Howick Children’s and Youth Theatre (HCYT) is gearing up to stage a range of productions this year including some well-known favourites.
The theatre’s senior tutor, Michelle Field, says it’s excited to be able to tread the boards again after a disruptive couple of years with Covid-19 affecting the way it operates and its ability perform to large audiences.
Field says the theatre has a “fantastic” line-up of shows planned for this year which will cater to a wide range of people.
“The children in our first shows for ages eight-18 have been working extremely hard during rehearsals to put them together and are creating some wonderful characters.
“It’s fantastic to see their enthusiasm and creativity bringing these shows to life.
“Alongside rehearsals our behind-the-scenes teams are fitting costumes, sourcing props, and sound and lighting crews are being organised.
“We’re definitely ready to hit the ground running.”
The first three shows the theatre is staging this year are Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist, as adapted by Jeremy Brock; On the Razzle by Tom Stoppard; and Snow White and the Dwarfs of the Black Forest by June Walker Rogers.
They’ll be performed at Harlequin Musical Theatre in Howick from May 25-28.
Field says Oliver Twist is set in early 19th century England.
It tells the story of Oliver, who spends the first nine years of his life in a home for young orphans before being transferred to a workhouse for adults.
“After the other boys bully Oliver into asking for more gruel, he’s apprenticed to a local undertaker,” Field says.
“A desperate Oliver runs away and travels toward London where he’s taken care of by a gang of thieves, but refuses to participate in their thievery.
“An upper-class family take him in, but the thieves and a mysterious character continue to pursue him.”
Field says On the Razzle will be performed by the HCYT’s Offstage Youth Theatre students.
“It’s a hilarious show consisting of slapstick shenanigans, mistaken identities, and romantic complications.
“This show is a fantastic opportunity for our oldest, most experienced students to practice their comedic timing and fast wit.”
Field says Snow White and the Dwarfs of the Black Forest is being performed by some of the theatre’s younger students, who are excited to showcase their skills on stage.
“It features many fairy tale characters audiences know and love.
“Snow White, the seven funny little men, an absent-minded king and his new wife who is part queen, part witch, as well as many of Snow White’s animal friends.”
In September the theatre will stage a production of Beauty and the Beast by Vera Morris, along with Children of the Poor by Mervyn Thompson, Field says.
“While we’re yet to begin rehearsals for these shows, our classes are busy and the students are honing all their theatrical skills in preparation.”
For more information, phone 537 4943 or go online to www.hcyt.org.nz.
