Patty Czajka reminisced about her childhood in Detroit, where she was captivated by a Canadian TV series set on Prince Edward Island. Every Sunday, she watched “Road to Avonlea” with her grandmother and was particularly drawn to Mag Ruffman, who portrayed Aunt Olivia in the show during the 1990s.
Upon learning that Ruffman would be attending a fan convention in P.E.I. dedicated to the series, Czajka didn’t hesitate to secure a ticket. She described Ruffman as her childhood equivalent of a Disney princess and expressed her excitement at being able to attend the event thanks to her husband’s support.
Enthusiasts of “Road to Avonlea” gathered from various corners of the globe for the fully booked convention. The acclaimed Canadian show, which aired in over 100 countries, premiered in 1990 and concluded after seven seasons in 1996.
The storyline revolved around the life of a young character named Sarah Stanley (portrayed by future Academy Award winner Sarah Polley), who was sent to live with her deceased mother’s relatives at the start of the 20th century. The show was loosely based on the novels of Lucy Maud Montgomery.
The convention spanned three days and featured activities like oyster and wine tastings, along with panel discussions involving the show’s cast and crew. Attendees also embarked on tours around the Island to visit filming locations from the show, as well as Montgomery’s birthplace, gravesite, and the Cavendish house that inspired her renowned work, “Anne of Green Gables.”
Edward Lemon, the assistant director of Fine Book Fairs, the organizers of the convention, highlighted that the show’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to provide an escape and evoke values such as kindness, friendship, and camaraderie.
Mag Ruffman expressed her gratitude for the fans’ enthusiasm during the convention, emphasizing the profound connection viewers continue to have with the show. She shared that even years later, she occasionally wonders about her character, Olivia, reflecting on the lasting impact of her role.
Czajka mentioned that she is currently rewatching the series with her three children, finding immense joy in sharing the experience with them just as she did in her grandmother’s home. She praised the show for its rare ability to engage both adults and children, making it a cherished viewing experience in today’s entertainment landscape.