ORPHEUM SUMMER CHILDREN’S THEATRE 2008

A DIRECTOR’S CUT ABOVE THE REST:

Scarecrow/Coleman O'Brien, Tinman/Colin Sullivan
Cowardly Lion/Mike McGrath

Ensemble Bay Colony Production 'Oliver'.

The Orpheum Theatre in Foxboro is offering up a fantastic line-up of musical productions for their 2008 summer classes. Young theatre enthusiasts can anticipate

a truly satisfying summer because three full-scale productions are already in the planning stages!

‘The training and education that is gained from participation in a fully staged musical is insurmountable’... remarked Dori Bryan, Resident Choreographer for The Orpheum Theatre. ‘...And at the helm of each production are the finest directors, choreographers and musical directors in the greater Boston area...’ said Bill Cunningham, Orpheum Theatre Executive Director. 

First up are the Westwood classes.

Session I will open with Disney’s Mulan

(June 23-July 11 for Grades K-12): The retelling of the old Chinese folktale about a young maiden who sets out to help her father after learning that he is to be called up into the army where she knows he would never survive.

 Next in Westwood is Godspell Jr.

(July 14-July 25 for Grades K-12). The beloved classic is now available in a junior version to better meet the developing skills of its young participants. Drawing from various theatrical traditions, Godspell Jr. is a groundbreaking and unique show with a message of kindness, tolerance and love.

 Closing out the summer at the Foxboro campus is Chicago,

(July 28-August 21 for Grades 7-12) the razzle dazzlin’ Bob Fosse Tony Award winner.  

From audition to performance participants will undergo a comprehensive theatrical experience, one that will better equip them for future projects. Rehearsals for each musical production will include script work, scene study, character development, speech and diction, stage direction, prop usage, musical styling, choral dynamics, vocal harmonies, musical staging and musical theatre choreography distinct to each selected show.

As casts work toward their public showcase, lights, sets and costumes will add a final touch of polish to compliment the concentrated efforts of each ensemble. Ultimately, audiences will delight in an unexpected level of excellence while the young performers celebrate a sense of accomplishment unique to those who participate in the Arts.

For more information regarding the Orpheum Theatre’s 2008 Summer Classes, please call 508-543-ARTS (2787) or visit www.orpheum.org