Bijou Theatre Opens WILLY WONKA JR. Tonight

The Bijou Theatre's children's summer program, The Bijou Arts Center's Summer Stage, will be performing "Willy Wonka Jr." tonight, July 25th at 8pm. The Summer Stage program at the Bijou Theatre is a theatre intensive program for both beginners and experienced performers between the ages of 8 and 15. This is the inaugural year of this program. The cast is very excited to perform on the Bijou's stage. For most of them this is their first live performance.

The mission of the Bijou Arts Center's Summer Stage program is to cultivate passion for theatre through education in a safe, warm environment. We will offer scholarships to children who have the drive and desire to perform but need the financial support. The learning process and the children will always be the most important part of the program.

This mission speaks to the local community making it clear that while not all children will be able to be on a scholarship, the theatre will do whatever possible within their power to make sure that every child has a chance by applying for a scholarship. The program focuses around all aspects of theatre such as acting, singing and dance as well as some technical aspects. All of the skills taught at the Summer Stage program will help throughout all aspects of life including public speaking, job interviews and presentations.

If you are interested in supporting this program by attending the performance or if you have any questions about any upcoming events or how to get you or your family involved, please call the Bijou Box Office at (203) 332-3228 and visit the website www.thebijoutheatre.com

The Bijou Theatre, one of the oldest buildings in the country used as a movie house, reopened its doors in 2011. In addition to continuing its historic character of showing movies, the Theatre offers a full repertoire of live music, comedy, theater and dance, which can be enjoyed in either theater seating or cabaret style. The Bijou Theatre is a multi-functional venue with integrity and an open-minded philosophy. A symposium for film, theatre, art, comedy and music. The Bijou Performing Arts Center is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing visual and performing arts programs and events for the community. The Bijou Performing Arts Center offers educational programs in Dance though New England Ballet, Music & Theatre, as well as special events and live theatre performances. Private donations, grants, tuition fees & ticket sales fund the Bijou Arts Center, which is located at 275 Fairfield Avenue in Downtown Bridgeport. For further information, call (203) 332-3228 or visit thebijoutheatre.com.