Kids with special needs invited to '42nd Street' in St. Charles
Rising Star Theatreworks invites individuals with special needs and their families, to the final dress rehearsal for "42nd Street" at 7 p.m. Thursday, June 25, at the Arcada Theatre, 105 E. Main St., St. Charles.
Rising Star began this new tradition after a positive response to a similar invitation last July to the final dress rehearsal of "Joseph & The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat."
Normally all of Rising Stars' rehearsals are closed, even to the families of cast members. However, the final dress rehearsal of each new show Rising Star performs now will be open to individuals with special needs and their families.
"It has always been a dream of mine to involve more people with special needs in theater," says Jeanne O'Donnell, director of both "Joseph" and "42nd Street."
"I understand that some people are reluctant to attend events where the audience is supposed to stay quiet and only applaud at appropriate times."
Through this special invitation, Rising Star is striving to create an environment where it is OK if an audience member shouts out during the show or sings along.
Set in 1933, "42nd Street" is a story of hard work, talent, love, and being in the right place at the right time. Songs include "Lullaby of Broadway," "Shuffle Off to Buffalo," "We're in the Money," and "Forty-Second Street." The musical features high school and college-age cast members from Aurora, Batavia, Geneva, Genoa, St. Charles, Sugar Grove and Wayne.
To reserve seats for a "Special Night for Special Friends," contact Nancy E. Hansen at (630) 845-9165 or HansConsulting@aol.com. There is no charge to attend. There are a limited number of wheelchair spaces available at the theater, so indicate in your message if anyone in your party requires a wheelchair space.
Scheduled performances of "42nd Street" are at 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 26, and Saturday, June 27; and 2 p.m. Sunday, June 28. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. Group discounts are available. For tickets, visit www.42tix.com
Rising Star Theatreworks is a nonprofit community theater group known for inspiring young people to become involved in theater and for providing the community with quality theater at affordable prices.