By Connie Fritz

Youth Theatre Director

A prince, a pumpkin, a glass slipper … history’s most enduring fairy tale will take the stage next weekend in the Colquitt County Arts Center’s Wright Auditorium.

Performances will be Thursday, April 24 at 7 p.m., Saturday, April 26 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and Sunday, April 28 at 2 p.m.

Tickets for all performances are $5 and can be purchased in the Arts Center office beginning Monday.

Sixty-one young people from 5th to 12th grades make up the cast and crew of this production of Rodger’s and Hammerstein’s “Cinderella.” Of that number, about half are on stage for the first time in an Arts Center Theater production.

Audience members see the final polished end result of at least 12 weeks of preparation, planning, rehearsals, costume fittings, set designing, prop gathering and so much more that goes in to a production.

Students and parents have been working on building and painting sets and gathering props. A wonderful volunteer came out of the woodwork and has done some sewing for us — “thank you” Laura Scott!

Our tech crew is all students including our light booth operator AJ Pierce.  The stage manager is Rebecca Viohl and she has a crew of students working backstage to make sure every scene is set right with everything needed.

And of course, Ken Collier is our musical director. I can’t imagine doing this without him. In the words of the Fairy Godmother, “Impossible!”

This past week at rehearsal cast members were asked to share their thoughts on the process and here is what some of them had to say:

“I absolutely love the show. I simply just love the music of Rodger’s and Hammerstein. The music is so gorgeous and I can’t believe I’m finally getting to sing these songs.”                  Bekah

“This show is amazingly fun and the people in it are too. The show is not the Disney Cinderella, but in a way I believe it is better. I will keep coming back to do shows.”

        Abby

“I have made friends and learned new skills which have helped me in my life with things like public speaking. Being in plays has given me confidence.”

        Cat

“I have made friends and experienced things that most people would think is dumb. I thought theatre was dumb for a while but I came back and I love it! I feel this is our best play, amazing cast and we have had a fun time.”

        Jake

“I have been in many plays and they have allowed me to be myself and let loose. I don’t know what I would have done without theatre.”

        Rachel

“I have gained a lot of confidence in myself from doing plays and I have made some amazing friends. I have learned skills I can use throughout my life.”

        Kayla

I count myself as extremely fortunate to have had the opportunity to meet and get to know some of the most amazing young people through this production.

I hope you will find time in your schedule next week to come meet and support the work of these talented young people.

Did I mention that the Arts Center auditorium is actually named the Wright Auditorium; named for arts benefactor Bob Wright. In homage to the theater’s home you will see the King’s Banners on stage are actually a version of the Wright Crest, however, in place of the lion’s heads you will find the drama comedy masks.

Just a little extra something for you to look for!