For two weekends only, Three Rivers Community Players’ youngest performers are putting on a musical featuring beloved characters and plenty of “Top-Secret Personal Beeswax.”
“Junie B. Jones The Musical Jr.” has 7:30 p.m. performances on Friday, August 9 and 16, and Saturday, August 10 and 17. If you prefer your theatre a little earlier in the day, there will also be 2 p.m. showings Sunday, August 11 and 18. The musical will be performed at 15526 Millard Rd. in Three Rivers. Admission is $13 for students and seniors, and $15 for adults. Tickets can be purchased here.
“When I was younger, Junie B. Jones was my favorite book series,” musical director Disco Metheany said. “As a child with undiagnosed ADHD, I related to her outspokenness, her big feelings, and her unabashed goofiness. My love for the stories and the characters were what inspired me to step into my role as director, something that I have never done before.”
Junie B. Jones (Annabell Bent) is facing more than a few changes. Whether it’s making or keeping friendships, wearing her glasses, or taking part in an intense kickball tournament, Junie’s got her share of excitement in the first grade.
“I want the audience to have a good time. The show will make you laugh, dance, and say a hearty ‘Awwwww,'” Metheany said. “The kids do such an amazing job. I want the audience to be in as much awe of their talent and dedication as I am.”
Metheany’s young cast has been a joy to be around, according to the first time director, who describes them as hilarious, sweet, creative, and resourceful.
“However, they’re still kids, so I’ve had to pull out the ‘teacher voice’ a couple of times. Overall, they are astoundingly impressive as a cast of children with such a large age and development range,” Metheany said.
The musical’s cast includes Aiden, Annabell Bent, Cailyn Brown, Dominik Thibos, Evalie Arnold, Gabriella Frank, Isola Horrocks, Jordan West, Katie Jacobs, Kyle Brandys, Link, Lydia Caseman, Maisie Caseman, Megan Phillips, Miles Hassinger, Penelope Warner, Peyton Proxmire, and Sam Karle.
Beginning Friday, October 11, Three Rivers Community Players will present “Jesus Christ Superstar.” Attending a TRCP show is one of several ways to show support.
“Sponsorships, donations, and/or lending your time and effort to any of the shows, especially during set building, are other ways to help,” Metheany said.
“Junie B. Jones The Musical Jr.” is adapted from Barbara Parks’ books by composer Zina Goodrich and Marcy Heisler, who wrote the book and lyrics. The musical is presented by Three Rivers Community Players through a special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).
Frank Stanko is a staff writer for Watershed Voice.
