Newbies, veterans to stage 'Aladdin'
A first-time director is at the helm of the Elgin Children's Theatre's new production.
Its lead also is a newbie in that role. And the producer is putting that title after her name for the first time too.
But don't let that fool you.
At the local theater company, the actors and those behind the scenes have plenty of experience.
And it's all coming together for a show you'll want to see.
The group will stage "The Adventures of Aladdin" this weekend at the Hemmens Cultural Center in Elgin.
The adaptation by company co-founder and president Peter Akemann features two genies, a pair of wicked sisters, a silly suitor and musical parodies.
"It'll be fantastic," said director Mark Michelson.
Michelson has earned his new title with stints as assistant director, producer and in numerous other roles during his tenure with the volunteer group.
Producer Lena Scheflow also has served in many capacities, including assistant producer.
"There's a ton of work in it, but it's a lot of fun," Michelson said.
The not-for-profit group gives kids ages 7 to 15 the opportunity to hone their talents onstage with the benefit of professional lighting, sound and effects.
A volunteer labor force made up largely of parents makes sure everything from the costumes to the set is perfect and that backstage elements run like clockwork.
Fourteen-year-old Alex Schutzkus of Elgin has been working on his stage presence since his first role with the group in the first grade. Finding himself cast as the lead role of Aladdin this time around is an exciting surprise, he said.
"I was amazed that they would want me for that part," he said.
The production loosely follows the famed "Arabian Nights" storyline -- from which the popular Disney version was taken -- with a few changes and updates, Akemann said.
Of course there is romance with Princess Jasmine, a magic carpet ride, and hilarious havoc at the hands of Aladdin's pet monkey.
There also are two evil sisters who try to steal the magic lamp to gain power.
Not to mention the musical score, said Michelson, which includes parodies of 16 contemporary songs, like a "rockified" version of "Saturday Night" that has been changed to "Arabian Nights" and versions of "The Wanderer" and "I Melt With You."
"The kids just pull these songs off so well," he said.
Playing Jasmine to Schutzkus's Aladdin will be Fotini Karas of West Dundee.
Other notable players include Tatiana Ranallo of Gilberts as Alakazam Aladdin's monkey, Clee McCracken of Elgin as the Genie of the Ring and Justin Green of South Elgin as the Genie of the Lamp.
In all, 83 young actors make up the cast.
"It's very cool," said Schutzkus. "We've put a lot of work into it. It's one the kids will really enjoy."
Public performances are at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and at 2 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for students and seniors.
School group shows will be at 9:30 a.m. and noon Thursday and Friday. Tickets are $5 for those shows. A presentation for groups of 10 or more is scheduled for 2 p.m. Saturday. All tickets for that performance also will be $5.
If you want to go, call the Hemmens Cultural Center box office at (847) 931-5900. For group sales, call the theater's group sales coordinator at (847) 214-7550.
If you go
What: Children's Theatre of Elgin's production of "The Adventures of Aladdin"
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday
Where: The Hemmens, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin
How much? $10 for adults and $7 for students and seniors
Call: (847) 931-5900