Nancy Brozek
After a summer filled with master level classes, hands-on training, and countless rehearsal hours, this season’s talented groups of 13-19 year old students are ready to shine in two Civic Theatre summer productions: “The Neverending Story” and “Hairspray, Jr.”
Civic Theatre, known for delighting audiences with seemingly magical performances, has not held back this repertory season either. Fans of “The Neverending Story,” an epic fantasy based on Michael Ende’s 1983 novel, will delight as they see how Bastian’s daily encounters morph into reality while he reads from the magical book. The technical aspects of this show suspend disbelief as the story telling is shared through exceptional costuming and characters that include shadow screens, puppets, and foam created characters. Director, Allyson Paris notes “Growing up, this story was a favorite of mine. I was drawn to the idea that a child could be reading a book and imagining it come to life – only to have it happening in real time somewhere in our universe. This time, that somewhere is Civic Theatre’s stage.”
The always ready, Tracy Turnbald and her justice seeking friends have few surprises in store for audiences too. “Hairspray, Jr.” will sing and dance its way into your heart . . . with moves directly from Broadway. Choreographer, Worth Hages, who played Amber VonTussle on the first national tour of “Hairspray,” has led the cast in bringing Jerry Mitchell’s delightful original choreography to life. Director Andrew Schneider said, “It’s extremely rewarding to see the passion for art grow for each student. The heart of this story is the message of love and acceptance of self and others, which is not only a perfect ‘lesson’ for these students but we are eager to share it with West Michigan audiences in such an uplifting and inspiring way.”
About Summer Repertory Theatre Intensive: This program offers students (ages 13-19) a hands-on theatre experience under the direction of Civic Theatre, regional, and nationally trained professionals. Productions are produced by students, 30 of whom are making their Civic debut in this summer. Through this program, students learn performance skills, as well as technical aspects of theatre – including set design, costume design, backstage work, sound, and lights. Both shows are family-friendly, affordable, and a great summer outing for kids and teens.
“The Neverending Story” and “Hairspray, Jr.” is July 28 – Aug. 6. Tickets are $10 – $16. Check www.grct.org for times.
