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NORWAY – The fifth annual Children’s Theater Workshop has been busy preparing for its performance of “The Best Little Theater in Town,” a musial written by Sally K. Albrecht and Jay Althouse. The event will take place Sat., April 8 at 2 p.m. at the Second Congregational Church, U.C.C., 205 Main St.
Since early January, a dedicated cast of 12 grade and middle school students have been participating in the free weekly musical theatre workshop, sponsored by the church. They have battled bad weather, rehearsed songs, learned choreography and memorized lines. They have practiced the stage craft of expressing their emotions. They have discussed and amassed props and costumes, but most of all, they have had fun getting ready for their production.
According to Director Shirli Allen Heald, some community members and family have asked if the show will be ready. Her smiling reply is, “At this age, it’s not all about being ready. It will be wonderful and amusing. It may not go exactly according to the script, but it will be their show. A workshop experience is more about the process than a perfect production.”
Some of the children, ages 9 to 14, from six surrounding towns, did not know one another before the Thursday workshops began. Others have participated in previous workshops. They all made new friends, practiced respect and compassion, and helped each other with new theater skills. Some of the very shy participants have blossomed. Some of the bold have learned restraint. Parents have created costumes, amassed props and as the show approaches, they are now arriving a few minutes before the end of rehearsal, to watch some of the children’s accomplishments.
In this musical, “two young narrators discuss the elements of a musical theater production in the fun-filled ‘play within a play.’ ” The story unfolds as the small town theater company struggles to make ends meet. There is plenty of music, drama and more than enough comedy for everyone. The public is invited to this free performance; doors open at 1:30 p.m.
The production is directed by Shirli Allen assisted by Sharon Hollowell and Jean Saunders. Ed Baldridge accompanies the troop on piano. A light reception will follow the production, and a donation basket will be available to those who wish to support the Children’s Theater Workshop.
