Local youngsters take to stage
SIKESTON - When the curtain opens on Sikeston Little Theatre's production of "Follow that Rabbit" on June 13, it will mark the 15th youth show staged by the group. Since its inception, over 800 young people in the Sikeston area have appeared on stage in different plays.
Fifty area youngsters ranging from third grade to high school are on stage for the four performances as a crew of parents and adult members of the theater group work backstage on sound, lights and costumes. For two hours, the youthful cast will entertain the audience with singing, dancing and antics on stage.
"This is one of the most important events for the group as it gives an opportunity for the participants to showcase their talents on stage," said Lynn College, Little Theatre president.
"Follow that Rabbit" by Tim Kelly with music and lyrics by Pam Hughes and Karen Selby is an adaption from the classic writings of Lewis Carroll and his tales of Wonderland. From the moment Alice falls down a rabbit hole she finds herself in a world where the fun never stops.
The cast portrays talking birds and animals, singing flowers and comic kings and queens. There is a race where the contestants run in circles and everyone wins and of course, the tea party hosted by the Mad Hatter. The finale has Alice at the trial of the Knave of Hearts for stealing tarts where she becomes the accused.
"The play has been billed as a modern view of a classic where nonsense makes good sense," said Colley.
He pointed out this will be the second Little Theatre production in the new Albritton Mayer Center for the Arts. "This presents a wonderful opportunity to see the talent of some of our area youth," said Colley.
The play will be staged beginning at 7 p.m. June 13, 14 and 15 at the Albritton Mayer Center for the Arts on South Kingshighway. A special Father's Day show will begin at 2 p.m. June 16. Reserved seat tickets are currently on sale for all performances and may be purchased for $5 each by calling the center at 481-0255 or may be reserved at Collins Music in Sikeston.
Tickets sold at the door before the performances are $6 each.