Branch Out Productions welcome 13 year old director for a production of 13, The Musical.
Although it has only been a few weeks since Branch Out Productions brought their production of The Marvelous Wonderettes to the stage of the Charlotte Street Arts Centre, the Fredericton-based community theatre group are putting the final touches on their next show, this time it’s the James Robert Brown’s, 13, The Musical.
“13 is this great little show about labels that last a life time,” said BOP’s Ben Harrison. “It’s the story of Evan Goldman, a soon-to-be 13 year old whose life is being turned upside down. His parents are getting a divorce, he’s moving from New York City to Appleton, Indiana and on top of all this he needs to plan his Bar Mitzvah. In Appleton, he learns the value of true friendship, even if it means not being part of the popular crowd.”
This show is the second in a series of summer productions from BOP and features a cast of 20 students aged 11 – 17. Also, the show will be directed by 13-year-old Ady King, who has been involved in recent productions with both BOP and the TNB Theatre School.
“I thought it was important for this show to be told by someone who’s currently living in this storyline,” said Harrison. “Ady has been with Branch Out for four years now and it has been really exciting to see her grow as a performer and now take the skills she’s learned and use them to tell this very relevant story.
“Ady also made the decision that a portion from each ticket sold will go back into helping youth at risk in our community.”
The production features a full ensemble of young musicians under the musical direction Kate Weaver-Bennett and bandleader, Allan Morgan.
“The story is very real,” said Harrison. “There are parts that will make us laugh out loud and parts that will make us uncomfortable. That is the life of a teenager really. Fun and exciting, awkward and uncomfortable all rolled up into one little package.”
13 | Tom Morrison Theatre (FHS) | June 25-27, 2015 | Tickets available online, at Regent Mall Guest Services and at the door | $15 in advance – $20 at the door
This show deals with mature themes. Branch Out Productions suggest a PG13 rating.
