From its earliest days The Playhouse has recognized the value of offering plays for young audiences on our mainstage. In the 1980s this commitment was formalized into a popular program called The Laguna Playhouse Youth Theatre.
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If you would like information about The Jessica Herron Memorial Scholarship Fund, call Donna Inglima 949.497.2787, ext. 202. |
The Youth Theatre Season offers plays primarily aimed at children
of
elementary and middle school age. These may be existing plays
or musicals based upon well-known, popular books or stories, but we also sometimes commission new stage adaptations.
2009-2010 SEASON
STUART LITTLE, A MUSICAL FANTASY
November 6 - 15, 2009
Based on the book by E.B. White
Adapted by Joseph Robinette
Music by Ronna Frank
Lyrics by Joseph Robinette and Ronna Frank
Stuart Little is no ordinary mouse. Born into a family of humans, he lives in New York City with his parents, older brother George and a cat name Snowbell. Though shy and thoughtful, Stuart is also a great lover of adventure.
THE BOX CAR CHILDREN
April 23, 24, 25, 2010
By Barbara Field
Adapted from the novels by Gertrude Chandler Warner
One warm night four children stood in front of a bakery. No one knew them. No one knew where they had come from. Henry, Jessie, Violet and Benny are orphaned and in danger of being sent to different foster homes. The four siblings run away and make their home in an abandoned railroad boxcar. Pursued by the authorities and a mysterious stranger, the children discover the rewards and perils of life on the run, as well as the joy of keeping their family together.
Two things make the Youth Theatre Season unique in the region. First, the productions are directed and designed by theatre professionals and fully-mounted with the Playhouse’s technical resources. Second, the cast and staff for each production is drawn principally from our Youth Conservatory Program. Casting is almost always “age-appropriate.” Young people play young roles. Local amateur actors generally play the adult roles but fully professional Equity guest artists may also be cast.
The content of the plays is typically similar to G-rated or PG-rated films. To ease any parental concerns we explain the content in advance marketing materials and at point of ticket purchase.
THE SECRET LIFE OF GIRLS
March 9 -11, 2010
By Linda Daugherty
An honest unflinching dramatization of teen-girl angst and the tumultuous, destructive world of girls’ bullying. Based upon interviews with girls on the giving and receiving end of bullying, the play highlights the impact of “cyberbullying,” the facilitation of mean-spirited behaviors through the use of cell phones, instant messaging, email and chat rooms.
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