Thursday, 21 June, 2007

A group of very committed children and teens has been selected for the family of four-children, who find themselves in the fantastic world of Narnia, when the youngest, Lucy played by Sidney Harrison of St. John, steps through a wardrobe of fur coats. Her older siblings include Peter (Beau Borst), Edmund (Sam Eastes), and Susan (Mindi Popovich) – all of Pratt.

In this terrific adaptation of the novel, the play by Joseph Robinette also has a slew of other interesting and colorful characters. Mr. and Mrs. Beaver, who find themselves aiding the young children, are acted by Joe Schmisseur and Jamie Durler, and these two characters get in the thick of the conflict along with the Centaur (Jesse Mathe) and the Unicorn (Sam Morrison). Trying to do the right thing in saving Lucy from the White Witch, another character -- Tumnus played by Will Shoup -- must do so at great personal cost. Against the above characters are a group loyal to the White Witch: Fenris Ulf, the chief of secret police (Pat Westerhaus), the Dwarf (Audrey Kisner), and a chorus of notable “bad guys.” Additional characters include Father Christmas, played by Bob Schmisseur, in a fun cameo role; the Elf (Anna Stotts); and the White Stag (Amanda Day.)

In addition to the roles above, the cast involves the talents of many others. Wood Nymphs are acted by Brandy Alexander, Courtney Eck, and Jana Kisner. Woodland characters and animals include Cooper Crump, Cole Fincham, Jessica Miracle, Michelle Popovich, Ellen Larson, Taylor Tobin, Corbyn Crump, Kim Hamm, Mariah Hamm, Breanna Tatro, Hannah Tatro, and Lexie Maloney. Finally, a group of mice who help free Aslan are J. Jay Popovich, Sydney Graber, Keirson Maydew, MacKaillyn Willits, Samantha Harrison, Tyler Tobin, and Brianna Hamm. Technical director is Charles Collins. Stage help includes Tricia Shippy and Jeremy Patterson. Director is Rose Beilman.

Cast members mostly live in Pratt, but some of them take time to drive from St. John, Iuka, and Cunningham for rehearsals. All cast have shown dedication in their willingness to spend many nights practicing.

This family-friendly and exciting play will be performed July 13 and 14 at 7:30 PM in Carpenter Auditorium at Pratt Community College. Like the movie, there are some battle scenes which may be frightening to young children. Suggested donations are $4 per person. For more information, contact Rose Beilman at 450-2209 or 546-2449.