GRCT Presents 'AXLEANDER AND THE...VERY BAD DAY,' Now thru 5/3

Grand Rapids Civic Theatre and School of Theatre Arts presents Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day from tonight, April 24 - May 3.

Alexander is having a bad day. A terrible day. A horrible day. To be quite honest, it's a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day. And, all of it is captured when the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre brings the storybook page to the theatre stage in this delightful adaptation of the very popular Judith Viorst book.

Originally commissioned by the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Judith Viorst sets Alexander's rather trying life to music and brings to the stage one of America's feistiest characters. Not only does Alexander wake up with gum in his hair, but his mother forgets to pack him dessert, and his best friend decides he's not his best friend anymore. And just when it can't get any worse, there are lima beans for supper and -yuck!-kissing on TV. It is enough to make anyone want to go to Australia.

Voirst based the characters Alexander and his brothers, Nick and Anthony, on her own three sons. Alexander's struggles with life's daily dramas will not only entertain but educate young audiences as they identify with Alexander and the obstacles he encounters, encouraging them to share their feelings and to realize that bad days happen-even in Australia.

When producing a popular and endearing children's favorite story, the Theatre works hard to bring the book's pages to life. "This creates that magic moment that makes Live Theatre real" states Community Relations Director, Nancy Brozek. "For so many children, this is the moment they remember throughout their life. It is the moment they become a fan of the art!"

Civic Theatre Associate Director, Penelope Notter echoed this statement and noted the magical moment holds true for the children on stage also. "One of my greatest joys comes from directing children! I never fail to be amazed at how talented and courageous these children can be. Many members of this cast have never performed on our stage before this show. This is a fact that doesn't seem to faze them in the least. "

CAST LIST:

* Carter Strobel Alexander

Nick Altena Nick

Adam Wright Anthony

Olivia Han Becky

*Makhyli Simpson Audrey

*Jared Martin Philip

Benjamin Furness Paul

*Zach Klooster Albert

*Whitney Dykhouse Mother

TJ Corbett Father

*First production at Civic Theatre

The Grand Rapids Civic Theatre expresses thanks to the following sponsors and partners:

Season Sponsor: The Porter Foundation and Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs

Production Sponsor: The Jury Foundation

Artistic Sponsors: GR Kids

Ticket Prices $10 -$16

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