CCT to Present ONCE ON THIS ISLAND

Columbus Children's Theatre (CCT) will present Once On This Island JR. July 27 - August 7, 2016 at Park Street Theatre located at 512 Park Street. The 2016 Summer Youth Performance Conservatory is comprised of actors ages 10-15. This production is directed by Ryan Scarlata. Book and Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens, Music by Stephen Flaherty, Based on My Love, My Love by Rosa Guy.

Set in the French Antilles archipelago in the Caribbean Sea, Once On This Island JR. tells the story of forbidden love on an island divided by social prejudice. Ti Moune is a peasant girl who rescues and falls in love with a wealthy boy from the other side of the island. The fantastical gods who rule the island guide Ti Moune on a quest that will test the strength of her love against the powerful forces of prejudice, hatred, and even death.

With actors ranging from 10 to 15 years old, the Summer Youth Performance Conservatory (SYPC) is a group of national award winning youth performers who are well versed in portraying meaning and depth beyond their years to the audience. As they share the message, "Strength Is Why", Director Ryan Scarlata shares the importance of being strong and courageous in conveying the themes his young cast will explore this summer.

"This story is an inspiring tale of love and courage. It inspires its audience and actors to stand strong, walk tall, be proud, and love unconditionally. Deeply meaningful and important topics take much strength to swallow, and a great deal of courage to face." says Scarlata

Throughout their intensive 3 week program, students spend almost every day in training. The SYPC rehearses the show in addition to taking theatre courses taught by professional theatre artists daily. While the process is vigorous, the strength the students gain as human beings in society as well as performers is often life-changing.

" 'Strength Is Why' is incredibly important to stress to this next generation. We are regularly faced with new challenges of all shapes and sizes, both on an individual and societal level, and it is strength that gets us over these obstacles." Says Rachel Heine, Stage Manager.

Once On This Island JR. is brought to you by season sponsors Greater Columbus Arts Council, The Columbus Foundation, Ohio Arts Council, The National Endowment for the Arts, O'Neill Foundation, American Electric Power, The Shubert Foundation and Nationwide.

Tickets are $15 for all seats,all ages. No Thrifty Thursday pricing during the summer. Reservations are recommended. Groups of 20 or more attending a 10am show receive all tickets at $10. Additional rates for groups of 10 or more are available for all show times. Please contact the Ticket Office for more at 614.224.6672 or www.ColumbusChildrensTheatre.org.

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