Mr. Dressup actor and musician Beverly Glenn-Copeland brings ‘pure love’ back to the screen with kids TV pilot
When Beverly Glenn-Copeland and his partner Elizabeth first came up with the idea for a new children’s TV show a few years ago, their goal was to educate kids about caring for the planet, the importance of community, and the ability to adapt to change. Little did they know that the lessons they were trying to impart to children would also become a personal journey for them.
As they developed the vision for the show, fleshed out the characters, and shot the pilot, they found themselves faced with a challenge they never expected. Glenn, the beloved Canadian musician, trans elder, and former actor on Mr. Dressup, was diagnosed with a major cognitive disorder. This diagnosis halted further progress on the project, forcing the team to confront the very themes they were exploring in the show: how to accept a challenge and let it change you.
Producer Sean O’Neill reflected on the situation, noting that the challenges they were facing were real and mirrored the difficulties that children encounter in their own lives. The team had set out to create a show that didn’t shy away from themes of loss, death, and family, but instead offered children tools to navigate life’s challenges.
Despite the setback, Glenn, Elizabeth, and O’Neill are excited to share their project, titled “Caring Cabin,” with the world. The pilot will be screened at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) Lightbox and is also available for streaming on the Criterion Channel. While the show may have taken a different direction than originally planned, the team is eager to showcase their work and continue the conversation around adaptation and resilience.
The idea for “Caring Cabin” was born out of Elizabeth’s realization that Glenn’s talents were perfectly suited for a children’s show. With Glenn’s background in music, acting, and his love for puppets, the show became a blend of his many skills. The result is a show rooted in the collaboration between Elizabeth and Glenn, complete with a cast of animal friends in puppet form.
The pilot episode offers a glimpse into the world the team created, featuring music from Glenn, characters like Fred the squirrel, and exploration of life lessons in a wilderness setting. The show emphasizes interdependence and connection, with Glenn learning as much from the young characters as they learn from him.
While the future of “Caring Cabin” remains uncertain, Elizabeth and Glenn are hopeful that the show’s concept may still come to fruition in some form. In the meantime, they have tour dates scheduled in the UK and Europe to showcase Glenn’s music and new projects. Despite the challenges they have faced, Glenn’s creative spirit remains strong, prompting new art and a newfound freedom from perfectionism.
As they continue to navigate the changes in their lives, Glenn, Elizabeth, and O’Neill are excited to share their work with audiences and continue the conversation around adaptation, resilience, and the beauty of embracing the present moment.
