Young actors to stage ‘My Son, Pinocchio Jr.’ 

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The young actors of the Junior Civic program will provide a new take on the classical Disney story when they perform “My Son, Pinocchio Jr.” (Submitted photo by Zach Rosing)
The young actors of the Junior Civic program will provide a new take on the classical Disney story when they perform “My Son, Pinocchio Jr.” (Submitted photo by Zach Rosing)

By Jessica Fox

“What does a parent have to do to be a good parent?”

That’s the question that Geppetto will have to answer in the Junior Civic’s production of “My Son, Pinocchio Jr.”

The performance offers an alternate perspective on the classic Disney fairy tale about a puppet hoping to become a real boy.

According to the performance’s director, Brent Marty, the musical is a twist on the original “Pinocchio.” This musical is told from the point of view of Geppetto, Pinocchio’s father.

The musical will include a student ensemble and a live orchestra.

The Junior Civic program gives children ages 7 to 14 the opportunity to perform in a professional setting. Marty said they come away from the experience seeing the whole production professionally put together.

The “My Son, Pinocchio Jr.” musical is just a part of the education Civic offers to students at the Tarkington Theatre.

The Tarkington offers classes as well as a vocal camp during the summer months.

Vocal Director Trevor Fanning began directing the theater’s chorus in 2007. His job is to help the students memorize lyrics and work the songs into the performance. Instead of working the songs and the script in different segments, the students practice their vocals during each performance.

This musical will include both traditional and new music. Traditional songs include Disney’s “When You Wish Upon a Star” and “I’ve Got No Strings.”

Stephen Schwartz, the composer and lyricist of the musical “Wicked,” wrote the remainder of the show’s music.

The students are still in the process of putting everything together, but the directors know it will all come together in the end. There are no small parts in this musical, and everyone’s roles are equally important to the production.

According to Marty, “Watching the students learn the process of producing a play (is the best part of directing).”

The students singing in the ensemble are just as excited for the performance as the director. While most the students have had previous acting experience, each of the students still remains enthusiastic for their chance in the spotlight.

“It will be a great show with talented directors, choreography, kids and amazing songs,” said 11-year-old Ethan Gold, a student at West Clay Elementary.

Ethan has been in two other Junior Civic productions including “Jack and the Beanstalk” and “Once Upon a Shoe.”

The rest of the students seem to share in his enthusiasm.

“It’s going to be a great show. It’s funny and entertaining,” said 13-year-old Megan McCabe, a student at Noblesville East Middle School.

“I really love musical theatre… it’s fun to watch and it’s cool,” said 11-year-old Amelie Zirnheld, a student at Schneider Academy.

“My Son, Pinocchio Jr.” ● A production by the Junior Civic program ● 7 p.m. June 13; 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. June 14; and 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. June 16 through June 18 ● The Tarkington Theatre at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel ● Tickets start at $15 ● For more information call 923-4597 or visit www.thecenterfortheperformingarts.org


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