The Mon Valley Performing Arts Academy will stage the show July 27.
The Mon Valley Performing Arts Academy will wrap up its 2019 summer theater for young performers with a fully staged production of Disney’s Alice in Wonderland Jr.
The public is welcome to attend the show at 4 p.m. July 27 in Steele Hall Mainstage Theatre on campus.
Hosted by Cal U’s Department of Music and Theatre, the academy, now in its 22nd year, gives students ages 8-17 an opportunity to study musical theater. After acting, voice and dance classes, technical theater learning and rehearsals, students present a musical complete with stage sets, costumes and props.
More than 40 children are participating in this year’s academy. Students study and rehearse from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays, beginning July 15.
Disney’s Alice in Wonderland Jr. is a fast-paced take on the classic story of a girl who disappears down a rabbit hole to a fantastic place full of bizarre adventures.
“For the Summer Experience we look to select a show that will be fun for the whole family to attend, but is also filled with lively, colorful characters, challenging music, and opportunities for all levels of dancing,” said Dr. Michele Pagen, the academy’s director and co-chair of the Music and Theatre Department. “Alice fit that bill for us this year; additionally, the show encourages you to be curious about the world around you, but more importantly to be yourself!”
The Summer Experience artistic and teaching team includes members of the theatre faculty as well as local professionals.
Current Cal U students involved in the production include Betty Kline as production stage and company manager, and Sam Park, Amanda Woodburn, Brendan Pavlick, and Sarah Martin as course assistants and counselors. Serena Olsen is the lighting designer; graduate student Kayla Grimm is the acting instructor.
The Mon Valley Performing Arts Academy is fully accredited by the National Association of Schools of Theatre, the same organization that has accredited Cal U’s Bachelor of Arts in Theater program since 2005.
Tickets for Alice in Wonderland Jr. are $8 for adults, $4 for children. Tickets may be purchased at the door. Tickets can be reserved beginning July 22 by calling 724-938-4220.
Additionally, there will be a Mad Tea Party at the Herron Patio area prior to the show, beginning at 2:15 p.m. July 27. The party includes pre-show activities, a telling of the story, and photos with the cast. A limited number of seats are available for this event, and the cost is $10 for children and $15 for adults. Price includes the party and a ticket to the show.
Tickets for the tea party must be reserved by calling 724-938-4220.