Kids Coop Theatre presents a classic musical for all ages as part of its continuing quest to bring youth theatre to the area.
Kids Coop presents "Once on This Island," at the Adams Memorial Opera House in Derry.
Performances are set for Nov. 13 at 7 p.m.; Nov. 14 at 1 and 7 p.m., and Nov. 15 at 1 p.m.
The story is based on Hans Christian Anderson's classic story, "The Little Mermaid," and tells the story of a poor peasant girl , Ti Moune, who rescues then falls in love with Daniel, a wealthy boy from the other side of the island.
Show director Don Tongue said the show takes a great partnership between the young actors, parents, and everyone behind the scenes.
"It is always a thrill to take a show from concept to performance before an audience," Tongue said. "The art of creating live theatre requires a tremendous amount of collaboration and when that collaboration includes Kids Coop, the results will be spectacular."
Joining Tongue as part of the directorship team is wife, Donna, taking on the musical director role. She said the youthful actors are very talented and are learning things quickly as showtime approaches.
"This is a fantastic group of kids," she said. "Not only are they a pleasure to work with, but they are good musicians who have learned the music quickly and are exceptionally good at harmonizing."
Add in the colorful sets and costumes, a catchy, contemporary score written by Tony Award-winning Lynn Arrens and Stephen Flaherty, and "Once on This Island" will send the audience off to a tropical paradise where great music and fun action waits.
"Everyone is loving this production," said show co-producer Nancy DeLew. "The dancing, the music, the story, it's been a lot of fun and that will be apparent in the performances."
Tickets for "Once on This Island" are $14 for adults/$10 for students and senior citizens for the 7 p.m. shows, and $10 for the 1 p.m. shows. Tickets are available through Daren's Music Center in Derry or by visiting Kids Coop Theatre online at www.kids-coop-theatre.org.
