Little Theatre to present ‘Tuck Everlasting’ musical
Chester Boffo, left, Jaxon Burdette and Zachary Rusk rehearse a scene from the upcoming musical “Tuck Everlasting.”
The novel, “Tuck Everlasting,” will be brought to life in a musical adaptation when The Little Theatre of Tuscarawas County presents its winter production Feb. 16 through March 3. Based on the children’s book by Natalie Babbitt, the music is by Chris Miller, lyrics by Nathan Tysen, and book by Claudia Shear and Tim Federle.
Director Joe Compton said, “The musical tells the story of 11-year-old Winnie Foster as she ventures beyond her white picket fence and becomes unexpectedly entwined with the Tuck family. When Winnie learns of the magic behind the Tuck’s unending youth, she must fight to protect their secret from those who would do anything for a chance at eternal life. As her adventure unfolds, Winnie faces an extraordinary choice: return to her life or continue with the Tucks on their infinite journey.”
“Tuck Everlasting” takes place in the year 1881. Most of the plot happens over the course of several days in August in the small, isolated town of Treegap, which is located in the Adirondack Mountains. Winnie lives with her overbearing parents and grandmother, making decisions more difficult for her.
Compton and Assistant Director Josie McCutcheon’s staff includes Micah Carrick, music director; Jennica Cochran, choreographer; Mary Maxwell, costumes; Daelyn Carpenter, production stage manager; and Matt Spies, producer.
The cast, led by Allegra McMillan as Winnie Foster, includes Jaxson Burdette, Jesse Tuck; April Bonvechio, Mae Tuck; Chester Boffo, Miles Tuck; Casey McMillan, Angus Tuck; Zachary Rusk, The Man in the Yellow Suit; Jared Sparks-Lee, Constable Joe; Noah Beachy, Hugo; Chelsea Rhodes, Nana; and Kathy Bergstrom, Mother.
Those in the ensemble of townspeople and carnival-goers are Caitlin Allshouse, Natalie Armstrong, Allie Bonvechio, Francis Brogan, Therese Burnham, Garret Davis, Dylan Dunn, Lexie Fitzgereld, Emily Flood, Bethany Hans, Haley Kimble, Allison Linkenhoker, Blake Mangon, Kaylyn Marlatt, Shavonne McMillan, Lydia Miller, Rylan Pettay and Abigail Zeedyk.
Performances will run Fridays and Saturdays on Feb. 16, 17, 23 and 24 and March 1 and 2 at 7:30 p.m. with Sunday matinees on Feb. 18 and 25 and March 3 at 2:30 p.m.
Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students and may be purchased online at www.thelittletheatreonline.org or by calling the Kent State Tuscarawas Performing Arts Center at 330-308-6400 during regular business hours.
“Tuck Everlasting” is sponsored by Wayne Garage Door along with season sponsor the Fraternal Order of the Eagles #515 in Dover.
The Little Theatre is located at 466 Carrie Ave. NW in New Philadelphia.