‘Fun and whimsy in the garden’: RMTC prop finds new home at The Leaf

A replica truck that originally appeared in an RMTC show is now on display at The Leaf. (Source: Glenn Pismenny/CTV News)

The Assiniboine Park Conservancy inherited the little red truck from the Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre (RMTC). It’s now being used in a display at The Leaf called “Green Thumbs, Green Future: The Sustainable Garden.”

“I think what we’re trying to showcase is there’s a sustainable way to do gardening, whether it’s composting or growing your own vegetables, but there’s always an opportunity for fun and whimsy in the garden,” said Gerald Dieleman, senior director of horticulture at the Assiniboine Park Conservancy.

The truck was designed by Brian Perchaluk for RMTC Warehouse’s November 2024 production of “The Recipe.” It was created out of a welded steel frame that’s been covered in plywood and Styrofoam. It was then skinned with fabric, coated in resin and hand-painted.

Dieleman said the truck fits in with the spring garden theme and that the reuse of the prop highlights the idea of sustainability.

He noted this isn’t the first piece RMTC has shared with the Assiniboine Park Conservancy, adding the organizations have an incredible partnership.

“The horticulturalists here at The Leaf and the set production team at the theatre company have established a really interesting relationship on unique pieces that are unique to the theatre but also can be used in the theatre of a garden,” he said.

The Leaf’s “Green Thumbs, Green Future,” which showcases sustainable gardening, is on until June 1 at the Babs Asper Display House.

The truck will remain with the park and may pop up in future displays.