TheatreWorks has gone to the dogs...er, ahh... cats!
Summer theatre is in full swing and TheatreWorks students are ready to present a double bill about cats and dogs, Home of Our Own, and Canine Capers.
First up is a tale of homelessness. Home of Our Own tells of a family of kittens who wake up to find themselves at the prison where all the forgotten animals go. A wide assortment of misfit felines, runaway pirate cats, theatrical divas and mischievious mousers all try to explain life on the inside to the newbies. The rebellious free cats encourage the dog council to orchestrate a daring rescue and find the kittens a permanent new home.
This original script was inspired by the horror of finding a cardboard box of abandoned kittens on the highway.
Students age 5-12 years of age are learning theatre skills and confidence-building in the rehearsal process that allows each student to have a personalized role which helps them feel included and special. This philosophy in drama education has resonated for over 20 years in the Comox Valley. In fact there are participating actors whose parents were some of Kymme Patrick’s first students.
The second feature is Canine Capers where dalmatian pups are waiting for their humans to come and claim them for their own. The Canine Council holds regular meetings to discuss the goings-on in doggie town. Cruella Deville is up to her evil schemes as she plots, with her bumbling sidekicks, to kidnap more pups. The Canine Council put their paws together and use their senses, their smarts and their shenanigans to out-wit Cruella and save the young pups.
The cast in each productions is not only learning theatre etiquette but is developing social skills by working as a team and supporting each other just as the cats and dogs in their stories do.
Some students have been introduced to the SPCA and to Kitty Kat pals and have a wonderful empathy for the care and commitment to having a special pet. A donation box for supplies has been started and they can’t wait for delivery day.
Come support these dedicated students in both wonderful adventures for some family fun.
Home of Our Own is being shown July 17 at 7 p.m. and July 18 at 1 p.m. and Canine Capers runs July 24 at 7 p.m. and 25 at 1 p.m.
Both shows at Gagliardi Academy at 1475 Noel Ave. (formerly Brooklyn Elementary). Tickets available at the door. For more information contact theatreworks@shaw.ca or 250 792-2031
TheatreWorks philosophy and founder Kymme Patrick has been recognized for over 20 years. Her dedication to the quality and to ensure each students completes a production/program having gained new skills and feeling good confident in their abilities. These are tales that will have all tails wagging.