P.E.I. native Aaron Hastelow to play Gilbert Blythe in Anne of Green Gables musical

An Islander will play the role of Gilbert Blythe for the first time in the 52-year history of Anne of Green Gables, the musical.

Charlottetown's Aaron Hastelow will play Anne's leading man when the show plays the Confederation Centre stage from June 29 to Aug. 27.

Hastelow said in a news release that playing Gilbert is a "full-circle moment." When he was eight years old, he played a child of Avonlea in the show.

"This is the role that inspired me to become an actor, and I can't tell you what it means to me to be given the opportunity to play this iconic Islander," Hastelow said in the release.

He will be sharing thestage this summer with his friend and fellow Islander Jessica Gallant, who is back for her second season playing Anne. Hastelow said that makes the roleeven sweeter for him.

"I feel like we are in for a truly golden summer."

Adam Brazier, the artistic director at the Confederation Centre, is happy to see an Islander in the role ofGilbert.

"We take great pride in supporting and training the next generation of artists from our province," he said. "As one generation exits the stage, another must enter."

Hastelow, who is now based out of Toronto, recently spent three seasons at the Shaw Festival and is currently performing in Evita with The Vancouver Opera. He will also be part ofthe ensemble for Mamma Mia! this summer at the Confederation Centre.

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