NUMBER THE STARS Special Community Night Performance Announced

What is bravery? How can one person make a difference? These are a few of the questions this Newbery Medal award-winning novel, Number the Stars, asks its readers and now its audience. For the first time on Grand Rapids Civic Theatre's stage, this powerful story of a young Christian girl's willingness to risk her life to save her Jewish friend is told. Set in Copenhagen, Demark during World War II, the story reflects our world's dark history in an effort to remind us all, good and light continues to be found.

Taking its name, Number the Stars, from Psalm 147.4, the story is rich with symbolism as it weaves together themes of bravery and family to demonstrate the power of small acts of heroism. "A popular novel in many middle and high schools, seeing the page transform to the stage will be a moving experience" noted Director of Community Relations, Nancy Brozek. "Our purpose is to produce plays that create conversations in our community, this production is certain to open dialog between children and their parents".

A special Community Night performance is scheduled for October 18, at 7:30 PM, with all seats only $6.

Character Performed By

AnneMarie Johansen: Emelia Shaw+

Ellen Rosen: Evangeline Vander Ark+

Kirstie Johansen: Grace Berlin*+

Mrs. Inge Johansen: Lauren Greer*

Mrs. Sophy Rosen: Kristin Tomlin

Mr. Johansen: Jason Vandy Bogurt*

The Giraffe/Man with Beard: Griffin Booher*

Peter Neilsen: Dane Schweigert+

Samuel Hirsch/German Soldier: Aaron Siebelink+

Mrs. Hirsch: Nadia Karadesheh*

Uncle Henrik Knudsen: Wesley Swickley

Woman with Baby: Anna Peerbolt

Gilleleje German Soldier: Dean Calkins*

Husband of Woman with Baby: Noah Simonait*+

Mr. Rosen/German Soldier: Sam Mulderink*

*First Production at Civic +School of Theatre Arts Student

The Grand Rapids Civic Theatre's mission: We are committed to enhance the cultural life of West Michigan by creating opportunities for people to enjoy live theatre performances using community artists, and to provide access to a comprehensive theatre arts education program for all ages. www.grct.org.

To post a comment, you must register and login.