Citadel Theatre targets kids with 'Junie B. Jones' musical
Citadel Theatre Company, a professional not-for-profit company performing a four-show season in Lake Forest, is seeking to instill a passion for theater in children at an early age with its new Theatre for Young Audiences series.
The series, inaugurated last fall with the musical "Elephant And Piggie's We Are In A Play!," continues with Citadel's production of "Junie B. Jones, The Musical." The hourlong show is a comical adaptation of four of Barbara Park's best-selling books.
Though not strictly for children, the story will be especially relatable for preteens who have either recently experienced, or are anticipating, the challenge of starting school.
It's Junie B.'s first day of first grade, and a lot of things have changed for her: Junie's friend, Lucille, doesn't want to be her best pal any more and, on the bus, Junie B. makes friends with Herb, the new kid at school.
Also, Junie has trouble reading the blackboard and her teacher, Mr. Scary, thinks she may need glasses. Throw in a friendly cafeteria lady, a kickball tournament and a "Top-Secret Personal Beeswax Journal," and first grade has never been more exciting.
Citadel's "Junie B. Jones, The Musical" is a fully-staged musical performed by professional adult actors. The show is approximately one hour long and is recommended for audiences ages 3 and older. Upcoming performances are at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 16 and 17, at Gorton Community Center, 400 E. Illinois Road in Lake Forest.
Tickets are $15 for all seats, and are available online at www.citadeltheatre.org or by phone, (847) 735-8554, ext. 1
The musical is directed by Gregg Dennhardt. The cast includes Jessica Surprenant (Junie B. Jones), Shea Lee (Lucille/Bobbie Jean Piper), Anna Segatti (Camille/Gladys Gutzman), Lily Cox (Chenille/Mommy), Eric Deutz (Herb), Brooke Haylee (May/Grace), Max Downs (Sheldon/Lennie/Bus Driver), Brian M. Kulaga (Mr. Scary/Daddy), Brooke MacDougal (Female Swing), Luke Polanczyk (Male Understudy).
The production team includes Brenda Good (choreographer), June Cathcart-Smith (musical director), Eric Luchen (scenic designer), David Knoell (master carpenter), Victoria Jablonski (costume designer), Samantha Thielman (stage manager), Sapier Weinglass (properties designer), and Robert D. Estrin (production manager).
In addition to the company's regular four-show season of plays and musicals performed at the Lake Forest High School West Campus, 300 S. Waukegan Road, where's Citadel's production of "The Roommate" is now playing through March 3, Citadel stages summer performances of classic plays outdoors in various Lake County locations.
Founded by Scott and Ellen Phelps in 2002, Citadel Theatre comprises its Main Stage performances, its On Tour programs, and its theater acting classes for children. Citadel Theatre is a proud member of the League of Chicago Theatres and the Lake Forest/Lake Bluff ArtsLink.
For information, ticketing or to make a donation, visit www.CitadelTheatre.org or call (847) 735-8554.