Powers, selected fellow student and teenage heartthrob Phil Allayne over Harper after an intense audition.
“He was only selected because of his hair,” said Harper who now works in politics. “I performed the solo ‘Where is love?’ flawlessly. It just wasn’t fair! I was the better Oliver!”
Despite being offered the supporting role of Bill Sikes in conciliation, Harper promptly quit the production and began a successful 42 year campaign against all forms of art.
