3:00 pm | $5 | Advance tickets link: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2561156
The theme is reconciliation and the victory of friendship over racism and bullying in “March in the Parade: A Play with Music for Young Audiences.” Complex subjects that are torturing America are rendered in a clever and funny way for children (recommended for ages 6 to 12 yrs) and the young at heart.
In development for over 7 years, the unveiling of “March in the Parade” will take place at Rosendale Theatre, where it was first workshopped in 2015. Written by Edward Versailles (“The Cat Fanciers”) with music by Harvey Kaiser (The Kansas City Sound), and directed by AnnChris Warren (Missoula Children’s Theater).
Andrea Shaut (Kazz Music Orchestra) is the music director and will accompany the performance. The racially diverse cast is comprised of six charismatic adult actor-singers. Elizabeth Thomas and Thomas Netter have the leading roles of Antoinette and Joey. Antique Mascara, Cheyenne See, Jennelle Liscombe, and Jovan Bradley are the supporting cast; they bring to life a total of sixteen, sometimes very wacky, characters. Thomas Netter recently joined the cast after Louis D’Aprile had to bow out owing to personal conflicts.
“March” tells the story of Joey, a Caucasian boy, and Antoinette, an African-American girl, who are “best friends that ever lived” and they have uproarious adventures together–usually while riding their bicycles. They eagerly anticipate showing off when they ride side by side on their decorated bicycles in the annual Fourth of July Parade. An incident with bullies leads to a rift when Joey makes remarks of a hateful racial nature. Joey honestly recognizes the hurtfulness of his mistake but the process of reconciliation is rocky. But, Antoinette’s clever problem solving makes the Fourth of July Parade an opportunity for healing and fun.
Says playwright Edward Versailles, “Besides helping families address a difficult topic, we want to offer a little refreshment to the soul and a touch of optimism in a time of confusion.”
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The project has come about with financial support from private donors, The Kingston Klock Foundation, and Stewart’s Shops as well as in-kind support from The Boys and Girls Club of Kingston, the Reformed Church of Port Ewen and Rosendale Theatre. Fiscal sponsorship comes through Fractured Atlas and the Stone Ridge Library.