Youth Theater | 2014

By Richard Schultz, Aug. 27, 2014.

Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe

Oct. 10-26

Valley Youth Theatre

This musical is based on the first story in C.S. Lewis’ The Chronicles of Narnia and includes creatures of mythic proportions in a tale of courage and generosity. Several children step through the wardrobe in the spare room and enter the fantastic world of Narnia where the battle for control of the land ensues between the White Witch and the Narnians in Aslan's army.

Suessical the Musical

Oct. 24-Nov. 2

Greasepaint Youtheatre

All of the favorite Dr. Seuss characters come to life on stage including Horton the Elephant, The Cat in the Hat, Gertrude McFuzz, lazy Mayzie, and a little boy with a big imagination named Jojo. This lively musical incorporates colorful characters and transports the audience from the Jungle of Nool to the Circus McGurkus to the invisible world of the Whos. Ultimately, the powers of friendship, loyalty, family, and community are challenged and emerge triumphant.

Children of Eden

Nov. 14-23

ASU Lyric Opera

This popular musical is based on the Book of Genesis. Act I tells the story of Adam and Eve as well as Cain and Able, and Act II portrays Noah’s flood. Known for his music in Wicked, Stephen Schwartz’s score is full of fun and memorable tunes including “Stranger to the Rain.”

The Giver

Nov. 14-23

Fountain Hills Youth Theater

Jonas lives in a perfect world without war, fear or pain. When chosen to be “The Receiver of Memories,” he meets an ancient man named “The Giver.” What follows is an unimaginable journey that asks the question: Will Jonas accept his destiny or will he make a decision that will alter his life – and perhaps millions of others – forever?

This Girl Laughs, This Girl Cries, This Girl Does Nothing

Feb.13-22

ASU MainStage, Lyceum Theatre

A moving, whimsical and comic fairytale, Australian playwright Finegan Kruckemeyer tells the story of three sisters abandoned in the woods by their father. Each sister must struggle to find her own way to survive and thrive in a fantastical world.

Girls Who Wear Glasses

March 14-29

Childsplay

The world premiere of the newest play by Ann Negri is about growing up and navigating friendship, school and parents. But when Mira has to get glasses, it is the last straw. As she deals with old friends who are suddenly only interested in popularity and new friends who want her to be more like them, Mira has to decide who she really wants to be. With the help of her glasses, she starts to see clearly in more ways than one and learns to stand up for herself in this humorous story about fitting in, friendship and frames.

The Three Javelinas

April 19-May 24

Childsplay

Presented in its world premiere, this musical tribute to the Arizona landscape will delight audiences of all ages. A favorite tale gets a southwestern spin in this stage adaptation of Susan Lowell’s picture book (just don’t call them pigs). Josefina Javelina dreams of a career on stage, Juan wants a quiet place to think and, as for José, he just wants someone to listen to his jokes. When a series of misadventures leave them to build houses in the desert, they catch the attention of a hungry coyote.