ArtReach Educational Theatre presents 'The SpongeBob Musical'

ArtReach Educational Theatre in partnership with Spotlite Theatrix Production Company is staging "The SpongeBob Musical," conceived by Tina Landau, with songs by various artists and a book by Kyle Jarrow, and based on the Nickelodeon animated series "SpongeBob SquarePants."

Performances will be 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 8; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 9; and 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 10, at the Leela Arts Center, 620 Lee St. in Des Plaines. Tickets are $18 in advance, $20 at the door.

For ticket information, call (847) 372-7798 or visit www.artreachspotlite.com.

The stakes are higher than ever in this stage musical, as SpongeBob and all of Bikini Bottom face the total annihilation of their undersea world. Chaos erupts. Lives hang in the balance. And just when all hope seems lost, a most unexpected hero rises up and takes center stage. The power of optimism really can save the world. This show promises to bring joy to adults and children alike.

The show is directed and choreographed by Jonah Parra and Dan Walsh of Des Plaines, with musical direction by Ingrid Flechtenmacher of Chicago and assistant direction by Kevin Foss of Palatine.

The cast includes Kevin Foss of Palatine as SpongeBob; Jonah Parra of Des Plaines as Patrick; Ingrid Flechtenmacher of Chicago as Sandy; Dan Walsh of Des Plaines as Squidward; Ted Rafferty of Schaumburg as Mr. Krabs; Giovanna Biassi of Mount Prospect as Pearl; Hope Bizzell of Rolling Meadows as Karen; Thomas Tompkins of Arlington Heights as Plankton; Chloe Williams of Wood Dale as Perch Perkins; and Edlyna Talla of Hanover Park as the mayor of Bikini Bottom.

The mission of ArtReach Educational Theatre is to expose children to all aspects of theater, music and dance. Any child, age 5 through high school, from beginner to advanced performing levels, with a genuine interest in the arts is accepted. All children are challenged and encouraged. ArtReach Education Theatre offers private voice lessons, dance and acting classes, advanced musical theater workshops and Summer Arts Camp programs in Palatine.

All current safety protocols and recommendations by the CDC and local governments will be observed. Your cooperation is appreciated.

For information about ArtReach programs, taught by professional actors and teachers, call (847) 372-7798 or visit www.artreachspotlite.com.

This program is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council.